Different Types of Facial Cleansers (And How to Choose the Right One)

Introduction

A good cleanser is the foundation of every great skincare routine. But with so many types out there—gel, cream, oil, foam, micellar—how do you know which one your skin actually needs?

Cleansing isn’t just about removing makeup or dirt. It’s about resetting your skin without stripping it. In this post, I’ll break down the different types of facial cleansers, what they do, and who they’re best for—so you can start your skincare routine right.

The Main Types of Facial Cleansers

1. Gel Cleansers

Texture: Lightweight, clear, and refreshing

Best for: Oily, acne-prone, or combination skin

Why use it:

• Deep cleans without over-drying

• Removes excess oil and sweat

• Often contains exfoliating or antibacterial ingredients

💡 Look for ingredients like salicylic acid or tea tree if you’re breakout-prone

2. Cream Cleansers

Texture: Thick, creamy, and soothing

Best for: Dry, sensitive, or mature skin

Why use it:

• Gently cleanses without stripping natural oils

• Calms and hydrates while cleansing

• Leaves a soft, moisturised feel

  
  

💡 Ideal for morning routines or cooler weather.

3. Foam Cleansers

Texture: Starts as cream or gel, foams up with water

Best for: Normal to oily skin

Why use it:

• Thoroughly removes oil, sweat, and light makeup

• Leaves skin feeling squeaky clean

• Great for humid climates

  
  

💡 Avoid if you have dry or very sensitive skin—it can be too stripping.

4. Oil Cleansers

Texture: Lightweight to rich oils that melt makeup and debris

Best for: All skin types (even oily, surprisingly)

Why use it:

• Breaks down makeup, sunscreen, and excess sebum

• Balances the skin’s oil production

• Ideal as the first step in a double cleanse

  
  

💡 Use dry hands and apply to dry face. Rinse or wipe with a warm cloth.

5. Balm Cleansers

Texture: Solid balm that melts into oil on contact

Best for: Dry, sensitive, or makeup-wearing skin

Why use it:

• Dissolves stubborn makeup and sunscreen

• Nourishes and softens the skin

• Great for travel or winter routines

  
  

💡 Follow with a water-based cleanser for a true double cleanse.

6. Micellar Water

Texture: Water-light, with suspended cleansing molecules

Best for: Sensitive, minimal makeup, or on-the-go cleansing

Why use it:

• No rinsing needed

• Gently removes surface dirt and makeup

• Ideal for mornings, travel, or skin that can’t tolerate harsh cleansers

  
  

💡 Not always enough as your only cleanser—best paired with something deeper at night.

7. Powder Cleansers

Texture: Dry powder that activates with water

Best for: All skin types—especially combo and oily

Why use it:

• Customisable strength (based on how much water you add)

• Often contains gentle exfoliants

• Great for travel and minimalist routines

  
  

💡 Perfect for those who want a gentle cleanse with a polished feel.

How to Choose the Right Cleanser

Skin Type	Best Cleanser Types
Dry or Mature	Cream, Balm, Oil
Oily or Acne-Prone	Gel, Foam, Powder, Oil (yes, oil!)
Sensitive	Micellar, Cream, Oil, Balm
Combination	Gel in T-zone, Cream or Balm on cheeks
Minimalist/Busy	Micellar Water, Powder, or Oil Cleanser

Final Thoughts

Cleansing is more than just a step—it’s a ritual. When you use the right cleanser for your skin type and lifestyle, everything else in your routine works better. Clean skin is calm skin. Choose with intention, and your glow will follow.

Love & Artistry, Philippa