How to Choose a Gel Cleanser - Buying Guide
Here are some key points to consider:
- Choose a formulation based on your skin type.
- Opt for natural ingredients for gentle and soothing cleansing.
- Pick cleansers with additional skin benefits.
For more detailed information, read through our buying guide below.
1
Choose a Formulation Based on Your Skin Type
Your skin may have certain needs that can only be addressed by a specific type of cleanser. With that in mind, always remember to choose a cleanser with a formulation that suits your skin type. Below are some factors to consider when choosing a gel cleanser.
Consider Pore-Refining Cleansers if You Have Oily Skin
People with oily skin struggle with excess sebum that can clog their pores and may even cause acne breakouts. To avoid this, choose cleansers that contain alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) like lactic and glycolic acid.
Salicylic acid, a beta hydroxy acid (BHA), also works to diminish enlarged pores, although it can strip away more moisture than it should and can be unsafe for pregnant women. Some cleansers may also contain niacinamide, a form of vitamin B3, which is another ingredient that helps minimize the appearance of pores.
Dermatologist
Dr. Jarische Lao-Ang
Gel cleansers are known to be used for deep cleansing. It can be beneficial for oily skin as a face wash. They can remove gunk and oil from the skin effectively. Active ingredients like AHA (glycolic, lactic acid) and BHA (salicylic acid) can control oil.
The frequency of using gel cleansers with these actives depends on the formulation and also on how the skin feels after. For beginners, washing once daily with these actives in gel cleansers is advisable. Watch out for redness and skin tightness after using. If these signs appear, then the cleanser may be too drying on your skin.
For Dry Skin, Look for Hydrating Ingredients
Some cleansers may remove too much oil from the skin, depriving it of its much-needed moisture. This is bad news for those with skin that already suffers from dryness. In that case, it is recommended to choose cleansers that contain hydrating ingredients like ceramides and hyaluronic acid. Botanical ingredients such as almond oil and green tea extracts also provide moisture to treat dry skin.
Dermatologist
Dr. Jarische Lao-Ang
For people with dry skin, gel cleansers with moisturizing ingredients like glycerin, ceramides, and hyaluronic acid are helpful. Avoid foam cleansers, as these can make skin drier. It is also recommended to apply moisturizing cream after cleansing to seal in the moisture.
For Combination Skin, Select pH-Balanced Formulas
Combination skin is characterized by having skin that is oily in some areas, especially in the T-zone, and dry or normal in others. If you have this skin type, opt for gel cleansers with pH-balanced formulas. These can helpstabilize your skin’s acidity and alkaline levels, as too much alkaline can cause your skin to look red and flaky due to dryness, while too much acidity can cause inflamed skin.
Choosing a pH-balanced formula aids in helping the skin form its acid mantle barrier, which keeps moisture in and bacteria out. Thus, pH-balanced products remove excess oil that can attract bacteria without stripping away your skin’s much-needed moisture.
Dermatologist
Dr. Jarische Lao-Ang
Combination skin type will benefit from gel cleansers because these are not too drying (like foam cleansers) and not too heavy (like cream-based cleansers). When you have combination skin, achieving balance is important. In the morning, mild cleansers can be used. In the evening, cleansers with AHA or BHA may be used to remove the gunk throughout the day.
Steer Clear of Cleansers With SLS and Fragrances if You Have Sensitive Skin
Sulfates are surfactants that are used as a cleansing agent in many skincare products. Some cleansers have sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS), which is effective for creating a satisfying lather. However, this ingredientcan remove too much oil, which dries out the skin even further. It can also cause redness and irritation, especially in people with sensitive skin.
Similarly, be careful of products that contain fragrances, especially synthetic ones. They are often made of petroleum-based ingredients, which may cause allergic reactions, skin irritation, dermatitis, and even asthma.
Dermatologist
Dr. Jarische Lao-Ang
For people with sensitive skin, avoiding harsh cleansers with irritation potential, such as those with fragrances, is better. As for sulfates in cleansers, they are not entirely harmful since they help lather and are a degreaser that helps wash off sebum. There are now newer formulations that make sodium lauryl sulfate to be milder.
2
Opt for Natural Ingredients for Gentle and Soothing Cleansing
Many skincare products use ingredients that can be extracted in nature because they offermultiple benefitsfor the skin. Plant-based ingredients such as green tea, quinoa, micro-alga, and tea tree extracts gently cleanse the skin and can even soothe skin irritation. Furthermore, they commonly have antioxidants that can protect the skin from environmental stressors.
Dermatologist
Dr. Jarische Lao-Ang
Natural ingredients may be preferred by some. But remember that not all natural-grade skincare is safe for everyone. Just like with any skincare product, it is better to patch-test first before using. For cleansers, I usually use it on my neck or hand area first to test it out and check for any signs of irritation before using it on my face.
3
Pick Cleansers With Additional Skin Benefits
Taking good care of your skin can sometimes be a splurge, so it’s better to pick products that offer other benefits to give you your money's worth. For instance, when purchasing a cleanser, you may opt for those which also helpclear acne scars and keep skin hydrated.
Hyaluronic acid is one example of an ingredient that offers benefits beyond cleansing. It boosts collagen production for supple skin and can help reduce dark spots, fine lines, and wrinkles. Another one is glycerin, which helps relieve minor irritation and boosts moisture. Meanwhile, vitamin C and plant extracts like pomegranate and calendula help protect skin from free radicals.
Dermatologist
Dr. Jarische Lao-Ang
With the advancement in formulations, cleansers are now incorporated with other ingredients to address certain skin concerns. Some have brightening ingredients such as niacinamide and licorice. Others may contain exfoliants (AHA, BHA, PHA). It is mportant to know the skin concern and skin type for you to choose the proper cleanser.
