How to Choose the Right Cleanser for Your Skin Type
Cleansing is the first step to every skincare routine, and possibly the most underrated. It’s where everything begins. If your cleanser is too harsh, rich, or just not right for your skin, you’re sabotaging your glow before the rest of your products even touch your face. You want a cleanser that removes dirt, excess oil, makeup, and pollution without leaving your skin dry, tight, and irritated.
Know Your Skin Type First
Before you even browse the skincare aisles, make sure you're familiar with your skin type.
Oily: shiny all over or mainly the T-zone; may break out easily
Dry: feels tight & flaky after cleansing; prone to dullness
Combination: oily T-zone with dry or normal cheeks
Sensitive: reacts easily, flushes red, stings with certain products
Normal: balanced; no major dryness or oil
Best Cleanser by Skin Type
Oily & Acne Prone Skin
Formulas: Gel, Foams, & Clay-Based
Ingredients: Salicylic Acid, Tea Tree Oil, Niacinamide, Charcoal
Why: Control oil, Unclog Pores, Reduce Acne-Causing Bacteria
Pro Tip: Don’t over-cleanse! Stripping your skin can cause it to produce more oil to compensate.
Dry & Dehydrated Skin
Formulas: Cream, Milk, Oil, or Balm
Ingredients: Hyaluronic Acid, Ceramides, Glycerin, Squalane
Why: These help replenish moisture & support the skin’s natural barrier.
Pro Tip: If your skin feels tight after cleansing, your cleanser is too harsh. Try doubl cleansing with oil followed by a cream.
Sensitive & Reactive Skin
Formulas: Fragrance-Free, Hypoallergenic, Minimal-Ingredient
Ingredients: Aloe, Oatmeal, Chamomile, Centella Asiatica
Avoid: Fragrance, Essential Oils, Alcohol, & Strong Acids
Why: Minimize irritation while cleansing to start your skin off strong.
Pro Tip: Patch test new cleaners on your jawline before full use.
Combination Skin
Formulas: Gentle Gel, Lotion
Why: Balance oil control in the T-zone while keeping drier spots comfortable.
Pro Tip: If you need, use a multi-cleanse depending on what areas of your face are dry or oily. Use a foaming cleanser for oily areas and a creamy one for dry zones.
Normal Skin
Formulas: Light Gel or Cream
Why: Your goal is to maintain balance without disrupting it.
Pro Tip: Don’t overdo actives. Stick to gentle formulas that keep your skin happy.
Cleanser Considerations
Do you wear makeup or SPF daily? A cleansing oil or balm helps break everything down before your water-based cleanser finishes the job.
Are you dealing with acne or breakouts? A medicated cleanser with salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide may help, but remember to follow up with hydrating products.
Is your cleanser stinging or burning? That’s a sign it’s not the one for you.
The cleaner you choose can either support your skincare goals or work against them. When your skin is clean, but not stripped, the rest of your routine absorbs better and performs more effectively. Next time you restock, treat your cleanser like what it is: the foundation of your entire routine.
