what's the difference between cleanser and face wash - #27372
I am super confused about skincare lately! A few weeks ago, I started using this new product my friend recommended, but I keep asking myself, what's the difference between cleanser and face wash? Like, are they the same thing? I honestly thought they were interchangeable until I started seeing all these videos online where people are like, “you need a proper cleanser for your skin type!” I’m like, huh? My face has been breaking out lately, mostly on my chin and forehead, and I’m wondering if I've been using the wrong product. I usually just splash water and use whatever face wash is in the shower, thinking that was good enough. The other day I tried a gel cleanser after hearing it's gentler, but now I'm like, did I even need that if I already had a face wash? My skin feels sooo weird now, not sure if it’s too dry or just...different. Seriously, what's the difference between cleanser and face wash? Do I need to switch everything up? Can I just stick with one? And what if I wanna double cleanse? Would a cleanser be better than a face wash in that case? Just trying to make sense of it all!
100% Anonymously
No sign-up needed.

Doctors' responses
Cleanser and face wash are terms that can sometimes be used interchangeably, but they usually serve slightly different purposes in the skincare world. A cleanser is typically designed to remove dirt, oil, and other debris from the skin in a gentler way, which can make it ideal for everyday use, especially for those with sensitive skin. They come in various forms like cream, oil, gel, or even water-based formulas and are meant to cleanse without stripping your skin of its natural oils. On the other hand, a face wash is often used to refer to a more foamy product that can be a bit more rigorous, targeting impurities and excess oil buildup, which might suit someone with oily or acne-prone skin better. However, since you mentioned your skin is breaking out on your chin and forehead, it’s important to check if you’re using products suitable for your skin type. If your skin starts feeling dry or uncomfortable after switching products, it could be a reaction to the formulation being either too harsh or not suitable for your skin’s current state. As for double-cleansing, it’s a method where you first use an oil-based cleanser to dissolve makeup and oils followed by a water-based face wash to clean deeper residues. This method can be great if you wear makeup or heavy sunscreen, but make sure neither product is over-drying. You mentioned trying a gel cleanser, which can be a good choice if your skin tends to be combination, as they balance cleansing without over-drying. If you’re concerned about the products causing breakouts, try switching one at a time and see how your skin reacts, avoiding anything with fragrances or harsh chemicals until you find what works best. Always patch test new products, though, and if the breakouts persist, it might be worth seeing a dermatologist to rule out any underlying issues.
100% Anonymously
Get expert answers anytime, completely confidential. No sign-up needed.
About our doctors
Only qualified doctors who have confirmed the availability of medical education and other certificates of medical practice consult on our service. You can check the qualification confirmation in the doctor's profile.