are cleanser and face wash same - #27600
I am kinda confused about this whole skincare thing! I've been using a face wash for a while now, but my friend brought up the idea of a cleanser, and I started wonderin’ are cleanser and face wash same? Like, do I really need both? I mean, my skin has been feeling weird lately. It gets oily in the afternoon but kinda dry in the morning, like what’s going on? I used to think the face wash was enough to clean off the dirt and makeup, but maybe it's not doing the job? I tried this new face wash with tea tree oil, and it helped a little but still felt like my skin was tight after. Ugh! I heard cleansers can be like, more gentle and stuff. I've seen some people swear by them, but then again, are they really that different from face wash, or are we just overcomplicating things? Should I pick up a cleanser and give that a shot too? I guess I’m just scared of cluttering my routine. Are cleanser and face wash same or what? Do enlighten me!
100% Anonymously
No sign-up needed.

Doctors' responses
Cleansers and face washes might seem like they’re the same, but they do have some differences in functionality and how they can affect your skin. Both products are designed to remove dirt, oil, and impurities from your skin, albeit in slightly different ways. A face wash generally tends to be foaming, and it offers a deeper clean, making it effective for removing daily dirt and oil, especially if you have oily or combination skin. It can sometimes leave your skin feeling tight due to the removal of natural oils, which you’ve described. Cleansers, on the other hand, come in various textures like gels, creams, or oils, and they’re often formulated to be gentler. They can remove impurities without stripping the skin of its natural moisture, making them suitable for a wide range of skin types, including sensitive or dry skin.
If you’ve been feeling like your skin is tight or if you’re dealing with dryness in the morning and oiliness later in the day, it might indicate that the face wash you’re using is too harsh or isn’t well-suited for your specific skin needs. The tea tree oil in your current face wash is beneficial for its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, but it can also be quite drying for some individuals. This could be contributing to that tight feeling you described.
So should you consider adding a cleanser into your routine? It might be worth trying a gentle, hydrating cleanser to see if it balances out your skin throughout the day. You could also explore a double-cleansing routine, where you use an oil-based cleanser first to remove makeup and sunscreen, followed by your current face wash. This approach can be particularly effective if you use makeup regularly or have been exposed to environmental pollutants. Make sure to listen to your skin and adjust your routine gradually, paying attention to how it responds. If symptoms persist or worsen, consider consulting with a dermatologist to tailor a skincare regimen specific to your needs.
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.