Ever wondered if there’s a difference between face wash, face cleanser, and soap?
Spoiler alert: There is, and it might just be the key to unlocking your best skin yet! Let’s dive into what makes each one unique and why choosing the right product for your skin type can make all the difference.
What Is Soap?
Soap is the classic go-to for cleaning just about everything, but when it comes to your face, it might not be the best choice. Soap is made through a process called saponification, where fats and oils are mixed with lye. While this works wonders for washing hands and bodies, soap typically has a high pH level—around 9 or 10—compared to your skin’s natural pH of about 5.
What does this mean? Using soap on your face can disrupt your skin’s natural barrier, leaving it dry and irritated. Soap doesn’t discriminate; it attaches to everything, stripping away the good oils along with the bad. It can leave your skin feeling dehydrated.
So, let’s pinky promise to keep soap for the rest of your body and find something gentler for your face, okay?
What’s a Face Wash?
Face wash is like the big sister of soap—it’s more sophisticated but can still be a bit harsh depending on your skin type.
Face washes are typically water-based and often foam up when you use them. They contain detergents that effectively clean your face, which can be great for oily skin. But if your skin is dry, sensitive, or prone to irritation, face washes might leave you feeling stripped and uncomfortable.
So make sure you get one that is gentle and designed for sensitive skin. For a gentle yet effective cleanse, our Papaya Foaming Cleanser is a must-try. It’s loaded with papaya enzymes, which naturally exfoliates and soothes your skin, making it perfect for your daily routine. Plus, it’s gentle enough for all skin types, leaving you with a glowing, fresh face.
If you’ve got oily skin, especially with acne, a face wash with salicylic acid can work wonders. But for those with dry or sensitive skin, face washes might not be your best friend. Instead, let’s introduce you to something even better: a face cleanser.
What Is a Face Cleanser?
Face cleansers are like the gentle giants of the skincare world. They’re designed to clean your skin without being harsh or stripping away all the moisture. Unlike face washes, cleansers are usually not detergent-based, making them much more nourishing for your skin.
Cleansers come in various forms—creams, balms, milks, and even oils—so you can pick the texture that feels right for you.
If you are ready to try a deep cleaning oil as a cleanser, ours is a powerful yet gentle formula that turns milky when you add water. This cleanser removes impurities, leaving your skin feeling revitalized and looking luminous.
Why Your Skin Type Matters
Your skin type should always be your guide when choosing a face cleanser. The wrong product can do more harm than good, so let’s make sure you’re using something that works with, not against, your skin.
Dry/Sensitive Skin:
If you’ve got dry or sensitive skin, you want something that cleans without stripping. The Papaya Foaming Cleanser is gentle, hydrating, and won’t mess with your skin’s natural barrier.
For those days when you need a little extra TLC, the Brightening Cleansing Water is perfect—no rinsing required!
Oily/Acne-Prone Skin:
For those with oily or acne-prone skin, our Clinical Strength MicroDerm Gel Cleanser is your new best friend. It’s got professional-grade exfoliants that help smooth your skin and keep breakouts at bay.
Or if you need something a little gentler pair your favorite cleanser with our Exfoliating Facial Scrubber to really take your routine to the next level.
Take Your Routine Up a Notch with the Exfoliating Facial Scrubber
Speaking of the Exfoliating Facial Scrubber, this handy little tool is a game-changer. It’s non-abrasive, super easy to use, and perfect for all skin types—even sensitive and acne-prone skin. Just apply your favorite cleanser, gently massage with the scrubber, and rinse. Instantly your cleanser works better and it’s like giving your face a mini spa day, every day!
What it all means to you
Now that you know the difference between soap, face wash, and face cleanser, it’s time to choose the best one for you.
Remember, your skincare routine doesn’t have to be complicated to be effective. With the right products—like the Papaya Foaming Cleanser, Clinical Strength MicroDerm Gel Cleanser, and Exfoliating Facial Scrubber—you’re on your way to healthier, happier skin.
Ready to make the switch? Check out our full collection at Flora Skinlab and find the perfect products to suit your skin type. Your face will thank you!
Xoxo,
Julie