Why I recommend a creamy cleanser 90% of the time

Clean and Healthy

Cleansing is one of the most essential steps in maintaining healthy skin. With so many cleanser options available, from foaming washes to gel cleansers, it can be challenging to know what’s best for your skin. As an esthetician with a focus on holistic skincare, I’ve found that most of the time a creamy cleanser will provide the most balanced and effective approach for maintaining and supporting skin health regardless of skin type.

Understanding Skin Anatomy and the Role of Cleansing

Your skin’s outermost layer, the stratum corneum, serves as a protective barrier against environmental damage and moisture loss. This barrier is made up of lipids and dead skin cells. Together they form a barrier that keeps essential hydration in the deeper layer of your skin and prevents germs and other nasties from entering the body through the skin. Harsh or overly active cleansers can strip away the essential lipids compromising the function of this barrier which can lead to dryness, irritation and aging.

Generally creamy cleansers are formulated to gently cleanse without disrupting this delicate balance using emollient-rich ingredients like glycerin, plant oils, or fatty alcohols to dissolve impurities while preserving the skin’s natural oils. The result is clean skin that feels soft and nourished and not tight and dry.

Why Creamy Cleansers Work for Most Skin Types

Dry or Sensitive Skin: Creamy cleansers often include gentle, hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid or aloe vera and are typically free of harsh surfactants. For dry or sensitive skin types with a compromised barrier, these cleansers support the healing process while helping to maintain the skin's essential protective function.

Combination Skin: If you have areas prone to oiliness, your skin still benefits from gentle cleansing. A creamy cleanser can balance hydration across your face, leaving it refreshed without over-drying.

Mature Skin: As we age, our skin produces less sebum, which can lead to increased dryness. A creamy cleanser helps to replenish moisture while removing impurities, supporting skin function and youthfulness.

Oily or Acne-Prone Skin: While counterintuitive, excessive cleansing and removing all the oil from your skin can create a rebound effect that leads to even more oil production. A creamy cleanser will remove dirt and excess sebum without over stripping and triggering this cycle.

When to Reach for a Gel or Foaming Cleanser

While I believe a creamy cleanser is pretty much for everybody, there are times when a gel or foam cleanser has its place. These formulas often include active ingredients like glycolic acid which can be effective for treating active breakouts, shedding excess dead skin buildup and removing significant dirt.

However, these products should be used strategically, and I like to think of them as spot treatments or short-term solutions rather than daily staples. Overuse of active ingredients can lead to irritation, sensitivity, and a disrupted skin barrier.

A Simple Approach

For those seeking a minimalist but effective routine, a creamy cleanser aligns for almost everyone. Their multipurpose nature means you are less likely to need additional products to rehydrate or soothe your skin after cleansing. When choosing a creamy cleanser, look for formulas that are free of synthetic fragrances and instead contain ingredients like chamomile extract and jojoba oil which are wonderful additions that support skin health.

Final Thoughts

Cleansing is the cornerstone of a good skincare ritual, and it doesn’t have to be complicated. By choosing a creamy cleanser, you’re giving your skin the gentle care it needs to thrive while setting a solid foundation for the rest of your regimen. Your skin is a living, breathing organ. Treat it with kindness for health and resilience. If you’re unsure where to start, consider consulting with a skincare professional to find the best products for your unique needs.