Our Guide To The 4 Different Types Of Cleansers

The highlight of any long day? Easy. Washing off our makeup as soon as we get home. Yes, we know what you’re thinking, but unstrapping the bra is a close second.

And as cleansing is the first (and therefore arguably most important) step in any skin care routine, it’s crucial to understand the varying benefits of each different formula. 

Whether you love a supermarket steal or are treating yourself to a luxe splurge, you’ll always be faced with the impossible task of selecting from an overwhelming amount of options. 

So, from soothing creams to oil-banishing foams, here’s a breakdown of all the cleansing options on offer and our favourites within each category.

The four different types of cleansers…

#1 Oil cleanser

Once you’ve made the switch to a cleansing oil, you’ll be addicted to the sparkling clean and deeply nourished feeling. The laws of attraction mean there’s nothing better than oil to draw out excess sebum and surface residue, including waterproof mascara. Just apply it with dry hands to a dry face before washing away with water. Each of the below cleansing oils suit all skin types and even shine-prone skin will be left with gorgeously oil-free feel.

Best suited for: Most skin types, particularly dry.

Skin Physics Prebiotic Multi Cleansing Oil

We say: Enriched with rosemary extracts, antioxidants and a unique bio lipid complex, this cleansing oil works to smooth out the skin, protect the barrier function and slow down the premature ageing process.

Want to know more? Read Skin Physics Prebiotic Multi Cleansing Oil reviews here…

$39.95 at Skin Physics

CeraVe Hydrating Foaming Oil Cleanser 

We say: Enriched with three essential ceramides, this cleansing oil will gently melt makeup and dirt away while helping to encourage skin regeneration. Plus, the inclusion of squalane oil will replenish the skin without leaving you feeling sticky or greasy.

You say: “It has quickly become a staple in my skincare routine. I have dry, sensitive skin that is prone to breakouts, and this cleanser has been a game changer for me. It removes all of my makeup, including stubborn eye makeup, without stripping my skin of its natural oils. I noticed a significant improvement in the texture and hydration of my skin after just a few uses.” – yamillefr1

Want to know more? Read CeraVe Hydrating Foaming Oil Cleanser reviews here…

$23.99 at Adore Beauty

#2 Foam cleanser

Foaming cleaners get a bad rap for stripping the skin, but if you choose a gentle formula, you can’t beat bubbles for a deep down, zinging clean.

Best suited for: oily, teenage or acne-prone skin

La Roche-Posay Micellar Foaming Cleanser

We say: Not into nasties? Then this lathering formula is for you. It’s free from fragrances, colourants, alcohol, parabens and soaps. The cleanser respects your skin’s natural pH balance while also removing makeup and ridding your skin of impurities. 

You say: “A little goes a long way, it lathers well, and one bottle lasts a couple of months. I have sensitive skin and it is gentle and doesn’t dry my skin out. It also removes eye make up easily without stinging. It is affordable but also regularly goes on sale in Priceline and Chemist Warehouse so I usually find it half price and will stock up when I find it discounted.” – Courtneyroche

Want to know more? Read La Roche-Posay Micellar Foaming Cleanser reviews here…

$25.49 at Chemist Warehouse

Cetaphil Oily Skin Cleanser

We say: Models get spots too, you know. Or they would if they didn’t have this little baby on rotation. Cetaphil has been a backstage beauty secret forever and there’s no question as to why. This low-foam formula melts away oil, dirt and heavy makeup residue on the spot.

You say: “This is my go to cleanser. It never lets me down . Always clears my skin right up and helps prevents breakouts from worsening. It is gentle to use daily on sensitive skin without causing any irritation or dryness. It leaves my skin feeling clean and removes makeup thoroughly.” – Brownskingirl

Want to know more? Read Cetaphil Oily Skin Cleanser reviews here…

$17.99 at Chemist Warehouse

#3 Gel cleanser

Often formulated with BHA or AHAs, gel cleansers provide an intense clean that is suitable for acne-prone skin. Sitting in between a foam and a cream cleanser, gels offer an ideal formula for normal to oily complexions.

Best suited for: Oily and combination skin 

Kiehl’s Blue Herbal Gel Cleanser

We say: Made for acne-prone skin, this gel cleanser contains salicylic acid to decongest, ginger root extract to absorb excess oil and cinnamon bark extract for its antibacterial properties. You can blast blemishes and remove dirt, residue and oil all with this one oil-free, non-drying formula.

You say: ” I like to leave mine on for a few minutes to let in soak in before washing it off. Afterwards my skin feel super clean and fresh, love it!” – bettina44

Want to know more? Read Kiehl’s Blue Herbal Gel Cleanser reviews here…

$56 at Adore Beauty

SkinCeuticals Simply Clean

We say: Clarify skin, smooth out rough textures and remove stubborn makeup. Infused with chamomile and aloe, this soothing cleanser will calm irritated skin as it cleans. One better? Use alongside the FOREO LUNA 2 Sensitive Skin ($369, Adore Beauty) and make sure no pore goes unclogged and no makeup residue gets left behind.

Want to know more? Read SkinCeuticals Simply Clean reviews here…

$60.30 at Better Value Pharmacy

#4 Cream cleanser

The most moisturising of all cleansing varieties, cream cleansers offer multi-purpose benefits and leave the skin refreshed and deeply clean. Otherwise labelled as a lotion or a milk, these formulas are typically well tolerated by sensitive, dry and mature skin types. 

Best suited for: Sensitive and dry skin 

Trilogy Cream Cleanser

We say: Packed full of antioxidants and rosehip oil, this super creamy number is like a relaxing spa treatment that just happens to leave your skin crystal clear.

You say: “I have sensitive skin and this is gentle and leaves my face feeling clean and soft. I use it with my battery cleansing brush and I can see from my brush that is removes all the grime and makeup from the day. Nothing is nicer than the feeling of clean soft skin.” – JuJu47

Want to know more? Read Trilogy Cream Cleanser reviews here…

$12.50 at Chemist Warehouse

esmi Skin Minerals The Uncomplicated Cleanser

We say: Suitable for all skin types and concerns, this gentle cream cleanser thoroughly removes makeup, leaving clean, calm and supple skin in its place.

You say: “I love this cleanser because I feel like it does a great job at keeping my skin soft and hydrated whilst giving a thorough deep clean. My skin doesn’t feel tight or stripped when using this cleanser. I feel like my skin has never felt so perfectly balanced and I feel like this cleanser was made for my exact skin type. I love it.” – Izzy09

Want to know more? Read esmi Skin Minerals The Uncomplicated Cleanser reviews here…

$49 at esmi Skin Minerals

Main image credit: @summerfridays

Have you tried any of these cleansers? What type of cleanser do you use?