Discover The Key Difference Between Cleanser And Face Wash

Are you confused about using cleanser vs face wash and which one is better?

Well, the basic difference between a cleanser and a face wash lies in its effectiveness, formulation and application. Cleansers are gentle on the face compared to face washes. Cleansers are primarily used to remove makeup and the first layer of dirt from the surface of the face, whereas face wash comes with deep cleansing and mild exfoliating qualities to unclog pores, release trapped sebum from the pores and target skin concerns. We can say that a face wash is followed by a cleanser for a double cleansing effect to attain a squeaky clean face.

Read on to know exactly — what is the difference between face cleanser and face wash.

Difference Between Cleanser And Face Wash

We have jotted down some of the key differences between cleanser and face wash. Refer to the tabulated form of face cleanser vs face wash below: 

Face Cleanser	Face Wash
Used mostly to remove makeup or as a first step of a facial at home.	Used to double cleanse your face, and exfoliate pores, excess oil, and dead skin cells.
It is lightweight and mostly found in gel-based, milk-like runny or watery textures.	It comes in a cream-based or gel-based texture.
Doesn’t foam	Usually foams when used
Generally applied with cotton pads	Use directly on the face with lukewarm water
Doesn’t require rinsing face	Requires rinsing of the face to get rid of all the lather.
Doesn’t have an astringent effect on the face	It has astringent and moisturising properties
Doesn’t offer targeted skincare solutions	Offers targeted skincare solutions to fight acne, uneven skin tone, or other skin issues.

What Is A Face Wash?

Face wash is a skincare product which is basically used to thoroughly cleanse your face and exfoliate dead skin cells. It helps unclog blocked pores, remove excess oil and add a glow to your face. It is used after the facial cleanser to double cleanse your face and help you attain squeaky-clean skin. For dry to sensitive skin, a cream-based face wash works well, whereas for oily to combination skin type, a gel-like face wash is an ideal choice.

H3: What Are The Benefits Of Using A Face Wash?

A good face wash helps purify your pores while leaving a hydrating and glowing effect on the face. Using it on a regular basis helps lighten pigmentation, treat minor skin conditions, and prevent acne. Some of the face washes contain specific natural ingredients to offer targeted skincare solutions such as smoothening out texture, diminishing dark spots, and enhancing overall skin appearance.

How To Use A Face Wash?

Here are some of the basic steps to use the face wash correctly:

• Splash your face with lukewarm water.
• Take a coin size amount of face wash between your palms.
• Apply it on your face and go about in small circular motions using your fingertips for effective application.
• Leave it for 15-30 seconds and then rinse off with cool water. 
• Follow it up with a toner and face moisturiser.

Organic Harvest Recommended Face Wash

Organic Harvest offers some of the best chemical-free face wash which are sulphate-free, paraben-free and mineral oil-free. Here are our top picks for you:

1. Organic Harvest Acne Control Mattifying Face Wash: Neem & Tulsi

Organic Harvest Neem Face Wash is infused with organic neem extracts and other plant-based ingredients. This organic face wash not only clears out pores but also improves skin elasticity and texture. With a gel-like consistency, the benefits of neem face wash include dead skin cell exfoliation, acne treatment, and skin detoxification.

Price: 249 INR
Buy Link: Organic Harvest Acne Control Mattifying Face Wash: Neem & Tulsi

H4: 2. Organic Harvest Youthful Glow Face Wash: Saffron & Oat Milk

Organic Harvest Youthful Glow Face Wash is made with a combination of plant-based ingredients like saffron and oatmilk. It removes dead skin cells and purifies clogged pores while leaving a hydrating effect. It also helps lighten pigmentation, protect against sun exposure and even out skin tone. This is one of the best organic face washes for all skin types to keep your skin thoroughly clean without making it dull or dry.

Price: 249 INR
Buy Link: Organic Harvest Organic Harvest Youthful Glow Face Wash: Saffron & Oat Milk

H4: 3. Organic Harvest 3-in-1 Advanced Face Wash: Kakadu Plum, Acai Berry & Rice Water 

Organic Harvest 3-in-1 Advanced Face Wash is enriched with rice water, acai berry, and kakadu plum extracts. It comes with a 3-in-1 actions to slough off dead skin cells, reduce the appearance of dark spots, and protect against pollutant exposure. With a gel-based texture, it is one of the best Indian face washes for oily skin to clear acne, soothe your skin, and brighten your complexion.

Price: 349 INR
Buy Link: Organic Harvest 3-in-1 Advanced Face Wash: Kakadu Plum, Acai Berry & Rice Water 

What Is A Face Cleanser?

A cleanser is a mild version of face wash that comes in a water-based consistency. It is used as the first step in the skincare routine before face wash. It helps remove makeup, dirt or pollutants sitting on the surface of the face. Unlike face wash, it comes in a milk-based runny consistency or water-based soothing formulation which cleanses your skin gently without foaming up.

What Are The Benefits Of Using A Face Cleanser?

The primary benefit of a cleanser is to get rid of the top layer of dirt or pollutants from the surface of the skin. It also works as the best makeup remover without irritating your eyes. It is your skin’s first BFF to prevent the clogging of pores and acne, remove excess oil, fight bacterial infections and avert common skin imperfections.

How To Use A Cleanser?

Below are a few steps to keep in mind to use the face cleanser effectively:

• Pour a small amount of face cleanser on a cotton pad.
• Dab it for 3-5 seconds in a particular area to effectively swipe and remove makeup.
• Again, use a generous amount of cleanser on a fresh cotton pad and use it in small circular motions across the face to get rid of all the dirt, impurities and dead skin cells.
• Splash with cool water and pat dry your face.

Organic Harvest Recommended Face Cleansers

Looking for some gentle face cleansers in India? Here are some of the organic face cleansers which are safe, potent and perfect for everyday use:

1. Organic Harvest Youthful Glow Face Cleanser: Saffron, Oat Milk & Peach

Organic Harvest Youthful Glow Face Cleanser is made with naturally hydrating ingredients like saffron, oatmilk and peach extracts. This organic face cleanser helps remove all the impurities and grime deep-seated into the pores while giving an even skin tone. Using it regularly slows down the onset of wrinkles, fine lines and ageing spots. It is the best cleanser for dry and combination skin types.

Price: 495 INR
Buy Link: Organic Harvest Youthful Glow Face Cleanser: Saffron, Oat Milk & Peach

2. Brightening Face Cleanser: Kakadu Plum, Acai Berry & Rice Water

Organic Harvest Brightening Face Cleanser is specially formulated with rare ingredients like kakadu plum, acai berry & rice water. Enriched with the benefits of vitamin C for skin, it helps deeply cleanse, release trapped sebum, and purify congested pores. It is the best cleanser for all skin types to protect your skin against damage caused by pollutants, UV radiation and retain hydration level. Using it on a regular basis works effectively to treat minor skin imperfections and diminish dark spots.

Price: 495 INR
Buy Link: Brightening Face Cleanser

FAQs

Should I use both face wash and cleanser?

Yes, if you love to wear makeup on a daily basis, you should use a facial cleanser first and then double cleanse using a suitable face wash for your skin type.

Are cleansers and face wash the same?

No, the cleanser works on the superficial layer of the face to remove dirt & makeup. Whereas, the face wash comes in a cream-based or gel-based texture, applied on damp skin, to deep cleanse your face, exfoliate pores, and give you squeaky clean skin.

Is cleanser before or after face wash?

A facial cleanser is used before the face wash.

Can I use a cleanser every day?

Yes, you should use a cleanser every day. It is a must for people who wear makeup daily.

Conclusion

You might be wondering which to choose between cleanser vs face wash. Both of them have slightly different roles for your face. While a cleanser clears out dirt, excess oil, and makeup from the surface of the face, a good face wash works to deeply cleanse your face, clear out clogged pores and control sebum production.

Hence, you will need to use both cleanser and face wash in your daily skincare routine to keep your skin fresh, clear, and naturally glowing.

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