At first glance, a face wash and cleanser do pretty much the same job…that is, remove dirt and grime that’s accumulated on your face over the course of the day. However, the two terms are often wrongly used interchangeably. We don’t blame you; they do seem a lot alike and it can get difficult sometimes, to tell one from the other with respect to what each one does to your skin.
So, we’ve put together a few basics about cleansers and face washes, to help you understand how these work on your skin. Read on, to know how the two differ from one another, even while they continue to perform the same task, i.e. clean your face!
Cleansers vs face washes and their basic functions
One striking difference between the two products is that cleansers are mild and non-foaming whereas face washes are relatively harsher and foam easily, much like soaps and shower gels. Cleansers contain mild, hydrating ingredients and are rich and creamy in texture, while face washes often contain astringent ingredients that can be a bit harsh. To put it in perspective, it would be fair to say that cleansers are milder than face washes, while face washes are milder than soaps (by the way, never use a soap bar on your face as it can alter your skin’s pH levels).
What’s the best to use – cleanser or face wash?
Whether you use a cleanser, or a face wash entirely depends on the nature of your skin. If you have a dry or sensitive skin, preferably use a cleanser. Face washes on the other hand, are best suited for oily and acne-prone skin. In case you plan on using both these products together in your skincare regime, begin your day with a face wash and then use a cleanser during the course of the day or just before bedtime.
How does a cleanser work?
A good cleanser helps remove oils and impurities from your skin and prevents the pores of your skin from getting clogged. That way, your skin remains blemish and pimple-free! It also effectively hydrates and moisturizes skin, leaving it feeling rejuvenated and smooth. Some cleansers can be wiped off your face using a cotton swab, while others may need a lukewarm water rinse.
How does a face wash work?
Face washes are water-based and tend to foam up when applied on the skin. The foaming effects and astringent qualities of face washes help get rid of stubborn dirt and deep clean skin pores, which in turn reduce breakouts. If you’re using a face wash, remember to rinse your face with slightly warm water, to get rid of the foam and prevent your face from drying up.
Finally, whether you choose to use a cleanser or face wash, it’s always good to be aware of a few Dos and Don’ts when cleaning your face’! 
Do: Remove all makeup, before you begin cleansing your face.
Do: Finish your cleansing process with a good toner.
Do: Use a soft towel to pat dry your face after a wash.
Don’t: Use hot water on your face (use lukewarm water instead).
Don’t: Miss out on moisturizing your face once you have cleansed it.
Don’t: Stop at your chin – your neck needs cleaning too!
If you’re looking for that one product that can gently cleanse your facial skin, and leave it smooth and glowing with regular use, we recommend you try Mitchell USA’s Age-less Papaya Brightening Cleanser. Enriched with the natural extracts of the sacred lotus seed and papaya, ultra-mild and gentle anti-aging cleanser thoroughly cleans away dirt, removes toxins and makeup. While an ordinary gel cleanser can leave your skin feeling dry and parched, this Papaya Brightening Cleanser pampers your skin to reveal an inner radiance, unlike most other store-bought cleansers and face washes.
