What is the difference between a cleanser and a face wash?

Cleansers and face washes both work to thoroughly cleanse the skin – the main difference lies in the texture. Face washes are usually water-based formulas like gels, soap bars or foams that form a soapy lather when massaged with water, ensuring a deep pore cleanse. Facial cleansers typically have richer textures like creams, balms and oils, and are often formulated with nourishing, barrier-strengthening ingredients to help boost moisture levels and rebalance the complexion.

How often should you use a cleanser?

It’s best to use a cleanser twice daily, morning and night. Even if you have very oily skin, try to stick to twice daily, as over-cleansing can strip the skin of essential oils and damage the skin barrier. It can also cause the skin to produce more oil to counteract dryness or sensitivity caused by over-cleansing.

Do you need to wash your face in the morning?

It’s completely up to you, however our experts recommend that twice-daily cleansing will help keep your skin healthy and happy. Firstly, cleansing in the morning is a great way to wake up, prep and refresh your skin – it also helps your next skincare steps to sink in and get to work. A morning cleanse also sweeps away excess oil and debris that may have accumulated overnight, as well as removing any remnants of heavier skincare from the night before (for example, overnight masks or night creams). The trick is to ensure you are using the right cleanser for your skin type, avoiding anything that will strip your skin or damage the skin barrier.

When do you need to double cleanse?

Double cleansing is a two-step cleansing regimen, starting with an oil or balm-based cleanse to remove makeup, sunscreen and direct, followed by a cream, gel or mousse-based cleanser to ensure a thorough cleanse for radiant skin. Learn more about The Power Of Double Cleansing in our expert guide.

Need more help creating your Clinique skincare routine? Trained in partnership with our guiding dermatologists, our in-house experts are here to help you achieve your skin goals with our complimentary Clinical Consultations service. Equipped with pioneering diagnostic tools and education backed by dermatological science, our Clinical Consultants will help you create a skincare routine to deliver instant wins and results over time. Offering a bespoke, tailored service, they'll act as your personal skin coach, tracking your progress with regular check-ins over the course of 12 weeks and providing advice and tips to help you make the most of your new routine. Book an appointment today to start your journey to great skin.

Words by Shona Wallace, January 2024.