How to Choose the Right Face Wash For Your Skin

In the world of skincare, a new product—that guarantees spotless, glowing skin—hits the market every single day, boasting of a chemically-approved combination of ingredients or a natural substitute that promises minimal skin damage. And, the sheer number of these formulas makes it incredibly difficult for one to settle on the perfect product, one that is best suited to their skin. 

To help you make the right choice, we spoke to Mumbai-based cosmetic dermatologist, Dr Jaishree Sharad, who gives you the lowdown on how to go about picking the ideal face wash, based on your skin type. 

 

What is a face wash and how often should I use one? 

 

"Essentially, a face wash helps maintain skin hygiene and works to remove dead skin cells, sweat, dirt, grime, and makeup from the surface of the skin. Ideally, you should cleanse your face twice a day—once in the morning and once at night—using a face wash keeping in mind your existing skin conditions such as acne, rosacea, and the climate that you live in," explains Dr Sharad. 

 

What type of a face wash should I use for dry skin?

 

"If you possess dry, flaky skin opt for a gentle face wash with added moisturisers and super fatty acids including petrolatum, lanolin, mineral oil, cocoa butter, glycerine, shea butter, and ceramides. You can also make use of those products that contain natural ingredients such as jojoba oil, coconut oil, Aloe vera, soybean oil, and olive oil," informs Dr Sharad. She also advises against using soaps with a high pH value, anti-bacterial or exfoliating properties, as they have the potential to irritate the skin.

 

What type of a face wash should I use for oily skin?

 

Dr Jaishree Sharad recommends that those with oily, acne-prone skin opt for a face wash that foams gently. "Pick exfoliating ingredients such as salicylic acid, glycolic acid, and lactic acid, or botanicals including Aloe vera, tea-tree oil, or grape seed oil, as they can help balance excessive oil production. However, if you tend to breakout easily—or are consuming acne-specific medication—choose a gentle, non-soap cleanser for your skin," she adds.

 

What type of a face wash should I use for combination skin?

 

"If you have a combination skin type—such as an oily T-zone with dry skin—pick a face wash that is neither too drying nor too moisturising. Alternatively, use a specific kind of cleanser ideal for your oily T-zone, and a moisturising one for the rest of your face," suggests Dr Sharad. 

 

What type of a face wash should I use for sensitive skin?

 

Do you tend to develop a rash with a face wash you pick off of the shelf? If yes, you possess sensitive skin. "I would advise that you stay away from medicated face washes, along with the ones containing fragrance or alcohol, as these ingredients often irritate the skin. Instead, pick a face wash with neutral to acidic pH, that has moisturising properties. Micellar water works best for sensitive skin, and works to absorb dust and impurities, cleansing the skin thoroughly," states Dr Sharad.