Beauty
Fact-checked

At WiseGEEK, we're committed to delivering accurate, trustworthy information. Our expert-authored content is rigorously fact-checked and sourced from credible authorities. Discover how we uphold the highest standards in providing you with reliable knowledge.

Learn more...

How do I Choose the Best Foaming Cleanser?

Harriette Halepis
Harriette Halepis

With all of the different cleansers that are available, choosing a great foaming cleanser can be difficult. Before purchasing any cleanser, consider three crucial things: skin type, medicated or non-medicated, and target body part. Begin searching for a cleanser by determining skin-type.

As a general rule, foaming cleansers tend to dry skin more than other cleansers do. A person who already has dry skin will not benefit from a drying skin cleanser. Further, people who use acne treatments may not want to purchase a foaming cleanser, since the two products combined may result in extra-dry skin. Instead, cleansing lotions and bars may be a better choice.

Bar soap can be rough on some people's skin.
Bar soap can be rough on some people's skin.

While some people claim that bar soap are rough on skin, this is not necessarily true. Some bar soaps are perfectly fine for all types of skin. Bars that contain a large amount of lotion may be gentle enough to cleanse skin without causing irritations or blemishes. Once skin type has been determined, deciding between non-medicated or medicated cleansers is the next step.

Someone with acne might choose a medicated foaming cleanser.
Someone with acne might choose a medicated foaming cleanser.

Medicated facial cleansers usually contain sulfur, benzoyl peroxide, or salicylic acid. These additives help to eliminate breakouts, while also cleansing skin thoroughly. Acne cleansers of this type are available over-the-counter or by prescription. People who are already using a prescription acne cleanser should not use an over-the-counter acne cleanser. When the two products are combined, the result can be skin that is too dry.

Different skin types require different types of cleanser.
Different skin types require different types of cleanser.

Finally, choose a cleanser that was meant specifically for face or body. Total body cleansers should not be used on the face or neck area. Since facial and neck skin is thinner than other skin, using a rough cleanser on these areas can contribute to the aging and irritation of skin. Therefore, choosing the right kind of cleanser for the right body part is important.

In addition to all of the factors mentioned above, be sure to select any kind of foaming cleanser based upon the product, not the price. While there are some expensive facial products on the market, these products are not necessarily better for skin. Instead, select the products that work best. Sometimes expensive products do work better, but often regular drugstore brands will provide the same results. Many people have to try a number of different cleansers before the right one can be discovered, and this is an effective way to find a great skin product.

Those who are unsure of the right foaming cleanser to purchase may want to consult a licensed dermatologist. These medical professionals can often select effective products based upon a person's specific skin-type. In addition, a dermatologist will be able to determine whether or not a person is currently using the best possible skin products.

Discuss this Article

Post your comments
Login:
Forgot password?
Register:
    • Bar soap can be rough on some people's skin.
      By: Chris leachman
      Bar soap can be rough on some people's skin.
    • Someone with acne might choose a medicated foaming cleanser.
      By: Ocskay Bence
      Someone with acne might choose a medicated foaming cleanser.
    • Different skin types require different types of cleanser.
      By: Mikhail Malyugin
      Different skin types require different types of cleanser.