What is the Difference Between Cleanser and Face Wash

With so many terms in skincare, does it sometimes become overwhelming to understand products? Cleanser, essence, toner, ampoule - the list is endless. Face wash is the first step in any basic skincare routine. But questions like “What’s the difference between a cleanser and a face wash” are confusing, aren’t they? Choosing the wrong one can leave your skin feeling dry and irritated. In this blog, let us break down the science, purpose, and perfect use for cleansers and face washes so that you can curate a skincare routine that works best for your skin, not against it. 

Cleanser vs. Face Wash - What Are They?

Would you use olive oil to bake or vanilla extract in fries? These two products are like that, each has its own purpose and distinct roles for different skin. 

What is a Facewash?

A face wash is a foaming water-based formula designed to remove surface-level dirt and grime from the skin. The face wash is designed for deep cleansing as it can take away dirt, impurities, and excess oil. A face wash works well for oily skin, combination skin, and acne-prone skin. However, certain face washes can leave you with a dry or tight feeling as they can strip away natural oils. That is why it is important to choose a gentle face wash with hydrating ingredients so that they keep your skin hydrated while removing dirt. 

What is a Cleanser?

Cleansers on the other hand offer a gentle cleansing experience. They are typically formulated without any harmful surfactants, thus they do not lather. Cleansers are effective in drawing out surface impurities, dirt, and even makeup. You can find a cleanser in different formats like creams, gels, balms, and milk for different skin types. 

Due to its gentle formulation, a face cleanser minimizes the risk of stripping the skin of its natural oils. The creamy formulation helps to maintain the skin’s barrier, making it suitable for a variety of skin types, such as dry and sensitive skin. 

Texture & Ingredients in Face Wash and Face Cleansers - What Sets Them Apart

Now that you know the basics of cleanser and face wash, let's look at the ingredients that are added to them and their texture. 

Face Wash

• Texture: Lightweight, often gel-like, and creates a lather.

• Key Ingredients: Surfactants, coco-glucoside to lift oil and grime. May include ingredients like salicylic acid or tea tree oil for acne-prone skin, hyaluronic acid, or niacinamide for dry skin.

• Feels Like: A refreshing rinse.

Cleanser

• Texture: Creamy, milky, balmy, or oil-based.

• Key Ingredients: Hydrating agents (hyaluronic acid, glycerin), emollients (squalane, ceramides), or makeup-dissolving oils (jojoba, coconut).

• Feels Like: A soothing, non-stripping cleanse.

Choosing the Right Product for Your Skin 

Choosing the right product for your skin is important, rather than just a fancy product off the shelf. Here’s how to choose the right face wash or cleanser according to your skin type. 

When to Use a Face Wash

Choose a face wash depending on your skin type and the time you are using it. Here’s how:

1. You Have Oily or Acne-Prone Skin
   Face washes with salicylic acid or charcoal help control excess sebum and prevent breakouts.

2. After a Sweaty Workout
   Sweat mixes with bacteria and oil—foaming face washes reset your skin.

3. Morning Routine
   A quick cleanse preps skin for serums and sunscreen without over-drying.

4. For Glowing Skin

Use a Vitamin C face wash or an Ubtan face wash for glowing skin.

When to Use a Cleanser

Cleansers offer a deep cleansing effect and are especially helpful for taking off products from the skin like sunscreen or makeup. Here’s when to use them:

1. You Wear Makeup or SPF Daily
   Cleansers are useful for melting away long-wear foundations, makeup, and even waterproof sunscreen without tugging.

2. Dry or Sensitive Skin
   Creamy or oil-based cleansers hydrate while they clean, preventing the “squeaky clean” feel (a sign of stripped moisture).

3. Double Cleansing
   Start with a cleanser to dissolve makeup, followed by a face wash for a deep clean.

Ingredients to Look For in Your Face Wash or Cleanser

While picking up any skincare product, it is crucial to maintain your skin’s health and treat problems (if any) with targeted ingredients. Let’s look at some ingredients that you should be looking at in your face wash. 

For Face Washes

• Hyaluronic Acid: Hydrates while cleansing.

• Tea Tree Oil & Neem: Fights acne-causing bacteria.

• Kumkumadi Oil - For brightening skin and reducing tan

• Salicylic Acid - Helps to cleanse pores and reduce acne

• Retinol - Reduces fine lines and boosts collagen 

For Cleansers

• Squalane: Balances oil without clogging pores.

• Jojoba Oil: Mimics skin’s natural sebum for dry types.

• Activated Charcoal: Detoxifies oily skin.

• Fruit Extracts - For skin brightening

Earthraga’s Range of Gentle Facewash for Safe Skincare

At Earthraga we understand how you want the best care for your skin. Our range of face cleansers and foaming face washes come with a variety of ingredients to target skin issues like dullness, fine lines and wrinkles, acne, dryness, and more. All our face washes are free of harmful chemicals like parabens, sulfates, or artificial fragrances, making them suitable for all skin types. 

Take Away

Neither product is “better”—they’re different tools for different jobs. Your skin’s needs, lifestyle, and even the weather should guide your choice. At Earthraga, we formulate both cleansers and face washes to cater to every skin story, because great skincare starts with understanding your unique canvas.

Ready to find your perfect match? Explore our curated collection and let your skin thrive.

Cleanse wisely, glow endlessly.