Clean and healthy skin starts with the basics and a good cleanser is part of a good skin regimen. What good is it if your skin is not properly cleansed and the rest of the products you apply afterwards are just sitting there on the top? Also a cleanser is not supposed to be too harsh on the skin that it damages our skin barrier. Here in this article we will talk about whether gel cleansers are good for dry skin and and if they can effectively meet your skin’s cleansing goals.
In This Article
- What are gel cleansers?
- Are gel cleansers water-based?
- What Are Gel Cleansers Good For?
- Are gel cleansers good for dry skin?
- Foaming vs non-foaming gel cleanser: Which is Right for You?
- Gel cleanser vs cream cleansers for dry skin
- FAQ
- Key Takeaway
What are gel cleansers?
Gel cleansers are water-based cleansers with a gel like texture and lightweight formula. They hit the skin with a burst of refreshment making them ideal for those who want a lighter fresh cleansing experience.
Most of the gel cleansers available on the market are non-foaming which means they do not lather while few produce mild lather.
Are gel cleansers water-based?
Yes mostly they are water-based cleansers and what I mean by that is that when you cleanse they won’t leave any sort of residue behind or stripping the skin of it’s natural oil.
What Are Gel Cleansers Good For?
Gel cleansers work by breaking down and lifting away impurities that are water-soluble such as sweat and dirt (they won’t dissolve oil based impurities or disrupt the skin oil balance, that’s why it is often advised for people with excess sebum or those who put on make up daily to do double cleanse so that the oil cleanser lift away the oil based impurities)
Are gel cleansers good for dry skin?
People with dry skin often have multiple concerns when it comes to choosing a good cleansers that they can use in the morning and evening.
If you have dry skin you should choose a cleanser that does not over strip and leave the skin dehydrated. Cleanser with such formulations breaks the moisture barrier and makes skin dull and flaky.
Gel cleansers often have a pH level that matches that of the skin and since it is water based and gentle they are the perfect choice for those with dry skin.
Foaming vs non-foaming gel cleanser: Which is Right for You?
Cleansers that do not lather are the go-to for those with dry skin. If your cleanser lathers, chances are that it might include sulfates and will cause further dryness.
A cleanser that is free of sulfates will give the skin a gentle cleansing experience without post-wash skin tightness.
Gel cleanser vs cream cleansers for dry skin
When it comes to choosing between a gel-based formula vs cream based , it depends on how dry your skin is and personal preference since they both are good to use on dry skin.
Gel cleansers for dry skin are more focused on being gentle and hydrating on the skin offering a good mild cleanse. They mostly contain ingredients like, inuli, glycerin and aloe vera.
Cream cleansers on the other hand contain emollients such as oil, ceramides and butter that gives ultra nourishment with deep hydration.
I would recommend cream cleansers for those who have very dry, flaky and mature skin and they want something to give them an extra boost of deep conditioning of the skin.
To remove water-based impurities and a gentle cleanse without damaging skin’s moisture barrier, gel based cleansers are perfect choice.
If your skin tends to react to emollients in cream cleansers, especially oil-based ones, you might want to use a cleanser with gel-based formula.
FAQ
How to Use Gel Cleanser for Dry Skin?
Use lukewarm water to wet your face before applying the cleanser.
Use a dime-sized amount of the gel cleanser, applying it in gentle, circular motions with your fingertips.
Be thorough, especially around areas prone to dryness, but avoid excessive scrubbing as it can irritate and dry out the skin.
Rinse your face with lukewarm water, ensuring all cleanser is removed.
Pat your skin dry with a soft towel instead of rubbing, as rubbing can aggravate dryness
If your skin feels tight or overly dry after cleansing twice a day, try reducing to once daily at night and simply rinsing with water in the morning. This can help prevent over-drying.
Tip: Always follow with a layer of hydrating toner
Can Gel Cleansers Remove Sunscreen?
A gel cleanser might remove sunscreen. It comes down to the type of the sunscreen you are using. If you are using a protective sunscreen that is water-resistant or oil-based , a gentle cleanser will not effectively lift off the sunscreen residues. (Oil cleansing/double cleansing is recommended if you wear make up and sunscreen) However if you are using a sunscreen that is lightweight and not water resistant, gel cleanser alone is sufficient.
Key Takeaway
Gel cleansers in the form of both mild foaming and non-foaming are good for dry skin. Make sure they contain ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and aloe vera.
If you have extremely dry skin, choose a non-foaming cream-based formula to not only cleanse but also nourish.
If you have dry skin and don’t use makeup often, choose a non-foaming gel-based cleanser. While I don’t mind mild lather forming cleanser, they can be drying for those with extremely dry and sensitive skin.
