To foam or not to foam? If you're trying to fix your skin worries and woes once and for all, then you need a good, reliable, and effective cleanser in your hand.
That brings us to the topic at hand - what's the difference between a foaming cleanser and a gel cleanser?
Keep reading to learn more.
Key Takeaways
- A cleanser is a product that is used to cleanse the skin, removing dirt, impurities, and dead skin cells from the skin's surface and pores.
- A foaming cleanser is a cleanser that has a foaming action, which serves to lift debris, dirt, and dead skin cells from the skin.
- A gel cleanser is a water-based product with a gel-like consistency, which is able to cleanse yet hydrate the skin.
- If you're interested in the purifying and cleansing power of these products, try our Rice Facial Cleanser or Sensica Gentle Gel Cleanser.
See Related: The Beginner's Guide to Skin Hydration
What Are Cleansers?
It's in the name - cleansers are products that are used to cleanse the skin.
At the core, cleansers remove impurities, makeup, and dirt on the skin. This keeps your pores clean and empty, since clogged pores can lead to things like acne, inflammation, and infections.
Here's what a good cleanser should do for your skin:
- Remove impurities, dirt, makeup, and dead skin cells from your skin's surface and pores
- Manage and remove excess oil (sebum), an oil-like substance that keeps your skin lubricated, but can lead to issues when in excess
- Clean away a buildup of dead skin cells, bacteria, and debris that can collect over time
- Provide the skin barrier with nutrients and nourishment to keep it strong, healthy, and supple
In this article, we'll discuss foaming and gel cleansers. But that's not all there is!
There are also oil-based cleansers, cream cleansers, and bar soaps. And depending on your skincare routine, you may need to use something like a makeup remover, micellar water, or cleansing oil before washing your face in order to remove any dirt or makeup.
When washing your face with a cleanser, be sure to use warm or lukewarm water. And when it comes to washing your body, be sure to start with a coffee body scrub.
What Is a Foaming Cleanser?
Let's start with foaming cleansers.
Again, it's in the name - foaming cleansers are cleansers that, well, foam! They contain foaming agents that turn bubbly or sudsy as you massage the product into your skin.
This foaming action is what lifts dirt, dead skin cells, and sebum from your skin. It's able to reach into your pores to extract bacteria, oil, and makeup, too.
Sometimes, foaming cleansers can be a little bit too irritating for some skin types. Some foaming cleansers contain sulfates like sodium lauryl sulfate that remove oil and moisture from your skin, which have the potential to disrupt your pH balance and skin barrier.
That's why a gentle foaming cleanser is better, as it is as effective and powerful as a foaming cleanser while still being non-irritating and soothing. That's where our Rice Facial Cleanser steps into the picture.
A Deep-Reaching, Lighter Cleansing Experience for Dry or Sensitive Skin
Our Rice Facial Cleanser is formulated to cleanse and renew the skin while revealing its natural glow. It's velvety-smooth and ultra-refreshing, leaving your skin healthy and happy after just one use. With rice exfoliating powder, apple extract, and glycerin, this lightly foaming cleanser is perfect for dull or tired skin, working to refresh its radiance and heighten its health.
Pros & Cons of Foaming Cleansers
So, is a foaming cleanser right for you? Let's take a look at the pros and cons, and see if it floats your boat.
Pros
- The foaming action can be satisfying and refreshing
- Ideal for acne-prone, oily, or combination skin types
- Provides a deep clean that penetrates your pores
- Delivers antioxidants to your skin
Cons
- Not ideal for dry skin or sensitive skin types
- Certain sulfates can strip or irritate the skin
Bonus: 10 Surprising Benefits of Almond Oil for Skin & Hair
What Is a Gel Cleanser?
On the other side of the skin-cleanser spectrum are gel cleansers. Unlike foaming cleansers, gel cleansers have no foaming particles. Instead, they have a gel-like consistency that is thick yet lightweight.
Gel cleansers usually contain mild ingredients that provide a lightweight yet effective cleanse. The smooth, gel formula doesn't strip the skin and instead keeps it hydrated and supple.
Gels are water-based products, often infused with essential oils, natural ingredients, or flower extracts that are nourishing to the skin. This unique blend of elements makes gel cleansers good for sensitive or dry skin, but it's also effective enough to be used on oily and acne-prone skin.
Our Newest Addition: The Sensica Gentle Gel Cleanser
The newest addition to our family of all-natural, plant-based skincare is the Sensica Gentle Gel Cleanser. This skin-supporting formula is crafted with Centella asiatica, ceramides, and sodium hyaluronate, which serve to hydrate and uplift the skin. Additionally, the formula is able to effortlessly rid your skin of impurities, dirt, and oil.
Pros & Cons of Gel Cleansers
Pros
- Very gentle and soothing on a variety of skin types
- Contains natural oils and hydrating elements that nourish the skin
- Can help balance the pH of the skin
- Provides an effective cleanse without stripping the skin
Cons
- Not ideal for oily skin types
- Not as deep-cleansing as foaming face washes
The Bottom Line
The right cleanser can do more than leave skin feeling clean and clear. From gentle surfactants that rid the skin of excess oil, to cream cleansers that retain moisture and hydration, there are many types of cleansers out there.
Keep Reading: The Beauty Benefits of Gotu Kola (Centella Asiatica)
People Also Ask
Is a Gel Cleanser or Foam Cleanser Better?
The "best" cleanser for you depends on a few factors, including your skin type, beauty goals, and personal preferences.
For example, if you prefer a cleanser that will manage oiliness or treat acne, then a foaming face wash may be better. But if you want to soothe irritation or a daily cleanse, then you can rely on a gel cleanser.
Is Gel or Foam Better for Acne?
Many foaming cleansers are designed for acne, as the foaming action helps remove makeup, dirt, and dead skin cells from your skin. But there are also gel cleansers that can help balance and purify the skin more effectively, which can be a godsend when handling acne.
Does Foaming Cleanser Cleanse as Well as a Gel?
Yes! Both products are effective and popular cleansers, each with its own additional benefits and properties. For instance, gel cleansers have antiseptic properties and moisturizing ingredients.
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Juara Skincare incorporates ancient rituals with Western skincare science, creating the ultimate beauty experience. We aim to transport you from the mundane to the extraordinary with our exotic ingredients, intoxicating scents, and powerful, skin-improving formulas. All of our products are nutrient-rich and botanically based. We are proud to be certified cruelty-free. Get the latest skin care tips and info on Juara products by following us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and Pinterest.
