Cleansing Care: Gentle Products for Deep Cleansing

What is a cleanser, and why is it essential?

A cleanser is a product designed to remove impurities, excess oil, and makeup residue from the skin’s surface.

This foundational step in any skincare routine maintains skin health, prevents breakouts, and significantly improvesthe absorption of subsequent products, whether they are serums, moisturizers, or anti-aging treatments.

Regular cleansing keeps pores clear, reduces the appearance of blackheads, and promotes a more even complexion over time.

Discover our complete selection of facial cleansers approved by our pharmacists for every skin type.

What types of cleansers are there, and how do you choose them?

There are several different formulations of facial cleansers, each designed for a specific skin type:

1. Cleansing gel: ideal for oily and combination skin; it deeply cleanses and removes excess sebum without drying out the skin.
2. Cleansing milk: suitable for dry and sensitive skin; it gently cleanses while preserving the hydrolipidic film.
3. Micellar water: suitable for all skin types and particularly recommended for sensitive skin; its micelles capture impurities without requiring rinsing.
4. Makeup-removing oil: effective at removing waterproof makeup while simultaneously nourishing the skin; suitable for all skin types.
5. Cleansing foam: perfect for normal to combination skin; it provides an immediate feeling of freshness and lightness.

To choose the right cleanser for you, identify your exact skin type and your top priorities.

How do you use a cleanser correctly?

To get the most out of your cleanser, follow these five steps in order:

1. Wash your hands to avoid transferring bacteria to your face before cleansing.
2. Moisten your face with lukewarm water to prepare your skin and make it easier to apply the product.
3. Apply an appropriate amount ofthe product, then gently massage it in with upward circular motions.
4. Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water to remove any surfactant residue.
5. Patyour face dry with a clean towel—do not rub—to preserve the skin barrier.

Cleanse your face morning and night to keep your skin clean, balanced, and ready to receive your targeted skincare products.

What are the benefits of a natural cleanser?

Natural cleansers offer several distinct benefits for both the skin and the environment:

1. Gentle ingredients: They rely on plant-based active ingredients that are less likely to irritate sensitive skin.
2. Environmentally friendly: Formulated without harmful chemicals, they are part of a more responsible approach.
3. Preserved hydration: Many natural cleansers contain aloe vera or jojoba oil to maintain the skin’s moisture levels.
4. Soothing properties: Enriched with chamomile, witch hazel, or oats, they provide long-lasting relief for sensitive skin.

What’s the difference between a cleanser and an exfoliant?

A cleanser is used daily to remove surface impurities, while an exfoliant is used once or twice a week to remove dead skin cells.

Exfoliants contain mechanical particles (grains) or chemical active ingredients (AHAs, BHAs, enzymes) that loosen and remove surface dead skin cells.

Using both products together in the right balance helps maintain smoother, more radiant, and more even-toned skin without disrupting the skin barrier.

Can a cleanser help treat acne?

Yes, a suitable cleanser is an effective part of managing mild to moderate acne.

Formulas containing salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide, or zinc unclog pores and regulatethe excess sebum that causes breakouts.

Choose a product suited to your skin type and avoid overusing concentrated active ingredients, which can weaken the skin barrier and worsen inflammation.

If you have moderate to severe or persistent acne, consult a dermatologist; supplement your routine with products from our facial acne line.

Should you switch your cleanser with the seasons?

Adapting your cleanser to the seasons is a good practice for maintaining skin comfort year-round.

In winter, your skin benefits from a more hydrating and emollient cleanser, which counteracts the drying effects of cold weather and indoor heating.

In summer, a lighter, mattifying formula helps control excess sebum caused by heat and humidity.

Adjusting your routine as the months go by helps maintain your skin’s balance and maximizes the benefits of each step.

Can a cleanser help reduce the signs of aging?

Some cleansers help reduce the first signs of skin aging, as part of a comprehensive anti-aging routine.

Formulas enriched with antioxidants (vitamins C and E), hyaluronic acid, or peptides promote cell regeneration and protect against free radicals.

Regular use gradually improves elasticity, reduces the appearance of wrinkles, and promotes a more even complexion.

To take it a step further, complete your routine with our selection of anti-aging products.

How do you choose a cleanser for sensitive skin?

For sensitive skin, choose a cleanser formulated with gentle, soothing, and well-tolerated active ingredients.

Opt for fragrance-free, alcohol-free, and hypoallergenic products, which minimize the risk of skin reactions.

Micellar waters and cleansing milks are particularly well-suited, as they respect the skin barrier without compromising it.

Ingredients such as aloe vera, chamomile, and oats soothe and protect even the most delicate skin with each use.

Do you need a specific cleanser for makeup?

If you wear makeup, choose a cleanser that can effectively remove it while being gentle on the skin.

Makeup-removing oils and micellar waters dissolve even waterproof makeup and long-lasting pigments without unnecessary rubbing.

The double-cleansing method—an oil-based makeup remover followed by a gentle cleanser—ensures the complete removal of makeup residue, sunscreen, and pollution.

For a complete routine, explore our selection of facial makeup removers.

What role does pH play in a cleanser?

The pH of a cleanser plays a crucial role in maintaining the skin’s natural balance.

Human skin has a slightly acidic pH, ranging from 4.5 to 5.5, which forms its protective hydrolipidic film.

A cleanser with a similar pH respects this natural barrier and minimizes feelings of discomfort after rinsing.

Conversely, a product that is too alkaline can disrupt the skin’s balance, causing dryness, tightness, and increased susceptibility to irritation.

Can a cleanser reduce the appearance of enlarged pores?

A suitable cleanser visibly minimizes the appearance of enlarged pores and blackheads.

Cleansers enriched with hydroxy acids (AHAs and BHAs)—such as salicylic acid or glycolic acid—gently exfoliate, unclog pores, and regulateexcess sebum.

Clay-based cleansers absorb excess sebum and visually refine skin texture when used weekly.

A consistent routine, combined with appropriate moisturization and daily sun protection, yields the best results over time.