Choosing the right cleanser is the first and most crucial step in achieving healthy, glowing skin. With a sea of products available—from oil-based cleansers to micellar water and exfoliating face washes—it can get overwhelming. But don’t worry, we’ve broken it down in a beginner-friendly guide so you can confidently pick the best cleanser based on your skin type and concerns.

Whether you’re dealing with dry patches, oily zones, or sensitive skin flare-ups, this guide is here to help you on How to choose Best cleanser for glowing skin.

Why the Right Cleanser Matters

Your facial cleanser does more than just remove dirt. A well-formulated cleanser:

• Balances skin’s natural pH
• Prevents breakouts and clogged pores
• Supports your skin barrier
• Preps your face for moisturizers and serums

If your skin feels tight or overly greasy after washing, you’re likely using the wrong product.

How to Choose the Best Cleanser Based on Skin Type

1. Understand Your Skin Type First

Before buying any face wash, figure out if your skin is:

• Oily – Shiny with visible pores and prone to breakouts
• Dry – Feels tight, flaky, or rough
• Combination – Oily in the T-zone but dry on the cheeks
• Sensitive – Easily irritated, red, or itchy
• Normal – Well-balanced and rarely problematic

This is key to choosing a cleanser that suits you perfectly.

2. Best Cleanser for Oily Skin

Look for a gel-based or foaming face wash that removes excess oil without over-drying. Ingredients like salicylic acid or tea tree oil help clear up acne and reduce shine.

Top Picks:

• Face Wash for Oily Skin: Neutrogena Oil-Free Acne Wash
• Salicylic Acid Body Wash: The Body Shop Tea Tree Skin Clearing Body Wash
• Cleanser for Oily Skin: Minimalist Salicylic + LHA Cleanser

3. Best Cleanser for Dry Skin

If your skin craves hydration, go for a creamy or oil-based cleanser. These retain moisture while gently lifting impurities.

Top Picks:

• Best Cleanser for Dry Skin: CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser
• Oil-Based Cleanser: The Face Shop Rice Water Bright
• Best Cleansing Balm: Plum E-Luminence Simply Supple Balm

4. Best Cleanser for Sensitive Skin

Fragrance-free, hypoallergenic, and non-foaming formulas are your best friends. They help soothe redness and reduce irritation.

Top Picks:

• Face Wash for Sensitive Skin: Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser
• Best Micellar Water: Bioderma Sensibio H2O
• Best Face Wash for Sensitive Skin: Simple Kind to Skin Refreshing Facial Wash

5. Best Cleanser for Combination Skin

Choose a balancing cleanser that cleans oily areas without drying out other zones. A gentle exfoliating wash twice a week can help too.

Top Picks:

• Best Cleanser for Combination Skin: The Derma Co Creamy Cleanser
• Best Exfoliating Face Wash: Mamaearth Charcoal Face Scrub

Types of Cleansers & What They Do

A. Gel Cleansers

Great for oily or acne-prone skin. They deep clean pores and remove excess sebum.

B. Cream Cleansers

Best for dry or mature skin. Rich and hydrating.

C. Micellar Water

No-rinse formula perfect for removing light makeup and cleansing sensitive skin.

D. Cleansing Balms

Melts away makeup and impurities—ideal for dry or combination skin.

E. Exfoliating Cleansers

Contain gentle acids (like AHA/BHA) or physical beads to remove dead skin cells. Use 1–2 times a week max.

Skin Concern	Star Ingredients
Acne/Oiliness	Salicylic Acid, Tea Tree, Niacinamide
Dryness	Glycerin, Hyaluronic Acid, Ceramides
Sensitivity	Aloe Vera, Chamomile, Centella Asiatica
Dull Skin	Vitamin C, Lactic Acid, Enzymes

Always patch test a new product—especially if it contains active ingredients.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Choosing a Cleanser

• Over-cleansing: Washing more than twice a day strips the skin’s barrier.
• Ignoring ingredients: Fragrance and alcohol can be irritating for sensitive skin.
• Not adjusting with seasons: Switch to hydrating cleansers in winter, lighter ones in summer.
• Skipping sunscreen: Even the best cleanser can’t protect you from sun damage.

Step-by-Step: How to Use a Cleanser the Right Way

1. Start with clean hands
2. Wet your face with lukewarm water
3. Apply a pea-sized amount of cleanser
4. Massage gently in circular motions for 30–60 seconds
5. Rinse thoroughly and pat dry
6. Follow up with a toner, serum, and moisturizer

Bonus Tip: Double Cleansing for Glowing Skin

If you wear makeup or sunscreen, start with a cleansing balm or micellar water, then follow with a regular face wash. This ensures every layer of grime is removed without irritating the skin.

Best Websites to Buy Cleansers:

• Nykaa: A leading beauty retailer with a vast selection of cleansers from budget-friendly to high-end brands. They offer excellent search filters, customer reviews, and often have exclusive deals and discounts.
• Myntra: A popular e-commerce platform with a strong focus on fashion and beauty. They have a wide range of cleansers from various brands, including international and domestic brands.
• Flipkart: Another major e-commerce player, Flipkart offers a competitive selection of cleansers with competitive pricing and various payment options.
• Amazon: A global giant with a massive selection of cleansers from all price points. You can easily compare prices, read reviews, and utilize filters to find the best match for your skin type.
• Purplle: A dedicated beauty platform with a curated selection of skincare products, often featuring unique and lesser-known brands. They offer personalized recommendations and informative content.
• Sephora: A global beauty retailer known for high-end brands and curated selections.

Also Read : 5 Best Tips on How to choose sunscreen according to skin type

Overall Things to Know on How to choose best cleanser for glowing skin

Choosing the right cleanser is a game-changer in your skincare routine. When you know your skin type and what ingredients to look for, it’s much easier to find your perfect match.