Mild cleanser

Updated: May 1, 2019

Facial skin needs regular cleansing. But to preserve youth and beauty, it is important to pay attention to the components that are in the composition of washing and cleansing products. Often you can find aggressive substances in them that mercilessly remove dirt and deprive the skin of the necessary lipid layer. And this leads to irritation, dryness, and sometimes rashes. For some, aggressive washes can even cause dermatitis.

Let's look at which substances are dangerous for the skin, and which washbasins can be safely placed on the shelf in the bathroom.

Harmful components of facial cleansers

Anionic surfactants

In the first place for everyone who uses face washes is surfactants - surfactants, these aggressive components can significantly damage your skin. But are all surfactants so dangerous?

After all, on almost every package of cleanser - foam, mousse or tonic - we see these three scary letters. In fact, only surfactants labeled “anionic” can cause harm to the skin; on the packaging they are usually indicated as “sulfates”. They are loved to be used in inexpensive cleansers.

Anionic surfactants are a product based on lipophilic and hydrophilic layers. When exposed, it sticks well to particles of fat, but draws out water equally well. Therefore, when cleansing, they also deprive the skin of necessary moisture. And not only moisture, but also a natural protective layer in the form of essential fats. Therefore, after such products, the skin becomes dehydrated, and the epidermis is not protected. Today there are enough products on the market that clean well without this harmful substance. The aggressiveness of its impact produces noticeable results, but they are more negative than positive.

Mineral oil

Contrary to the well-known statement that oil saturates the skin with moisture, when it comes to minerals, this is not always the case. How is mineral oil different from natural oil? It is obtained artificially. Everyone is familiar with such a substance as Vaseline - this is mineral oil. Of course, it has an exclusively chemical composition, but it is quite safe.

Without taking into account the disclaimer - in washbasins, such products can clog pores and contribute to the appearance of comedones. It seems that this is bad luck, because cleansers, on the contrary, should help rid the skin of harmful substances. But mineral oil can “lock” these substances and hide them away.

Therefore, the use of this “white oil” is not recommended for people with problematic and oily skin. Many also complain about carcinogens in the composition, which can cause cancer. In fact, the harm from mineral oil in this case has not been proven and is considered an effective marketing ploy from manufacturers of so-called “natural cosmetics.”

Useful components

IMPORTANT! Mild surfactants, unlike anionic surfactants, do not harm the skin, but also actively cleanse it. They are usually called “amphoteric”; these substances have a much lower charge of particles that stick to the layers of the skin. They wash and clean, but not to the point of squeaking. Typically they are listed on the packaging as follows: cocoaminopropyl betaine and imidazoline (sodium cocoamphoacetate). You can distinguish them in their composition by foaming; it is not as active as that of aggressive components.

Therefore, they are often used together with anionic surfactants, as they make aggressive substances less dangerous. The substance is obtained from natural raw materials, for example, from coconut oil. Many hydrophilic oils also contain such surfactants.

Selection rules

Certainly, When choosing face washes, you need to know your skin type. If the skin is dehydrated and dry, it is better to use gels with moisturizing ingredients, such as hyaluronic acid, rather than foams.

Foams, as a rule, contain more substances that eliminate oily shine, so they are perfect for those with a problem T-zone. Also, be sure to read the ingredients before purchasing.

IMPORTANT! The content of harmful surfactants and mineral oil will not make your skin healthier, and will add problems in the form of rashes and peeling.

Another guideline when choosing is the desired effect. If you need a makeup remover, then choose hydrophilic oil, foam and tonic. If you just want to wash your face twice a day, then a simple gel cleanser will do.

Let's look at the most famous paraben-free washing gels:

1. Face wash and face lotion for problem skin from Manhattan (Yolko)
2. Cleansing gel “FRESH SKIN” NEOBIO
3. Skineye ac pure wash peeling gel
4. Christina Moisturizing Facial Wash
5. Librederm Vitamin E Gentle cream-gel wash

This is just a small list of effective and safe washing gels.

Let's look at the most famous sulfate-free cleansing foams:

1. Spivak Cleansing foam for washing
2. Natura Siberica Foam-mousse for washing
3. La Roche Posay Effaclar Cleansing Foaming Facial Gel
4. Bioderma Hydrating Facial Cleansing Foam
5. Shise >Natural face washes

Such means include organic gels and hypoallergenic foams, as well as natural soap and bio-cleaning. Biocleaning is a powder that must be moistened with water before use. Then you need to wash yourself thoroughly with this wet sand, rubbing it into the skin, rubbing very gently, but thoroughly. Then the paste is washed off with warm water.

Natural soap is suitable for cleaning oily facial skin. When lathering, it hardly foams, since it does not contain any chemical foaming agents, while it effectively fights dirt and grease. Anyone with sensitive skin should take a closer look at organic gels and hypoallergenic foams. Let's take a closer look at the best means.

Best gel

Wash gel Workshop Olesya Mustaeva Rose moisturizing with silk. This product gently and gently cleanses all skin types. It contains only natural ingredients, extracts, oils. Just read the ingredients: wheat protein, jojoba oil, hydrolyzed silk, camelina oil, phytosterol esters of Abyssinian mustard seed oil, fragrant honeysuckle extract, Japanese honeysuckle extract, green tea extract, linden flower extract, raspberry fruit extract, citric acid, rose essential oil, ylang-ylang essential oil. Of course, this product does not foam or lather like its chemical counterparts, but cleanses adequately and gives the skin the necessary supply of hydration.

Here is a list of other hypoallergenic face washes:

1. Bliss Triple Oxygen Instant
2. Energizing Cleansing Foam
3. Kenzoki Gentle Cleansing Lotus Mousse
4. Shise >Soft gel for children

Babies always have sensitive skin, so to avoid dryness and flaking of the facial skin, use gentle cleansers. These include NeoBio Fresh Skin Waschgel. It is soft, foams well, and smells neutral. Does not sting the eyes, does not cause dryness, but, on the contrary, moisturizes delicate baby skin without clogging pores.

Conclusion: When choosing a cleanser, be sure to look at the ingredients label. What seems like a good “cleaning” ability can harm your skin, because along with excess fat, aggressive products also destroy the natural protective layer. If you have sensitive skin, then choose soft gels, and if you have an oily T-zone, then use foams with mild surfactants.

Washing your face is a process necessary for every woman who uses decorative cosmetics. Many ladies use thick foundations that penetrate deep into the pores, so proper cleaning is required. To figure out which product you need, the top 17 best washing gels were created.

1. The best cleansing gels for all skin types

1. 1. Kanebo Refreshing Creamy Wash (Ideal composition. No aggressive substances) - 1850 ₽
2. 2. Natura Siberica Caviar de Russie (Best Russian remedy) - 1100 ₽
3. 3. Cosmetex Roland Deep Cleansing Essence In Gel (Excellently removes makeup residue) - 800 ₽
4. 4. Clarins Pure Melt (Nourishing gel that gives radiance) - 1800 ₽
5. 5. Payot Mousse micellaire nettoyante (High quality product with a feminine scent) - 1250 ₽

How to choose a gel for washing

When choosing a washbasin, you first need to pay attention to the composition. If the list of ingredients contains sodium lauryl sulfate or sodium myret sulfate, then it is better to buy another gel. Often, these types of components are found only in inexpensive washing gels, but there are exceptions. After using this product, the dermis will become dry and rashes may appear.

The undesirable ingredient is mineral oil. Many girls think that oils in cosmetics are always useful, but in this case this is not the case, especially if you have combination or oily skin. Mineral oils can clog pores, leading to breakouts.

Among the useful components I would like to highlight:

1. coco-glucoside;
2. coco-betaine;
3. capryl glucoside;
4. cocamidopropyl betaine.

These ingredients retain moisture, which is why they are often used in gels for dry skin. Girls with oily or combination skin need to look for washes with acids (lactic, salicylic, glycolic). They help exfoliate dead cells, giving the skin a matte and healthy appearance. It’s good if a facial cleansing product contains a list of medicinal herbs: chamomile, aloe, calendula cornflower, etc.

Trends 2019

When choosing the best cleanser, you should pay attention to fashion trends. Among the popular trends of 2019 are:

Organic

You need to understand that natural and organic cosmetics are radically different in composition. A natural product can be filled with various dyes, fragrances and other ingredients that cause allergies and dryness. To write “natural” on a product, it is enough to add 1-2 natural products to the composition (possibly in minimal quantities).

Organic cosmetics consist entirely of natural ingredients and do not use chemical technologies in their production. Such cosmetics must be labeled “COSMOS ORGANIC” or “COSMOS NATURAL”.

Korean cosmetics

Korean-made decorative and care products have become popular for a reason. Firstly, they are actively promoted on YouTube, and secondly, almost all products coming from Korea can boast of high quality.

It is worth noting that Korean products may not be suitable for women with very oily skin, since the cosmetics of this production are aimed at a fashionable trend in Asia - a dewy face. Asian women specifically try to give their face a “wet” effect, so manufacturers meet them and make products containing moisturizing and highlighting components.

Belarusian and Polish cosmetics

Lovers of inexpensive cosmetics believe that the best washing gels are made in Belarus or Poland. Surely, all the girls who follow fashion trends have noticed that cosmetics from these countries have become truly popular, even the most famous beauty bloggers recommend them to their subscribers.

Prices allow you to try different products and choose the ideal option, but in order not to buy everything, it is better to first look at reviews (with detailed descriptions and photos before and after use) or video tests.

Composition and fashion trends are not everything. Before purchasing a product, you should read the reviews on thematic websites. Choose a cleansing gel that has many good reviews from customers and cosmetologists. Look through the relevant tops, make your rating of the best washing gels based on skin type, financial capabilities and composition.

The best gel manufacturers

Based on fashion trends inspired by beauty bloggers and consumer reviews, we have selected the 5 most popular brands that make truly high-quality cleansing gels:

1. 1 L’Oreal is the undisputed leader in the production of cosmetic products. L’Oreal products are known even to those who are not interested in cosmetics.
2. 2 Vichy is a brand produced under the supervision of L’Oreal. It produces decent products with good ingredients.
3. 3 Kanebo - for over 7 years Kanebo has been one of the most popular brands in Japan. And over the past few years, it has become a leading manufacturer in the global market.
4. 4 Garnier - quality products and affordable prices are the main features of Garnier products.
5. 5 Cosmetex Roland is a Japanese company known throughout the world for the high quality of its products.

I would also like to mention: Ziaja, Lirene, Belkosmex, Glossier, Avene. These brands also produce high-quality products, but have not yet reached the level of popularity of the above-mentioned colleagues. Of course, only you can decide which face wash is worth buying; we only recommend paying attention to popular and fashionable brands.

The best cleansing gels for all skin types

5. Payot Mousse micellaire nettoyante

Does not contain “bad” components. Carefully removes make-up, but cannot cope with “heavy artillery”. Doesn't dry out the dermis. It is used economically and has a convenient dispenser. The aroma is floral, not intrusive. Suitable for any skin type, including mature and sensitive.

4. Clarins Pure Melt

The gel contains nourishing oils, in particular marula oil. Ideally nourishes and makes the skin velvety. Foams well and does not contain “bad” components. Deeply cleanses, gives freshness and light radiance. Not suitable for those who prefer a dull matte finish.

3. Cosmetex Roland Deep Cleansing Essence In Gel

The product is sold in a matte plastic tube. The smell is subtle and fresh. The gel is thick and foams well. The composition contains hyaluric acid and collagen. It works quickly with regular cosmetics; you don’t have to use micellar water. Removing waterproof makeup requires the use of additional cosmetics.

2. Natura Siberica Caviar de Russie

NATURA SIBERICA is positioned as natural cosmetics, without parabens, SLS and other harmful substances. The bottle has a protective mechanism that prevents leakage and blocks pressure when turning the dispenser. When pressed, a small amount of product will be released, but sufficient for washing. The gel has a pleasant texture, foams easily and is washed off the skin. Has a slight whitening effect. Its main feature is the content of acids that help cleanse the skin of dead cells.

1. Kanebo Refreshing Creamy Wash

A gentle product with a subtle scent. Available in a white tube. The product has the appearance of a cream, but upon contact with water it turns into a light foam. Doesn't dry out. Removes long-lasting makeup and city dust well. The composition is good, there is no alcohol or other aggressive substances.

The best cleansing gels for problematic and oily skin

3. Laroche-Posay EFFACLAR GEL

The pharmacy brand Laroche-Posay is recommended by many cosmetologists for patients with oily, acne-prone skin. The gel foams well and cleanses grease easily. Does not cause itching or redness. Sold in two volumes: 200 and 400 ml, the second is somewhat more profitable. When used sparingly, 400 ml of EFFACLAR lasts 4-5 months.

2. Garnier Skin Naturals

The product is suitable for those with oily, problem and combination skin. Helps get rid (with constant use!) of pimples and blackheads. Balances subcutaneous fat levels. Penetrates deeply into pores and cleanses them well. Exfoliates dead skin particles and activates regenerative processes.

1. Avene Cleanance

This is a therapeutic gel for washing with a cumulative effect, that is, with constant use, it will not only relieve you of oily skin and acne, but will also prevent their occurrence in the future. After washing, the skin becomes smooth and matte. The product relieves inflammation well and deeply cleanses pores. The gel dries the skin slightly, but this does not cause discomfort.

The best face washes for dry skin

3. Lirene Beauty Care Silky-Smooth Face Wash Cream-Gel

A budget-friendly product suitable for women over 20 years old suffering from dry skin. Moisturizes the dermis well and foams easily. After washing, the skin becomes nourished and smooth, and it will remain in this state until the next wash. It contains many useful components. Not suitable for allergy-prone skin, as it contains alcohol (in minimal quantities).

2. Vichy Purete Thermale Fresh Cleansing Gel

It cleanses the skin well of dust and makeup residues, but is not suitable for completely removing stubborn makeup. Does not tighten or dry the skin. Foams well and rinses off quickly. Improves protective functions. Nourishes and moisturizes. Gives skin elasticity and smoothness. Suitable for mature skin. There are no aggressive substances in the composition.

1. Biofarma SoulTree

Organic product based on wild honey, rose and turmeric. It is considered a healing agent, so it not only moisturizes the skin, but also nourishes it, preventing further drying. There is not a lot of foam, but it is enough to cleanse your face. The product does not remove stubborn makeup, but does an excellent job of removing cosmetic residues and city dust.

The best face washes for sensitive skin

3. L'Oreal Paris Skin Expert

A series of products for sensitive skin from L’Oreal Paris appeared on store shelves at the beginning of 2018 and have already gained popularity among ladies. The product easily removes makeup and maintains the optimal pH level of the epidermis. It is consumed quickly, but is inexpensive. It has a pleasant (not cloying) floral aroma.

2. Belkosmex Teebaum Face Gel-Foam

A super budget product that became especially popular in 2018. Previously, many bloggers spoke flatteringly about the mask from the same series, and now it’s time for a wash. The product is considered natural, suitable for sensitive and problematic skin. There is not much product in the tube (80 g), but considering the price, you can buy it at least every month.

1. Dermedic Tolerans Sensitive Creamy Face Gel

The product is a medicinal syndet gel that cleanses pores well and soothes sensitive skin. Does not cause allergies or irritation. Cleanses delicately, there is no feeling of dryness after use. It has a convenient dispenser and a laconic design.

The best natural cleansing gels

3. Bielenda Bouquet Nature Cucumber & Lime 3in1 Wash Gel + Scrub + Serum

Inexpensive, but high-quality Polish washing gel with an antibacterial effect. Perfectly removes make-up residue and city dust. Helps lighten light age spots. Cleanses and tones. Suitable for any skin type. It can be used as a gel for washing and as a peeling for the face, in both cases it works well.

2. Ziaja Jagody Acai Micellar Gel

This is an ideal product, both in terms of price and quality. It gently cleanses the skin, foams well and does not cause allergies. It is used sparingly, so a 200 ml jar will last for a long time. Since this is a micellar gel, you will not need additional makeup removers; you just need to wash your face with Ziaja Jagody Acai Micellar Gel.

1. Kosmystik Cleansing Face Gel

A quality product suitable for almost all girls. Does not cause allergies. The composition contains Dead Sea minerals, vitamin E and provitamin B5. Foams quickly and washes off easily. There is no feeling of tightness after use.

Which washing gel to choose

Cleansing gel is an important component of your facial care, so pay due attention to the choice of this product.

Algorithm for choosing a product:

1. Decide on your skin type; we have selected the optimal rating for each type.
2. Are you prone to allergies? If yes, then choose natural gels; the likelihood of allergies to their components is lower.
3. Be sure to check the washbasin before purchasing for the content of SLS and harmful surfactants described at the beginning of the article.
4. Decide on the maximum price. Prices for cleansers start from 100 rubles and end at 2000-3000. Decide how much money you are willing to spend on them.

We hope our small rating helped you with this. Take care of your skin, then it will respond to you with ideal smoothness and absence of inflammation.

Author: Veronika Krutinskaya, edited: 12/09/2018

The face is the most open, therefore the most vulnerable part of the human body. That is why we pay so much attention to caring for this area, we try to keep the skin in the best condition, we use protective, cleansing and healthy-looking products. Usually, a washing gel is selected empirically, but we decided to help you a little. The rating of the best washing gels presents the most effective products for different types of facial skin, providing high-quality cleansing of the epidermis and gentle care.

Gels as opposed to foams, creams, lotions, etc. have a gel-like consistency. They foam easily in wet palms or using a mesh. The effectiveness of the product depends on how well the manufacturer has selected a “cocktail” of surfactants (cleaners) and additional caring components (oils, fruit acids, plant extracts, etc.). It is also important how well the composition of the wash matches your skin type.

The best manufacturers of washing gels

Cleansing gel is a basic skin care product that is found in most facial care series of various brands. Conventionally, three groups of gels can be distinguished:

Pharmacy. The most popular are products from the brands Vichy, Avene, La Roche-Posay, Bioderma, Uriage, CeraVe. As a rule, they are dermatologically tested, hypoallergenic, fragrance-free, and often have not only a cosmetic, but also a therapeutic effect. The prices for such products are high, but the result lives up to expectations. If your skin has pronounced problems, welcome to the pharmacy.

Professional. Representatives of salon cosmetics can cause both delight and disappointment, since they are not cheap, and their effectiveness is not always the best. However, several brands caught our attention: Christina, Janssen, Holy Land - reviews of the gels for washing these forms are mostly positive. Korean washing gels occupy a special niche (in our rating this is the COSRX brand) - they are invariably praised for their high quality and reasonable price.

Mass market. In this category, the range of washing gels is large, as is the price range. There are many domestic and foreign brands represented, choosing from which is not an easy task. Let’s just say that gels from the “mass market” category may well suit the skin without significant problems. Even budget washbasins do their main task well. You just need to make sure that they do not dry out the epidermis.