Facial cleansing: The foundation for healthy, radiant skin
Thorough yet gentle facial cleansing is the first important step in any skincare routine. It rids the skin of makeup, sebum, dirt particles, and everyday residue. At the same time, it prepares the skin for subsequent skincare.
The right cleanser for every skin type
Every skin type has individual needs that should be considered when choosing the right cleanser. While dry and mature skin types often benefit from rich, nourishing textures, people with oily and blemish-prone skin often prefer lightweight, clarifying formulas. The good news: Natural cosmetics offer a wide selection of gentle cleansers for different skin needs.
Our cleansing categories at a glance
Cleansing gel
Light, refreshing gels with mild surfactants remove sebum and dirt from the skin without drying it out unnecessarily. A good choice for normal to oily skin and anyone who likes a fresh skin feel.
Cleansing cream & cleansing foam
Creamy textures and airy foams provide gentle cleansing with nourishing properties. Cleansing creams are often suitable for dry and sensitive skin, while foams offer a lightweight alternative for combination and oily skin types.
Cleansing oil & cleansing milk
Based on the principle that “oil dissolves oil,” these cleansers can remove makeup, sunscreen, and oil-soluble residue. Depending on the formula, cleansing oils and milks leave skin feeling pleasantly supple and are also suitable for dry and sensitive skin.
Cleansing balm
Many solid cleansing balms made with plant oils and waxes melt into an oil on contact with the skin. They dissolve makeup and sunscreen and can leave the skin feeling supple after rinsing.
Natural facial soap
Natural soaps made with plant oils are a solid alternative to liquid cleansers. When choosing one, it is worth paying attention to the ingredients and pH level, as not every soap is equally suitable for sensitive facial skin.
Micellar water
Micellar water removes makeup and dirt with the help of cleansing agents. It is easy to apply with a cotton pad or reusable makeup remover pad. Whether rinsing afterward is advisable depends on the product.
Facial exfoliator
Exfoliants with fine abrasive particles, acids or enzymes remove dead skin cells and can leave the complexion looking smoother. Physical exfoliants work through gentle massage; AHA and BHA exfoliants, as well as enzyme exfoliants, work differently and should be selected to suit your skin type.
Toners & facial toners
After cleansing, toners can refresh the skin, hydrate it or clarify the complexion. A toner’s properties depend on its formulation.
Face masks
Face masks complement your cleansing routine according to your skin’s needs. Whether hydrating, clarifying or deeply nourishing, there are suitable masks for different skin types.
Makeup remover
Depending on their formulation, specialized makeup removers can also dissolve waterproof eye makeup. For the delicate eye area, choose a gentle formula specifically designed for it.
Cleansing accessories
Reusable makeup remover pads, konjac sponges and muslin cloths complement your daily cleansing routine. Apply them gently without rubbing hard.
Why is daily facial cleansing so important?
Over the course of the day, various residues build up on our skin:
- Sebum and sweat
- Dead skin cells
- Makeup residue and sunscreen
- Environmental pollutants such as fine dust and exhaust fumes
These residues can build up on the skin’s surface. If makeup, sunscreen and excess sebum are not removed, they may contribute to blemishes for those prone to them.
Gentle cleansing in the evening removes these residues and prepares the skin for your nighttime skincare routine. In the morning, a short, gentle cleanse is enough to remove sweat and excess sebum, depending on your skin type.
The right cleansing routine: Less is more
Although thorough cleansing is important, don’t overdo it. Cleansing too often or too aggressively can compromise the skin barrier, dry out the skin and promote irritation.
Recommended cleansing frequency:
- Cleanse thoroughly in the evening, especially after wearing makeup or sunscreen
- In the morning, cleanse gently or refresh with water, depending on your skin type
- Cleanse after heavy sweating if needed
- For dry or sensitive skin, cleanse only as often as necessary
Natural facial cleansers: Gentle cleansing for different skin types
Depending on the product, natural facial cleansers use mild cleansing agents, plant oils and selected extracts. The ingredients used and how well a cleanser is tolerated depend on its specific formulation. Typical ingredients include:
- Mild, plant-derived cleansing agents
- Plant oils and selected extracts
- Moisturizing ingredients such as glycerin
- Depending on the product, liquid or solid cleansing textures
The key is for your skin to feel clean after cleansing, but not uncomfortably tight. Natural ingredients alone are no guarantee of better tolerance or a better environmental impact.
How to find the perfect cleanser for your skin
Choosing the right cleanser depends on several factors: your skin type, personal preferences, and any skin concerns.
Dry and mature skin:
Rich textures such as cleansing oils, balms, or milks can feel especially pleasant. They remove residue without leaving a pronounced feeling of tightness.
Oily and blemish-prone skin:
Light gels and foams cleanse excess sebum. If you’re prone to clogged pores, products with salicylic acid may be useful, provided your skin tolerates them.
Sensitive skin:
Very gentle formulas, possibly without essential oils or fragrances, may be a good choice. Tolerance always depends on the overall formula.
Combination skin:
Balanced cleansers that are neither too rich nor too drying are often suitable for different areas of the face. If needed, you can target specific areas with tailored care.
How to use it for the best results
For an effective, skin-friendly cleanse, follow these steps:
- Use lukewarm water - water that is too hot can dry out and irritate your skin
- Gently massage in the cleanser without rubbing hard
- Follow the directions and leave-on time stated on the product
- Rinse off rinse-off cleansers thoroughly
- Gently pat your skin dry instead of rubbing
- Then apply your usual moisturizer; toner is optional
Double cleansing: The Korean cleansing method
A two-step cleanse can be useful, especially if you wear makeup or sunscreen:
Step 1 - Oil-based cleansing:
An oil-based cleanser (oil, balm, or milk) dissolves makeup and oil-soluble residue such as sunscreen.
Step 2 - Water-based cleansing:
If needed, follow with a mild water-based cleanser (gel or foam) to remove any remaining residue.
Whether both steps are necessary depends on the product you use, your skin type, and how much makeup or sunscreen you wear.
Healthy skin starts with the right cleanser
A facial cleanser suited to your skin type is a good foundation for well-cared-for skin. It removes residue and prepares your skin for the skincare that follows. Above all, it’s important to choose a product that cleanses effectively while also feeling pleasant on your skin.
Discover our selection of natural facial cleansers and find the right texture for your skincare routine - from cleansing gel and cleansing oil to gentle balm.