These days, there is so much skinformation (see what I did there?!) out there, it's often hard to figure out what, exactly, is right for you. Should you go with the best new all natural product you're seeing everywhere, or your trusty old drugstore go-to? How can you pick out the best cleanser for your skin?
Everyone's skin is different (duh) and no matter how great a product may be, it doesn't mean it's right for all types of skin. Sadly, just because something works for Kendall/Kim/Kylie/Kourtney/Khloe/Kris doesn't mean that it will work for you (which is a bummer, because they all have #flawless skin). Recommendations from celebrities, influencers and even the media (including me) can only get you so far, which is why it's important to get to know your own skin and what it needs.
A good skincare routine starts with a good cleanser, and while most of them look pretty much the same, there are actually a few subtle differences that make some more right for your than others. Bar soaps and foaming cleansers are great if you have oily skin, while anything with the words "milk," "balm" or "oil" are best if you're dried out.
Here is an easy, three-step process, care of the legendary Dr. Howard Murad, to determine how to pick the best cleanser for you.
1. Know Your Skin Type
Murad Daily Foaming Cleanser, $30, Sephora
Take time to figure out what your skin needs: Do you have oily, combination, or dry skin? "Your skin type can help determine the cleanser and regimen that is suitable for your skin type," says Dr. Murad. "For example, foamy and light cleansers which remove excess oil without drying out the skin are geared toward oily or combination skin types, whereas thicker and creamier cleansers will help add hydration back into dry skin." So — if you are oily, go with a foam, if you are dry, opt for a cream.
2. Address Your Skin Concerns
Murad Time Release Acne Cleanser, $32, Sephora
Once you've figured out what the baseline is for your skin, it's time to ask yourself what exactly you need. This way, you can seek out a cleanser that is specifically catered to fix your problems. For example, if you have oily, acne prone skin, Dr. Murad suggests looking for a clarifying cleanser with salicylic acid and green tea extract to soothe acne stressed skin. If you have sun spots, go with something that says "brightening" to help minimize their appearance.
3. Consider Other Factors
Murad Refreshing Cleanser, $36, Sephora
You should be using your cleanser to work with your lifestyle, and that starts with what you put into your body. According to Dr. Murad, a cleanser can really only do so much for your skin. "Healthy skin is a reflection of how you live your overall life, that’s why I treat skincare from within as well," he says. "Incorporate proper nutrition, eat a balanced diet centered on nutritious, water-rich foods (like watermelon!) and your skin will thank you later."
Looking for some gadgets to help with cleansing your face? Check out these handy tools that you can use with your new favorite face cleanser.
Images: Isla Murray/Bustle; Courtesy of Brands
