A cleanser is one which removes dirt, sweat, sebum, micro-organisms (bacteria etc.), dead cells (stratum corneum) and make-up if used from the skin surface.
Cleansing comprises of three stages:
- Wetting.
- Emulsification and removal of grease.
- Rinsing.
Deeply ingrained dirt, particularly in the pores of the hair follicles and sweat glands can be removed by warming the skin with hot water or a mild steam bath.
Normal pH of the skin is 4.5 to 5.5, this acidic pH changes to alkaline due to application of cleanser and gives a feeling of freshness in the skin.
Types of cleansers:
Soaps and cleansing bars: They are derived from fatty acids and tri-glycerides (fats and oils).
Routine bars.
Deodorant or anti-microbicidal bars:
These have an added anti-bacterial agent to eradicate bacteria. These soaps have a pH between 9 – 10 and may cause skin irritation. They are good for oily skin.
Moisturising base:
These have moisturising agents like lanolin or glycerin. Their pH is between 5 – 7, thus they are non-irritant. They are good for dry skin.
Functions: Soaps help cleansing, perfume the bath, softens the water, forms lather and gives the skin a cool and fresh feeling.
Lipid free cleansers / Face wash:
These contain water, glycerin, cetyl alcohol and do not contain any fat. They clean without soap formation and leave a thin moisturising film. They are good for sensitive and photo aged skin.
Cleansing creams:
They are oil based products which remove grease and cosmetics on the skin by dissolving it in more oil. They are good for dry skin.
Cleansing Lotion:
It is a water based product and is good for normal and dry skin. Since it is water based,it can be easily rinsed with water. It is commonly sold as pore cleanser.
Exfoliants:
Help in removing dead cells (stratum corneum cells) from the skin.
Abrasive scrubs:
They aid in removing dead cells and control excess sebum secretion. They are mechanical exfoliants made of granules in form of Aluminum oxide, ground fruit pits etc.
Cleansing masks / packs:
Setting masks – containing Fuller’s earth (‘Multani Mitti’).
Peel-off masks – containing gel and latex.
Non-setting masks – containing cold cream or oil packs.
Setting and peel-off masks achieve cleansing, exfoliation and skin-tightening. They also refresh the skin. Non-setting masks only clean the skin.