The Best Face Cleansers for Your Skin Type

Aug. 24, 2010— -- When it comes to your morning beauty routine, the first step is washing your face. But before you reach for any old bar of soap, know that not all cleansers are created equal for all skin types. Whether you have oily skin, dry skin or some combination, there are different cleansers that will keep your skin looking luminous.

For oily skin: People with oily skin do well with a gel based or "soapy" cleanser. This will help clean out pores and strip away excess oil. CLICK HERE for more tips for oily skin.

For dry skin: People with dry skin should look for a creamy, soothing and moisturizing cleanser. Look for cleansers that contain glycerin and hylauronic acid because these ingredients draw water to the surface of the skin. Avoid foam cleansers, which tend to be drying. While cleansing the face, be sure to use massaging motions to stimulate oil-producing glands. CLICK HERE for more.

For combination skin: Wash your face with a gentle, water-soluble cleanser that does not leave skin feeling tight or dry. Most combination skin types do well with gel-based or mildly foaming cleansers. CLICK HERE for more.

For sensitive skin: Glycerin is a key ingredient to look for in cleansers for sensitive skin. Glycerin improves and protects skin by filling up the intercellular matrix and also helps in building an even skin structure. It attracts just the right amount of moisture required to hydrate skin, but it is gentle and has no side effects, which makes it perfect for sensitive skin types. Since sensitive skin is prone to irritation, be sure to opt for odor-free products.

As a general rule of thumb, here is what you should know to care for skin at any age:

30s: In your 30s, your skin loses its ability to retain water as it once did. Its renewal powers also slow down and it starts producing less collagen and elastin. Due to these factors, fine lines can start to develop, skin tone can turn dull and skin can begin to obtain a rough texture. Another common problem for this age group is increased skin sensitivity or conditions like rosacea. CLICK HERE for more information.