Most of you choose face cleansers based on the brand, as you take it for granted that any product from a reputed brand will definitely be good for your skin. However, this may not always be the right decision to make. As studies show that one of the main reason why skin does not look its best is, the use of products not suited to skin type.

Today, with myriad beauty products flooding the market, you are spoilt for choice. But along with a wide variety of face cleansers to choose from, you need to have the right information about different skin types and zero down on the product that best fits your skin type. Any cleanser that works well for your skin is considered good for you.

Understanding different skin types:

Oily skin:

Oily skin has a greasy shine. It is prone to open pores, blackheads, pimples and blemishes. Most teenagers have an oily skin but it is common in adults too. Those with an oily skin feel the need to wash their face frequently.

• The type of cleanser recommended:

A clear gel based face wash or a cleanser is ideal for oily skin types. Use of cleansing milk or creamy cleansers must be avoided. Luke warm water can be used to wash face, but the last splash must be with cold water so that the pores on the skin are closed. For acne prone skin, face washes with salicylic acid, glycolic acid and tea tree oil are proven to be helpful.These deep cleanse the pores, balance the oils and reduce outbursts of acne/pimples.

Dry skin:

Dry skin tends to give a dull and parched look and looks tired especially on cheeks and around the eyes. Also, there are fine wrinkles seen near the undereye area and on the corners of the mouth.

• The type of cleanser recommended:

Those with a dry skin must use a creamy face wash that does not strip the natural oils off the skin. For a very dry skin, a face wash can be replaced by cleansing milk. Also, baby oil must be used for make-up removal, so that the skin does not get too dry and remains supple.

Combination skin:

This is the most common skin type characterized by an oily T zone (forehead and nose) and dry cheeks. It can show signs of problems pertaining to both, oily and dry skin types. Combination skin normally has to be treated keeping in mind, two skin types, oily and dry, wherein products meant for an oily skin are used on the T zone and those meant for dry skin are used on the rest of the face.

Sensitive skin:

Sensitive skin  reacts easily to both heat and cold. It is generally dry,thin in texture,has a delicate look and is prone to irritation and allergic reactions.

• Type of cleanser recommended:

Choose from products which are tested for sensitive skin.Most reputed companies have special products which are very gentle and are designed especially for sensitive skin. Ask for these products or look for the sensitive skin label on your face wash. Do not unnecessarily keep changing your products as there is a chance of developing an allergic reaction. Also do not experiment with home remedies like besan,haldi etc ,they too can cause eruptions when you have sensitive skin.

Normal skin:

This type of skin is the one with the least problems. It has an even tone and a smooth texture. This type of skin is supple and glows with inner health. However, it needs to be cared for, so that it stays healthy and normal. Wrong products can make it oily or dry.

Beautiful normal skin has to be constantly nurtured and looked after, and must not be taken for granted. The label on the face wash mentions whether it is for normal skin or for all skin types. Stress, hormonal changes, climatic conditions etc may make even normal skin oily or dry. One must be sensitive to these changes.

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