When we think of soap, we often think of the common bar soap that can be found virtually anywhere. However, when it comes to skincare, soap is much more diverse. When used on the face such soap is referred to as cleanser and choosing the right one is very important in keeping your complexion clean and happy.

Even though this should be common knowledge, it is still important to state that using bar soap on your face is a huge skincare no-no. Bar soap is designed to be used on the body and the skin on your face is completely different than that of the rest of your body. Using bar soap on your complexion as cleanser will make it dry and strip your face of its natural oils. Bar soap on the face can also clog the pores, throw off the skin’s pH, and can leave residue. When looking for a cleanser for your face, it is good to know what types of soap are out there and which will work best with your skin and skin type.

There is a type of bar soap that is made specifically for the complexion but is completely different from regular bar soap. These are known as dermatological soap bars or cakes. The major difference between dermatological bars and regular soap is the chemicals used. Additionally, dermatological bars contain a number of ingredients that are needed to treat skin that is suffering from certain skin conditions. For example, those with acne prone skin can opt for a dermatological bar with benzoyl peroxide and other anti-acne properties. Other types of dermatological bars contain additives to keep the skin’s pH balance normal, as well as emollients to prevent dryness.

Emulsions are a more skincare friendly type of cleansing soap that comes in the forms of cleansing creams, milky liquid cleansers, and cold creams. This type of facial soap is gentler on the skin, making it suitable for sensitive skin types. Emulsions are made from a combination of waxes, mineral oil, water, and petroleum that help to cleanse and moisturize the skin. While this type of facial soap does not disrupt the skin’s pH balance, it may clog pores so it is important to find the right kind of emulsion cleanser for your skin.

For other skin types, liquid cleansers are ideal. This type of cleanser is actually not considered “soap” since it doesn’t contain any alkalis or fatty acids that regular soap does. As a result, liquid cleansers are much gentler on the skin and less likely to cause irritation or inflammation. This type of cleanser usually contains propylene glycol, glycerin, or cetyl alcohol. Such cleansers are great for removing makeup and effectively getting rid of surface dirt, oils, and bacteria, but can leave a fine trace of moisturizing film on the skin. There are liquid cleansers for just about every skin type out there.

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