A Guide to Water-Based Cleansers

Cleansing your skin is essential for maintaining nourished looking skin and knowing what is in your cleanser is important for the appearance of dryness or irritation. Water-based cleansers are gentle and effectively remove sweat and visible impurities without disrupting the skin’s natural moisture. Choosing the right cleanser helps keep your skin looking, refreshed, and ready for the rest of your routine.

What Is a Water-Based Cleanser?

A water-based cleanser is a skincare product formulated to remove visible impurities, sweat, and excess oil using water-soluble ingredients. These cleansers effectively cleanse the skin without stripping away its natural moisture, making them ideal for maintaining nourished looking skin. Water-based cleansers work by lathering the product with water to leave the skin feeling fresh and moisturized. In comparison, oil-based cleansers should not be mixed with water.

Types of Water-Based Cleansers

Gel Cleansers

Gel cleansers are ideal for normal, oily and acne-prone skin. Gel cleansers help remove visible impurities without leaving residue on the skin.  

Cream Cleansers

Cream cleansers are ideal for dry or sensitive skin. They moisturize the skin while gently cleansing,  without tightness and irritation.  

How Do Water-Based Cleansers Work?

Water-based cleansers mix with water to wash away sweat, light oils, and other surface impurities. They create a gentle lather that lifts dirt from the pores while visibly maintaining the skin’s moisture barrier. These cleansers are an essential first step in many skincare routines, leaving the skin prepped for toners, serums, and moisturizers.  

How Are These Different Than Other Cleansers?

Compared to oil-based cleansers, water-based options focus on removing water-soluble impurities, such as sweat and dirt. While oil-based cleansers break down makeup and sunscreen, water-based cleansers are better suited for lightweight daily cleansing. Many individuals also combine these products in a double-cleansing routine for the best results.  

Benefits of Water-Based Cleansers

Gentle on the Skin

Ideal for individuals of all skin types including those with sensitive skin, water-based cleansers reduce the risk of skin irritation.  

Helps with visible Dryness and Irritation

Water-based cleansers are formulated to visibly maintain the skin’s natural moisture.  

Effective for Removing Sweat and Light Impurities

Water-based cleansers are beneficial for refreshing your skin after a workout.  

Good for Oily and Combination Skin

Water-based cleansers can help with the appearance of excess oil production without over-drying your skin.  

Pairs Well with Double Cleansing

Individuals needing that extra cleanse may find that water-based cleansers work excellently as the second step to cleanse thoroughly.  

Suitable for Daily Use

Water-based cleansers are gentle enough to use every morning and night.  

Non-Comedogenic

Water-based cleansers are known for their ability to help keep pores unclogged, reducing the risk of breakouts.  

Our Water-Based Cleansers

At Epicuren Discovery, most of our cleansers are expertly formulated as water-based, providing gentle yet effective cleansing for every skin type. The only exception is our Silk Radiance 3-in-1 Cleansing Oil, which contains a blend of oils to nourish and moisturize the skin while removing visible impurities. Whether you need a refreshing gel, hydrating cream, or clarifying solution, our water-based cleansers offer formulations and benefits for daily use.

Best Water-Based Cleansers for Each Skin Type

Take Our Skin Quiz Today

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FAQs

How do I know if my cleanser is oil or water-based? 

Check the ingredients to see if your cleanser is water-based. Oil-based cleansers list oils as primary ingredients, while water-based cleansers feature water or water-soluble compounds at the top.  

What is the difference between a face wash and a water-based cleanser?

A face wash typically has more foaming agents and can be harsher on the skin, while water-based cleansers are gentler and focus on maintaining the appearance of moisturized skin.   

Is salicylic acid cleanser water-based?

Many salicylic acid cleansers are water-based and designed to help with the appearance of oil production without clogging pores.  

How do I know if my skincare is water-based?

Look for water or aqua listed as the first ingredient and avoid formulations with heavy oils at the top of the list. 

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