Trying to find the right skin product for you face can be confusing, especially with the myriad of different types of facial washes available. Knowing your skin type--normal, oily, dry, combination or sensitive--can help you choose which product will work for you. Surfactants are the active cleansing substances in face washes that stick to the oil and dirt so that they are easier to wash away, and are included in most soaps, synthetic detergents, masks, cloths and wipes, according to the DermNet NZ website.
Soap
Soap is available as a liquid or in bar form. Bar soaps contain a variety of ingredients depending on the brand, but alkalis--ingredients with an alkaline pH--predominate. The alkalis are mixed with fats and oils to produce glycerine, which is a non-oily substance that helps attract moisture to your skin. However, if you have sensitive skin, the alkalis in soap can irritate you skin. In addition, soap can leave carbonate salt deposits that form a white residue on the skin after washing, which increase the potential for irritation.
Syndets
Syndets are synthetically produced detergents that date back to the 1950s, according to DermNet NZ. In comparison to regular soap, syndets cost more, but are soap-less and contain a lower pH level so they are not as alkaline as soaps. The petroleum-based chemicals used to produce syndets react better in hard water conditions compared to soap. Syndets cause less dryness, dirt and oil build-up, and skin irritation than soaps.
Medicated
If you have oily skin and are acne-prone, using a medicated facial cleanser with benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid may help with your skin condition. These medicated facial washes help to exfoliate dead skin cells, and reduce dry skin and acne that occurs from the bacteria Propionibacterium acne. However, when using medicated cleansers, avoiding exposure to sunlight or artificial ultraviolet rays is advisable. You skin may be more sensitive after use, so applying a sunscreen with a minimum SPF 15 or wearing protective clothing will help decrease the potential risk of sun damage.
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