Face Wash vs. Cleanser: What’s the Difference & Which One Should You Use

If you’ve ever stood in front of your mirror wondering whether you should reach for a face wash or a cleanser, you’re not alone. Both products are meant to clean your skin, but they work differently and suit different needs. Understanding these differences can help you build a routine that actually works for your skin and not against it.

Face Wash vs. Cleanser: What’s the Actual Difference?

A cleanser is designed to clean your skin without stripping it. Textures vary (creamy, milky, gel-based), but the intent is the same: remove dirt, impurities, and light makeup, while keeping your skin comfortable. Cleansers are ideal if your skin is dry, sensitive, or tends to feel tight after using foaming products.

A face wash, on the other hand, is formulated to give a deeper, more refreshing cleanse. It usually foams up and helps break down excess oil, sweat and pollution more effectively. Instead of using a cleanser for oily skin, using a face wash gives your skin that extra level of purification.

Which One Should You Use?

If you have oily or combination skin

A face wash often works better because it removes excess oil and gives you a refreshed, mattified finish. The Body Shop’s Tea Tree Skin Clearing Facial Wash is a popular pick for this skin type. It contains Community Fair Trade tea tree oil and helps deeply cleanse without feeling harsh, making it ideal as a daily face wash for oil control.

You can also explore the Seaweed Oil-Control Face Wash, formulated for combination skin. It helps control shine while keeping the skin’s natural moisture intact.

If you have dry, sensitive, or reactive skin

A cleanser is gentler and prevents unnecessary dryness. A creamy formula like The Body Shop Aloe Soothing Cream Cleanser works beautifully if your skin easily feels irritated. It removes impurities without disrupting your skin’s natural barrier.

If you wear makeup daily

A cleanser is ideal for breaking down makeup without tugging at your skin. Many people follow it up with a face wash in the evening, a method known as double cleansing, to ensure there’s no residue left behind.

A face wash, on the other hand, is formulated to give a deeper, more refreshing cleanse. It usually foams up and helps break down excess oil, sweat and pollution more effectively. Instead of using a cleanser for oily skin, using a face wash gives your skin that extra level of purification.

Understanding the Cleanser and Face Wash Difference in Daily Routine

Here’s how the difference plays out in day-to-day skincare:

AM:A gentle cleanser is usually enough to remove sweat and overnight oil.
PM:If you’ve been outdoors, wearing makeup, double cleansing helps. Start with a cleanser and follow with a face wash suited to your skin type.

It’s not about choosing one forever; it’s about using each product strategically.

Do You Need Both?

Not necessarily. But many people benefit from keeping both on hand. Think of it as having two styles of cleansing, depending on your skin’s behaviour that day. If your skin feels greasy or congested, reach for a face wash. If it feels dry, tired, or sensitive, choose a cleanser.

At The Body Shop, we have a range of options that make it easy to pick what your skin needs on a given day, whether it’s the refreshing Tea Tree facial wash or a comforting cream cleanser from the Aloe line.

Final Thoughts

The cleanser and face wash difference is simple but meaningful. A cleanser focuses on gentle, balanced cleaning, while a face wash delivers a more thorough, clarifying cleanse. Your skin type and lifestyle will tell you which one deserves a spot in your routine or whether you may want both.

Choose based on what your skin needs, stay consistent with your routine, and build a cleansing ritual that supports healthy, clear, comfortable skin every day.