Cleansing Gel: For which skin type is it suitable?

The cleansing gel is a treatment used with the intention of lifting impurities from the skin's surface. Indeed, the skin endures numerous external aggressions throughout the day and quickly accumulates dust, allergens, sebum, sweat, etc. If these elements are not removed, they may weaken the skin, cause blemishes, and hinder the application of treatments. That's why it's crucial to cleanse the skin once or twice a day, using for instance a cleansing gel.

The selection of a cleanser is not solely based on a texture preference, it should also be tailored to the specific needs of the skin and its typology.

Cleansing gels are traditionally linked with combination to oily skin types. Prone to overproduction of sebum, either localised or generalised, these skin types tend to have a shiny appearance and are particularly affected by issues of enlarged pores and blemishes. This hyperactivity of the sebaceous glands, the organs that synthesise sebum, is primarily influenced by hormonal and genetic factors, although certain external aggressions, such as stress or pollution, can also play a role. To limit the effects of sebum overproduction, effective cleansing is essential and the cleansing gel emerges as an interesting option thanks to its light and refreshing texture, which easily removes excess sebum and impurities accumulated throughout the day.

It's important to note that, contrary to popular belief, combination to oily skin types also require a gentle cleansing gel that respects their skin barrier. By stripping the hydrolipidic film, overly detergent products send an alarm signal to the sebaceous glands, which respond by producing even more sebum to compensate. This phenomenon, known as the "rebound effect", exacerbates oily skin problems instead of improving them. Therefore, it's preferable to choose a purifying but gentle cleansing gel, containing sebum-regulating active ingredients, such as zinc, charcoal or salicylic acid, as well as moisturising ingredients, such as glycerine or aloe vera, like the purifying cleansing gel from Typology.

Regarding dry skin, the use of a cleansing gel is possible, even though it's generally not the most suitable option. Indeed, after washing, dry skin, already suffering from a weakened hydrolipidic film, tends to experience feelings of tightness, or even show redness. That's why it's often recommended to opt for a cleansing milk or a washing cream, treatments with a rich and enveloping texture and containing nourishing actives, such as shea butter or vegetable oils. Some hydrating cleansing gels, enriched with humectant agents, may be suitable for dry skin but, in most cases, a more enveloping formula is more suitable and helps to preserve the skin's balance and avoid irritations.

Note : At Typology, we offer a exfoliating cleansing gel suitable for all skin types. Particularly recommended for those with dull complexions or prone to blackheads, this gel can certainly be used occasionally by dry skin types, for instance once or twice a week, to provide the skin with micro-exfoliation and deep cleansing.