The product details below describe the US cleansers; Canadian names and skin type recommendations differ. There is no established winner here for sunscreen removal, so choose by skin comfort and the sunscreen you wear rather than treating lather as a certificate of completion.12
What is actually different?
| Feature | Hydrating Facial Cleanser | Hydrating Cream to Foam Cleanser |
|---|---|---|
| Texture | Cream, without a foaming finish | Rich cream that becomes a soft foam with water |
| US skin type positioning | Normal to dry skin | Normal to dry skin, including sensitive skin |
| Highlighted ingredients | Ceramides and hyaluronic acid | Ceramides, hyaluronic acid and amino acids |
| Cleansing claims | Gently removes dirt, oil and makeup | Removes dirt, oil and makeup, including long wear facial makeup |
| Practical reason to choose | You prefer a creamy wash | You prefer lather and need facial makeup removal |
Which should you pick for your skin?
Hydrating is the more straightforward choice if your skin is dry or sensitive and you prefer a cream cleanser. Cream cleansers are generally less drying than foaming cleansers. Cream to Foam is still positioned for normal to dry skin in the US, so its lather does not automatically make it an oily skin product. In Canada, CeraVe also recommends Cream to Foam for combination skin, where some areas are oily and others dry.123
Do you need a second cleanser for sunscreen?
Most people only need one thorough wash with a gentle cleanser. Double cleansing means using an oil cleanser first, then a water based cleanser, not simply washing twice with the same bottle. An oil cleanser can help break down waterproof sunscreen and waterproof makeup. Wearing sunscreen does not automatically create a vacancy for another cleanser in your bathroom.3
Reserve the extra step for a removal need rather than making it compulsory every night. Overwashing can cause dryness, irritation and damage to the skin barrier, the outer layer that helps retain moisture. If you are prone to acne, an oil cleanser can cause breakouts, particularly when used alone.3
How to wash off sunscreen at night
- 1For waterproof sunscreen, use an oil cleanser first if needed. Gently massage it into your skin, rinse with lukewarm water and leave your face damp.
- 2For a single cleanse, wet your skin with lukewarm water. Avoid hot water, which can dry the skin.
- 3Gently massage your cleanser with your hands. CeraVe directs you to use gentle circular motions with Cream to Foam, then rinse well. Your hands are less abrasive than a washcloth.
- 4Pat your face dry with a soft towel rather than rubbing.
- 5Apply any skin medication or treatment after cleansing, then moisturizer. Sunscreen belongs in the morning routine, after moisturizer.
Use the evening cleanse to remove the day's sunscreen and makeup. General face washing guidance is morning and night; the optional oil cleansing step is for removal, not a requirement at both washes. Cream to Foam can be used at any time of day. Avoid direct eye contact and rinse thoroughly with water if contact occurs.12
What if your face feels tight or irritated?
Dryness, tightness, flaking or increased sensitivity can signal that a cleanser is too harsh. Do not respond by adding more washes. Introduce fewer new products at once so you can assess the change. If a product causes skin irritation or contact dermatitis, an inflammatory skin reaction, stop using it and make an appointment with a dermatologist.14
Where this answer comes from
- 1Choose the Best Facial Cleanser for Your Skincerave.ca
- 2Hydrating Cream-to-Foam Cleanser | Facial Cleansercerave.com
- 3Double Cleansing Method Explainedhealth.clevelandclinic.org
- 4The Correct Order for Skin Care Productshealth.clevelandclinic.org
- 5Should I apply my skin care products in a certain order?aad.org
