All Cleansers Are Not The Same

There are a wide range of ingredients used to formulate facial cleansers, so it is important to understand how cleansers work. Facial cleansers function in three basic ways:

1. To remove surface debris, make-up and oil.
2. To dissolve the bonds that hold dead skin cells to the surface of the skin.
3. To prepare the skin to better absorb treatment and moisturizing products.

Most drug-store cleansers remove surface dirt and oil, but they do little to promote cell turnover and prepare the skin for the benefits of the products that follow. In fact, many cleansers leave the skin feeling either tight and dry or like a film of oil has been left on the skin, counteracting the effects of applying additional products. Additionally, they typically include fragrances, dyes, or oils that can irritate skin, leaving it red or sensitized.

A good facial cleanser is usually very lightweight, most likely a gel-based formula rather than a cream-based formula, and contains some concentration of either salicylic acid for oilier skin, or hyaluronic acid for drier skin. Cleansing is an important first step for all skin types, but for oily, acne-prone skin, it’s critical. The key to managing oily skin is gently exfoliating dull, dry skin cells that trap bacteria, reducing excess oil with salicylic acid, and neutralizing free radicals.

ZO Skin Health Exfoliating Cleanser does all of that and goes one step further by boosting collagen production. It uses encapsulated beads with Vitamin E—the most important anti-oxidant for healthy skin. For dry skin types, you’ll want a gentle cleanser that will not disrupt the moisture barrier. ZO Skin Health Hydrating Cleanser hydrates, rejuvenates, and uses panthenol to soothe, repair, and restore skin, allantoin to clean away dead skin cells and support cellular renewal, and hyaluronic acid for additional hydration support. Dirt, make-up, and premature aging down the drain—washing your face never felt so good.