Removing sunscreen with a best face cleanser is just as important as using sunscreen daily—especially when using water resistant sunscreens that don’t wash off with just water. But when it comes to effective sunscreen removal, should you choose a foam cleanser or an oil-based cleanser? Let’s decode that in this article!
What Does Science Say?
A 2019 study (Chen W et al.) found that:
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Non-waterproof sunscreen was effectively removed with both a foam cleanser (15.6% residue) and a biphasic cleanser (13.4% residue).
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Waterproof sunscreen was much harder to remove. The biphasic cleanser performed significantly better (only 5.8% residue) compared to a foam cleanser (36.8% residue).
Which Face Cleanser Should You Use?
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Foam cleansers – Great for removing non-waterproof sunscreen and suitable for people with oily skin, but they may cause dryness in some individuals.
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Oil based cleansers – Best for removing waterproof sunscreen and ideal for dry or sensitive skin, as they offer gentler removal without stripping moisture.
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Biphasic cleansers (Oil + Water-based) – The ideal choice for oily, acne-prone skin, as they remove waterproof sunscreen without clogging pores, unlike balm-type cleansers.
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Gentle cleansers – These are best for dry skin but may not remove sunscreen residues effectively. Pair them with a biphasic makeup remover or an oil based cleanser for a thorough cleanse.
Find Your Best Face Cleanser at CHOSEN
At CHOSEN, we have curated some of the best face washes and cleansers for oily skin and gentle cleansers for dry skin—explore them here to find the perfect match for your skin care routine!
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