Foam Cleanser Vs Cream Cleanser: Which One Should You Pick?

If you are stuck in an internal debate of Cream Cleanser vs Foaming Cleanser, don’t fret!

It’s tough to choose from all of the different types of facial cleansers.

No worries, though, I’m here to help you with everything you need to know about these two types, so you can make the right choice.

Keep reading to learn more…!

Table of Contents

What Are Cleansers and What Do They Do?

Cleansers are a staple product in every skincare regime, with the primary purpose of removing dirt, sweat, oil, and make-up residue from the face.

Although, the extent of the skincare routine is not just limited to “cleanse, tone, moisturize” anymore, the cleanser still has an important part to play in the initial stage of every skincare routine.

different types of cleansers on top of a table

However, everyone has a different skin type. So, there are multiple types of cleansers that cater to each one.

Two of the most extensively used cleansers are Foam cleansers and Cream Cleansers. If you wish to include one of these in your skincare cycle, continue reading!

Foam Cleanser

If you have been using cleansers for a while, chances are you know what a foam cleanser is. But if you are new, then the bubbly, foamy cleanser that lathers up quickly is a foam cleanser.

Its main purpose is to deep cleanse and rid skin’s inner layers of all the gunk stuck in it.

The lather penetrates the deeper layers of the skin and prevents clogging of pores. These cleansers lather up quickly when in contact with water, and can be in the form of a thick paste.

These days the Korean beauty products are capturing the market. Many users claim these products to be very effective. So, try the best Korean foaming cleanser if you haven’t already.

What Skin Type is Foaming Cleanser Best For?

Pimply and oily skin types should use a foaming cleanser. These products thoroughly clean your skin and really get deep down to lift out all of the gunk that leads to acne.

When considering popular gentle cleansers like the CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser or the Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser, it’s important to note that they might not provide the same deep-cleansing action as some foaming cleansers specifically formulated for oily or acne-prone skin.

That doesn’t mean they aren’t effective, but their primary design is for hydration and gentle cleansing, which might not always be the best choice for individuals with oily and acne-prone skin.

Bottom line, both oily skin and acne-prone skin need deep cleansing all the time and no other product can do it as well as a foaming cleanser.

Choose a good Korean acne cleanser that’s is designed to keep acne-causing bacteria and gunk at bay. However, beware of SLS (Sodium Lauryl Sulfate) as many users are sensitive to it.

This synthetic agent could be harsh on certain faces and work for others. Generally, pick a more natural and chemical-free foam cleanser.

Cream Cleanser

If you are not a fan of those bubbles and suds altogether and prefer mild but effective cleansing instead, you’ll love using a cream cleanser.

Cream cleansers basically elevate the lathery factor of cleaning by adding emulsifiers and natural oils to enhance the cleaning experience.

lady using cream cleanser to wash her face

True to its name this cleanser is in the form of a cream. You can apply it, lightly massage it and then wash or wipe it off with a wet towel.

These are easier to use than any other type of cleanser and equally effective.

What Skin Type is Cream Cleanser Best For?

These cleansers are mostly made up of milk or natural ingredients combined with essential oils, which makes them great for most skin types.

Sensitive, dry skin types especially should go for a cream cleanser. The rich creams help deliver moisture deep down, where your skin needs it most.

Moreover, the new and improved addition of cream cleansers has anti-oxidants that slow down skin aging. So, if you have wrinkles or fine lines start using a cream cleanser today!

Cream Cleanser Vs Foaming Cleanser: Which One Should You Pick?

Still unsure about which one to pick? Let’s look at the advantages and disadvantages of each to help you decide.

Advantages of foaming cleanser.

Excess oil and pimple-causing germs cannot be eliminated by soap and water alone, for that you need a strong cleansing agent like a foam cleanser.
Foam cleansers are great at cleaning the produced sebum and offer a deep cleansing experience.
Rids the skin of dead skin cells regularly.

Disadvantages of foaming cleanser

SLS could cause allergic reactions if your skin is intolerant to it.
Foam cleansers could be a little harsh sometimes.
It may contain chemical or synthetic ingredients.

Advantages of cream cleanser

Great for sensitive, dry and aging skin. It hydrates the skin and locks moisture for a long-lasting glow.
Mild cleansing and easy to use.
Prevents fine lines and chipping of the skin.
Made upon natural ingredients.

Disadvantages of cream cleansers

Can be too milky or stick sometimes.
Not ideal for all skin types.
The cream cleanser does not offer deep cleansing.

Based on the above pros and cons, choose the one best for you!

For more useful tips, take a look at this video:

FAQs

Can I use a foaming cleanser every day?

Yes! You can use a foaming cleanser every day. People with oily and acne-prone skin should clean their face at least twice a day with a foaming cleanser, for clean and radiant skin.

How often should you use a cream cleanser?

If you use a cream cleanser, that means your skin is either dry or sensitive. In such a case it’s best to use the cream cleanser at least once a day (at night preferably). However, you can use it twice as well if you feel the need to wash your face.

Should I wash my face after using a cleanser?

No! Cleanser and face wash both accomplish the same purpose. So, you need not wash your face after using a cleanser. Some skin types prefer using specialized cleansers while others do just fine with an ordinary face wash.

What skin type should use foam cleansers?

A foam cleanser is best for oily and acne-prone skin, as the deep cleansing done by a foam cleanser removes the excess oil and dirt from the internal layers of skin. People with dry skin should avoid foam cleansers at all costs.

What skin type should use a cream cleanser?

Cream cleansers are best for sensitive skin especially for those with rosacea. People with dry skin types should use cream cleansers as well. Cream cleansers have the moisturizing factor needed for dry and sensitive skin types. Teenagers and individuals with oily skin should opt for a different type of cleanser.

Conclusion

With the increasing awareness about skincare around the globe, products like cleansers, exfoliators, and toners are making their way into everyone’s skincare routine. People have realized that a quick wash with simple bar soap is not enough.

Depending upon your skin type, take a pick between Foam and Cream cleansers, to achieve soft smooth and glowing skin!

Also, know more about gel cleansers vs foam cleansers and which one is better for you.

References

Buddemeyer, Ruby. 2019. “How Often Should You Wash Your Face? I Put It to the Test.” Cosmopolitan. Cosmopolitan. June 21, 2019. https://www.cosmopolitan.com/style-beauty/beauty/a28100561/how-often-should-i-wash-my-face/.
Heetfeld, A.B., T. Schill, S.S. Schröder, S. Forkel, V. Mahler, W. Pfützner, M.P. Schön, J. Geier, and T. Buhl. 2019. “Challenging a Paradigm: Skin Sensitivity to Sodium Lauryl Sulfate Is Independent of Atopic Diathesis.” British Journal of Dermatology 183 (1): 139–45. https://doi.org/10.1111/bjd.18564.
“What Is a Facial Cleanser – Skin Care Tips – Garnier.” 2021. Garnierusa.com. 2021. https://www.garnierusa.com/tips-how-tos/what-is-a-facial-cleanser.
“What’s the Difference between a Foaming Cleanser and a Cream Cleanser? – Mayerling Skin Renewal System, a Division of Doubltees Pty Ltd. Australia.” 2020. Mayerling Skin Renewal System, a Division of Doubltees Pty Ltd. Australia. June 11, 2020. https://mayerlingskincare.com/2020/06/whats-the-difference-between-a-foaming-cleanser-and-a-cream-cleanser/.

woman with white hairband washing her face with cream cleanser

How about you, what do you prefer, cream cleanser or foaming cleanser? Let us know in the comments below!