The key difference lies in their function: a cleanser washes away dirt, makeup, and impurities, while an exfoliator removes dead skin cells from the surface.
Understanding Cleansers and Exfoliators
Here's a detailed breakdown of each:
Cleansers
- Purpose: To remove surface-level dirt, oil, makeup, and other environmental pollutants.
- How it works: Cleansers contain surfactants that lift impurities from the skin, allowing them to be rinsed away with water.
- Frequency: Typically used daily, once or twice a day.
- Result: Leaves the skin feeling clean and refreshed.
Exfoliators
- Purpose: To remove dead skin cells, which can clog pores and lead to acne breakouts.
- How it works:
- Physical exfoliants: Contain abrasive particles (e.g., scrubs) that manually slough off dead skin cells.
- Chemical exfoliants: Use acids (e.g., AHAs, BHAs) to dissolve the bonds holding dead skin cells together.
- Frequency: Typically used 1-3 times per week, depending on skin type and the strength of the exfoliant.
- Result: Reveals brighter, smoother skin and allows for better absorption of other skincare products.
Table Summary
| Feature | Cleanser | Exfoliator |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Removes dirt, oil, makeup, impurities | Removes dead skin cells |
| Mechanism | Surfactants that lift away impurities | Physical abrasion or chemical dissolution |
| Frequency | Daily | 1-3 times per week |
| Benefit | Clean, refreshed skin | Brighter, smoother skin, improved product absorption |
Why Use Both?
Cleansing is the first step in any good skincare routine. By removing surface dirt and oil, it prepares the skin for further treatment. Exfoliating after cleansing can then effectively target and remove the dead skin cells, which, according to the reference, "can clog pores and lead to acne breakouts." Cleansing beforehand "may remove surface-level dirt, allowing for better access to dead skin cells when exfoliating".
