A good cleanser is one of the most important steps in any skincare routine. Yes, it should clean your face effectively but not at the expense of your skin’s natural oils.
Too often, conventional cleansers strip the skin barrier, leaving it tight, dry, or irritated. The key is choosing a gentle, natural cleanser that supports your skin’s balance and microbiome.
The Problem With Detergent-Based Cleansers
Many facial cleansers on the market use synthetic detergents. These ingredients bind to dirt and oils so they can be rinsed away but they also strip away too much, disrupting your skin’s natural defenses.
Common detergents to watch out for include:
- Sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS)
- Ammonium lauryl sulfate
- Sodium laureth sulfate (SLES)
- Ammonium laureth sulfate
These harsh surfactants are inexpensive for manufacturers but harsh on your skin. Long-term use can weaken the skin barrier, cause irritation, and even contribute to breakouts.
Why Natural Soap-Based Cleansers Are Different
Natural soaps, on the other hand, are made from plant oils such as coconut, olive, safflower, or jojoba. These oils are combined with an alkaline substance (often lye) in a process called saponification. The byproducts of this process are:
- Soap (the cleanser itself)
- Glycerin (a natural moisturizer)
This means natural cleansers not only clean effectively but also leave behind hydrating glycerin, helping your skin stay soft and nourished.
When you use a natural cleanser, you’re not stripping your skin, you’re supporting it. And that’s the difference between skin that feels dry and tight after cleansing versus skin that feels fresh and healthy.
Choosing the Right Cleanser
Here’s what to look for in a cleanser:
- Free from detergents and sulfates
- Made with plant oils, not synthetic fillers
- Gentle enough for daily use
- Formulated to support your skin’s natural microbiome
Remember: your skin needs its natural oils to remain beautiful and healthy. The right cleanser will remove dirt and impurities without disturbing your skin’s protective barrier.
🗝️ Key Takeaway
Choose microbiome-friendly options. Gentle, natural cleansers protect your skin’s oils and support long-term health.
Recommended Sans Product
Foaming Facial Cleanser – A gentle, microbiome-friendly foaming cleanser that refreshes without stripping and crafted with pure botanicals.
Comment
Would natural oilsl for moles or skin tags be affected by cleansers? Would that be a spot to not cleanse? Here is more info on what skin tag oil I am currently using. Are there cleansers that will not reduce the usefulness of skin tag oil? Maybe a natural soap would be best. Thanks for the article. It got me thinking.