What is the primary purpose of a facial cleanser?

The primary purpose of a facial cleanser is to remove dirt, oil, and makeup from the skin. This foundational step in any skincare routine is crucial for maintaining skin health. Cleansing helps to eliminate impurities that can accumulate throughout the day, such as sweat, pollution, and residual makeup. By doing so, it prepares the skin for subsequent products, such as toners, moisturizers, and treatments, allowing them to perform more effectively.

While hydration, enhancing makeup application, and providing sun protection are important aspects of skincare, they are not the primary function of a cleanser. Hydration typically comes from moisturizers; makeup application is influenced more by the quality of products used rather than the cleansing process; and sun protection is addressed through the application of specific sunscreen products rather than during cleansing. Therefore, the essential role of a cleanser is to create a clean base for skincare and beauty routines.