14 BEST DRUGSTORE FACIAL CLEANSERS

Choosing the right facial cleanser is an important step in the skin care process. However, with so many products on the market, finding the best facial cleanser for your skin can be confusing. Let’s learn about the top 14 types of facial cleansers most recommended by pharmacies, suitable for many different skin types through this article.

WHAT SHOULD YOU LOOK FOR IN A FACIAL CLEANSER?

According to New York-based dermatologist David Kim, choosing the right facial cleanser depends mainly on your skin type. However, one important thing all good facial cleansers have in common is their ability to remove “sweat, residue and pollutants without making your skin dry,”

Dry skin: If your cleanser makes your skin feel tight and lose its natural moisture, look for products with hydrating ingredients like ceramides, niacinamide, and hyaluronic acid.

Oily skin: Try products that contain acids to help remove excess oil effectively.

Combination skin: In case your skin is oily on the forehead and dry on the cheeks, look for a balanced cleanser that both removes excess oil and moisturizes dry skin.

Sensitive skin: If some ingredients in regular facial cleansers irritate your skin, choose products specifically for sensitive skin, eliminating irritants such as perfume, alcohol,…

Regardless of your skin type, you can find a suitable facial cleanser without spending too much money. “There are great options [at the drugstore],” Kim says. “Cleansers shouldn’t be so expensive.”

HOW OFTEN SHOULD YOU WASH YOUR FACE?

According to dermatologists, washing your face once or twice a day is essential to maintain skin health. However, the appropriate frequency depends on each person’s skin type and living habits.

“It is always important to wash the face at the end of the day to remove buildup of dirt, debris as well as excess oil and makeup from throughout the day,” recommends Board-certified dermatologist Dr. Marisa Garshick. However, for those with sensitive or dry skin, washing your face only in the evening may be a more suitable choice. So, when should you wash your face?

Morning: Washing your face in the morning helps remove sebum and sweat that has accumulated on the skin overnight, while also helping the skin get ready to receive the next skin care products.

Evening: Washing your face at night is the most important step in your skin care routine, helping to remove dirt, makeup and sunscreen.

BEST DRUGSTORE FACIAL CLEANSER

CETAPHIL HYDRATING GENTLE SKIN CLEANSER

Dermatologists recommend this gentle cleanser for dry, sensitive skin. It contains hydrating glycerin and niacinamide to soothe and protect the skin barrier, without stripping away natural oils. The non-foaming formula leaves your skin feeling comfortable and hydrated. Besides that, it is also one of the best cleansers for rosacea.

DIFFERIN CLEANSER DAILY DEEP 5% BENZOYL PEROXIDE

Struggling with persistent acne? This benzoyl peroxide cleanser is your go-to! It tackles breakouts and blackheads while absorbing oil and keeping pores clear. Gentle enough for daily use, it effectively fights acne without irritation.

ST. IVES SKIN SCRUB AVOCADO AND HONEY

This scrub buffs away dullness! It uses finely ground walnut shells to gently exfoliate dead skin cells, while avocado and honey keep your skin feeling hydrated and happy. If you have normal skin, swap this scrub in for your regular cleanser once a week to reveal a brighter, smoother complexion.

CERAVE HYDRATING FOAMING OIL CLEANSER

This award-winning 2023 cleanser is a must-have for your skincare routine! It starts as a luxurious oil, melting away makeup and impurities while deeply nourishing your skin. Then, as you add water, it transforms into a gentle lather that rinses clean, leaving your skin feeling soft, hydrated, and comfortable.

NEUTROGENA OIL-FREE ACNE WASH

For those battling blemishes and clogged pores, this oil-free formula is your new best friend. Salicylic acid, a powerful BHA, works its magic by exfoliating and clearing out trapped oil, dirt, and bacteria that contribute to breakouts. With consistent use, expect smoother skin, fewer pimples, and a brighter, more even complexion.

VANICREAM GENTLE FACIAL CLEANSER

This cleanser is perfect for those with sensitive skin! Free of sulfates, dyes, fragrance, parabens, and gluten, it provides a gentle clean without irritation. Dermatologist-tested and safe for eczema-prone skin, it won’t clog pores and leaves you feeling refreshed.

GARNIER SKINACTIVE MICELLAR CLEANSING WATER

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Ditch the harsh scrubbing! This micellar water gently removes makeup, dirt, sunscreen, and excess oil without irritating your eyes. It’s so versatile you can use it alone as a cleanser and makeup remover, or as the first step in your double cleansing routine.

AVEENO ULTRA-CALMING FOAMING CLEANSER

This gentle cleanser is a lifesaver for sensitive or irritated skin, whether caused by allergies, overdoing strong skincare, or anything else. It calms and soothes redness without irritating further. Plus, it’s hypoallergenic and won’t clog pores, thanks to its non-comedogenic formula. It even contains feverfew, a natural ingredient known for calming inflamed skin.

AVÈNE CLEANANCE CLEANSING GEL

Struggling with oily skin? This gel wash is your new best friend! It controls oil production and contains comedoclastin, a natural extract that fights redness and blemishes. Use it on your face or body for a refreshed, shine-free feeling.

LA ROCHE-POSAY LIPIKAR WASH AP+ GENTLE FOAMING MOISTURIZING WASH

This cleanser is a favorite among dermatologists for its super gentle formula. Packed with prebiotic thermal water, shea butter, and hydrating ingredients like glycerin and niacinamide, it cleanses even very dry skin without stripping away natural moisture. So mild it’s suitable for babies and eczema-prone skin, this cleanser leaves your face feeling comfortable and soothed.

OLAY REGENERIST REGENERATING CREAM CLEANSER

Forget fancy cleansers for wrinkles (anti-aging serums are the real heroes there). However, a cleanser with an amino-peptide complex, glycerin, and exfoliating salicylic acid can brighten dull skin, smooth uneven texture, and leave you feeling clean.

WELEDA SKIN FOOD FACE CARE NOURISHING OIL-TO-MILK CLEANSER

This cleanser is a dream come true for soft, supple skin! Combining sunflower seed oil and chamomile flower extract, it starts as a luxurious oil and transforms into a gentle milk. This unique formula effortlessly removes makeup, dirt, and oil, leaving your skin feeling clean, refreshed, and oh-so-touchable.

BURT’S BEES FACIAL CLEANSING OIL

Perfect for those with normal or dry skin, this coconut and argan oil blend gently melts away makeup and impurities without leaving a greasy residue. Your skin will feel luxuriously soft and smooth after every use.

UNTOXICATED CLEAN START FACIAL CLEANSER

Newcomer brand Untoxicated offers a gentle facial cleanser online at a drugstore-worthy price. This cleanser is perfect for sensitive skin as it’s free of common allergens and packed with hydrating ingredients like ceramides and hyaluronic acid. You might not find it on drugstore shelves yet, but it’s definitely worth checking out online.

TIPS ON FACIAL CLEANSING FOR SKINCARE

  • You should choose a facial cleanser that suits your skin type and needs.
  • Use warm water to wash your face, do not use water that is too hot or too cold.
  • Gently massage your face when washing your face.
  • Moisturize your skin after washing your face.
  • Consult a dermatologist if you have sensitive skin or skin problems.
  • Use facial cleanser twice a day, in the morning and at night.

CONCLUSION

Choosing the right facial cleanser is an important step in skin care. Hopefully with the list of 14 types of facial cleansers recommended by pharmacists and notes when using, you can find a product that suits your needs and skin type. Remember, everyone’s skin is different, so you should experiment and find the products that work best for you. Wishing you always have healthy and radiant skin!

How to Remove Acrylic Nails Safely and Easily

In recent years, the growing popularity of acrylic nails has piqued the interest of those looking for innovative nail designs that are resilient and visually appealing. Acrylic nails offer an elegant and long-lasting solution for those who desire an attractive and well-groomed appearance. However, it is important to recognize the importance of a safe and scientific removal process. Due to the hard nature of these nails, which are made of hard plastic, a cautious and patient approach is required during nail removal. Using safe removal methods becomes paramount to protecting the natural health of the nail, helping to minimize potential damage. This article will reveal a step-by-step guide on how to remove acrylic nails safely and effectively without damaging your natural nails.

When should acrylic nails be removed?

Acrylic nails should be removed when there is noticeable lifting or damage, or if you experience any signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, or pain. It’s also advisable to remove them if you want to give your natural nails a break or if they have grown out significantly, affecting the overall appearance. Professional removal is recommended to minimize the risk of damage to your natural nails.

Tools you’ll need to take off Acrylic Nails

Quality products are formulated with gentle and effective ingredients that dissolve acrylic without causing unnecessary damage or stress to your nails. Poor-quality products may contain harsh chemicals that can weaken and dehydrate your natural nails, leading to brittleness and breakage. By investing in quality nail removal products, you not only ensure a smoother and more comfortable nail removal process, but you also contribute to the long-term health and resilience of your nails, promoting a positive overall nail care experience.

To safely and effectively remove acrylic nails at home, you’ll need a few essential tools:

Pure acetone: Acetone is the primary solvent used to dissolve acrylic nails. It’s crucial to use pure acetone, as nail polish removers with lower acetone content may not be strong enough to remove the acrylic effectively. 

Cotton balls or pads: Cotton balls or pads facilitate the application of acetone to acrylic nails. They provide a comfortable and absorbent surface for the acetone to work on.

Aluminum foil: Aluminum foil is used to wrap around the fingers after applying acetone to the acrylic nails. It helps trap the acetone heat, enhancing its dissolving power and accelerating removal.

Orangewood cuticle pusher: The Orangewood cuticle pusher removes acrylic nails gently and effectively from the natural nail. Its smooth and rounded surface prevents damage to the natural nail layer.

Nail file: A nail file is essential for smoothing out any rough edges or irregularities on the natural nails after the acrylics have been removed. It helps restore a natural and polished look to the nails.

Nail Clipper: A nail clipper will be useful for trimming the length of your natural nails before starting the acrylic nail removal process. It can help make the subsequent steps more manageable and efficient.

Buffer: A nail buffer is used to buff the natural nails after filing to restore their shine and remove any remaining acrylic residue. It promotes a healthy and well-cared-for appearance of the nails.

Moisturizer: Moisturizer is important for replenishing the moisture lost during the acrylic removal process. Acetone can be drying to the skin and nails, so applying moisturizer helps restore hydration and prevent dryness. 

How to take off acrylic nails

Step 1: Shorten the tips of your acrylic nails

Trim off as much acrylic material as possible, as this will streamline the subsequent steps. If the thickness of the nails makes cutting challenging, consider using a coarse nail file to gradually file them down. Be cautious not to cut into your nail bed during this process.

Step 2: Eliminate the topcoat and nail polish from your nails 

Smoothly file away the topcoat and nail polish from your nails. Employ a fine-grade buffer or a nail file to eliminate as much product as possible. Utilize long strokes that traverse the length of the nail, continuing to file until the product is completely removed or until the smooth, shiny layer transitions to a more matte surface.

Step 3: Immerse cotton balls in acetone 

Ensure each cotton ball is fully saturated by dropping it into the acetone. So, you can soak off acrylic nails by immersing your fingertips in acetone until the acrylic material softens and becomes easier to gently lift away. It’s crucial to note that acetone is highly flammable and emits strong fumes. Guarantee proper ventilation in the room, and be cautious to keep the acetone away from heat or any open flames.

Step 4: Prepare tin foil

While the cotton balls are absorbing the acetone, prepare 10 squares of tin foil. Ensure that each square is sizable enough to fully encircle your finger. Precision is unnecessary; the squares don’t have to be perfectly neat.

Step 5: Apply petroleum jelly

Shield the skin around your nails by applying petroleum jelly. Since acetone can be harsh on the skin, it’s crucial to safeguard your fingers. Gently massage a generous quantity of petroleum jelly onto the tips of your fingers and the cuticles, extending it up to the first knuckle if you’re particularly cautious. Avoid applying petroleum jelly directly to the nails, as this could impede the removal process. For more precise application, consider using a cotton-tipped wooden applicator.

Step 6: Wrap in tin foil

Affix the cotton balls to your fingers using tin foil. Position a cotton ball in the middle of a tin foil square, and then place them together atop a nail, ensuring the cotton ball makes contact with the nail. Proceed to wrap the tin foil around your nail to secure the cotton ball. Repeat this process for each nail.

Step 7: Remove the foil bundles

Remove the foil bundles from your nails following a 30-minute duration. Unwrap the tin foil and pull the cotton ball and acrylic away from your natural nail with a gentle yet firm motion. The acetone’s action has loosened the acrylic from your nail, facilitating an easy removal without much difficulty.

If you opted for soaking your acrylic nails in the acetone bowl, delicately pry the nails off using an orange wood stick. In the event that the acrylic nails remain stubbornly attached, consider repeating the process. Allow your nails to soak for an additional 20 minutes before attempting to remove them again. 

Step 8: Remove excess acrylic

Smooth away any remaining acrylic and shape your nails with the nail file. The acetone bath will have softened the acrylic, providing an ideal opportunity to gently buff away the residual material until your nails are free of any leftover residue. Employ nail clippers and a nail file to refine the edges and achieve a rounded nail shape. Subsequently, lightly buff your nails with a fine-grade nail buffer, moving from the base to the tip, to impart a polished and smooth sheen. To prevent nail damage, ensure that you file in one direction only, avoiding a back-and-forth sawing motion.

Step 9: Add moisturizer

After completing the acrylic nail removal process, cleanse your hands and replenish moisture with lotion. The drying effect of acetone can leave the skin extremely dry, so it’s essential to restore some hydration to your fingers. Wash your hands using warm water and a gentle hand soap, followed by thorough drying. Then, massage your hands with body oil or a moisturizing lotion. Ensure to rub the moisturizer into your nails, cuticles, and surrounding skin to keep them well-hydrated and aid in their recovery from the effects of acrylics.

How to remove acrylic nails without acetone

Step 1: Clip Your Nails

Start by selecting a good-quality nail clipper and ensure it’s clean and sharp. With careful precision, clip your nails straight across, avoiding the temptation to cut too close to the skin to prevent discomfort. 

Step 2: File the Acrylic Surface

Delicately filing the surface of your acrylic nails is a crucial step in their removal. Use a fine-grit nail file, ensuring its cleanliness to prevent any debris from affecting the procedure. With a gentle touch, file the surface of each acrylic nail, moving from the outer edge towards the center. The objective is to break the top layer of the acrylic, allowing the removal agent to penetrate more effectively. Take your time and exercise patience during this step to avoid unnecessary pressure that could potentially damage your natural nails.

Step 3: Soak in Warm Water

Creating a soothing prelude to acrylic nail removal involves immersing your fingertips in a bowl filled with warm, soapy water. This preparatory step not only promotes relaxation but serves a practical purpose. Allow your nails to soak in the comforting warmth for approximately 15 to 20 minutes. The warm water works wonders by gently softening the acrylic, making it more pliable and easier to remove. This soaking technique not only contributes to the overall comfort of the removal process but also facilitates a smoother transition, minimizing the risk of any undue stress on your natural nails.

Step 4: Gently Pry Off Acrylic

Following the soaking process, it’s time to remove the softened acrylic using a cuticle pusher delicately. Choose a high-quality cuticle pusher with a gentle edge to avoid unnecessary pressure on your natural nails. Start by working patiently around the edges of each nail, where the acrylic has begun to lift. With a gradual and gentle motion, carefully pry off the softened acrylic from your natural nails. Pay close attention to avoid forcing or rushing the process, as this can lead to damage. The goal is to lift and separate the acrylic layer without causing undue stress to your natural nails. Take your time, and with each careful maneuver, observe the acrylic lifting away, revealing your natural nails underneath.

Step 5: Buff the Natural Nails

After successfully removing the acrylic, the next crucial step involves using a nail buffer to refine the surface of your natural nails. Opt for a fine-grit nail buffer to gently smooth out any rough edges or unevenness. With meticulous care, move the buffer across the surface of each natural nail, focusing on achieving a seamless and polished look. Take extra caution to avoid excessive buffing, ensuring that you only refine the surface without compromising the thickness of your natural nails. This step not only contributes to the aesthetic appeal but also helps restore the natural shine and smooth texture of your nails.

Step 6: Moisturize Your Nails and Hands

Choose a nourishing option like olive oil or a rich hand moisturizer. Dispense a small amount onto your fingertips and massage it generously into your nails and hands. Olive oil, known for its hydrating properties, can penetrate deeply, promoting nail and cuticle health. 

What should I do to my nails after removing acrylics?

After removing acrylics, it’s essential to care for natural nails to promote health and strength. Start by regularly moisturizing your nails and the surrounding skin with cuticle oil or a nourishing cream. To prevent snagging or breakage, ensure that you keep your nails trimmed and shaped. Consider incorporating a strengthening nail treatment into your routine to support the natural nail’s recovery. Additionally, allow your nails to breathe and be cautious about excessive exposure to water, as it can contribute to brittleness. Finally, maintain a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals to support overall nail health.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Common mistakes in the process of removing acrylic nails often result from impatience and a lack of proper care. Hastening the removal process is a common error since impatience can lead to taking shortcuts that may harm natural nails. Employing excessive force is another pitfall, as it can cause damage and weaken the nails. Equally crucial is avoiding neglect of post-removal nail care, as the failure to moisturize and nourish the nails afterward can result in dryness and vulnerability. To ensure a smooth transition from acrylics to natural nails, it’s essential to approach the removal method patiently, refrain from using excessive force, and prioritize post-removal care for optimal nail health.

FAQ

1. Is acetone bad for skin?

Excessive exposure of the skin to acetone can result in dryness, irritation, and cracking. Some studies on the prolonged effects of acetone exposure have primarily focused on animals, revealing potential harm such as kidney, liver, and nerve damage, as well as the occurrence of birth defects and male infertility.

2. Can hot water remove acrylics?

Absolutely! Taking off acrylic nails with warm water is a simple and chemical-free solution.

3. Do acrylic nails damage your nails?

Acrylic does not harm your nails. However, if acrylic paint or any nail polish method is applied or removed improperly, it can cause significant damage.

4. How long is it OK to wear acrylic nails?

Clients are advised to return every two to three weeks for a fill, allowing for the growth of their natural nails and maintaining a fresh-looking manicure. A full set typically lasts about four to six months, but after eight weeks, it’s recommended to remove them and opt for a new set.

5. Why are my nails so thin after acrylics?

Nails becoming thinner after using acrylic paint is a common issue, as acrylic can lead to moisture loss, making the nails brittle and prone to peeling.

Conclusion

Even though your short square acrylics are stunning, removal is inevitable. The good news is you can take them off safely and easily at home with a little patience and the right tools! Remember to prioritize patience and gentle techniques to avoid harming your natural nails and surrounding skin. Regular maintenance, proper tools, and a mindful approach will contribute to a successful acrylic nail removal experience. Embracing these tips not only preserves the health of your nails but also allows you to enjoy the flexibility of changing your nail style without compromising the integrity of your natural nails.