Formulating Your Own Cleansers: A Detailed Guide to Effective, Safe, and Sustainable Cleansers For All Skin Types

To get started with this subject, it’s important to understand the role of cleansers in a skincare routine. Cleansers are used to remove dirt, oil, and impurities from the skin, which can accumulate over time and contribute to acne, inflammation, and other skin issues. Cleansers play an important role in preventing breakouts, reducing inflammation, and improving skin texture. By removing excess oil, dirt, and other impurities from the skin, cleansers can help to prevent clogged pores and breakouts. 

Regular cleansing can help to improve skin texture by removing dead skin cells and promoting cell turnover. By keeping the skin clean, clear, and balanced, cleansers help to promote healthy skin and prevent problems from arising.

In this article we look at:

1. 10 Natural Cleansers You Can Make For Different Skin Types
2. The Benefits of Natural & Organic Cleansers
3. 7 Natural and Organic Ingredients To Use In Your Cleansers
4. The Rise of Multi-Purpose Cleansers: What are 2-in-1 and 3-in-1 Cleansers, and How Do They Work?
5. The Benefits of Multi-Purpose Cleansers
6. The Future of Cleansers in Skincare
7. How To Formulate Your Own Cleansers

10 Natural Cleansers You Can Make For Different Skin Types

There are many different types of cleansers that you can make, each with its own benefits and drawbacks. Some common types of cleansers include:

1. Foaming cleansers: 

These cleansers create a rich lather that helps to remove dirt and oil from the skin. They are often recommended for oily or acne-prone skin, but may be too harsh for those with dry or sensitive skin.

2. Oil cleansers and Oil-to-milk cleansers: 

Oil cleansers are designed to dissolve and remove makeup, sunscreen, and other oil-based products from the skin. They can be effective at removing oil and impurities, but may not be suitable for all skin types.

3. Cleansing balms: 

Cleansing balms are also similar to cleansing oils, but have a semi-solid consistency. They are usually a blend of oils, butters and wax and can include an emulsifier. 

4. Gel-to-milk cleansers (cleansing gels): 

These work in a very similar way to oil-to-milk cleansers and have the same benefits but they are thicker in consistency. When they are dispensed they are gel, but when you add water they turn milky.

5. Cream cleansers: 

Cream cleansers are formulated to be gentler and more moisturizing than foaming cleansers. They are often recommended for dry or sensitive skin, but may not be as effective at removing oil and impurities as foaming cleansers.

6. Cleansing lotions or milks: 

These work by emulsifying with water to gently remove impurities, makeup, and excess oil from the skin. They are typically formulated with nourishing ingredients such as milk proteins, oils, and plant extracts to help hydrate and soothe the skin while cleansing.

Cream cleansers, cleansing lotions, and cleansing milks are similar types of cleansers that are typically formulated with a creamy texture and are designed to gently cleanse and hydrate the skin, but they may have slightly different ingredients and consistencies depending on the specific product.

7. Micellar water: 

Micellar water is a type of cleanser that uses tiny micelles to trap and remove dirt and oil from the skin. It is often recommended for sensitive skin, as it is gentle and non-irritating.

8. Solid cleansers: 

Solid cleansers are a type of cleanser that typically come in the form of a balm, bar, or powder that is activated with water. They are designed to effectively remove impurities and makeup while also hydrating and nourishing the skin, and are often formulated with natural oils and butters to help moisturize and soothe the skin.

9. Powdered cleansers: 

Powdered cleansers are a unique type of cleanser that come in a dry powder form and are activated with water to create a foamy or creamy texture. They are designed to gently exfoliate the skin while also removing impurities and excess oil, and can be customized by adjusting the amount of water added to create a more gentle or intense cleansing experience.

10. Multi-purpose cleansers: 

Multi-purpose cleansers are a type of cleanser that combine multiple skincare benefits, such as cleansing, exfoliating, and toning, into a single product. They are designed to save time and streamline the skincare routine, but may not be as effective as using the individual products tailored to specific skincare needs.

When choosing a cleanser, it’s important to consider your skin type and any specific concerns you may have. If you have oily or acne-prone skin, a foaming cleanser may be a good option. If you have dry or sensitive skin, a cream cleanser or oil cleanser may be more appropriate. And if you wear makeup or sunscreen, an oil cleanser or micellar water may be necessary to ensure that all products are fully removed from the skin.

It’s also important to note that over-cleansing can be just as damaging to the skin as under-cleansing. Washing your face too often or using harsh cleansers can strip the skin of its natural oils and lead to dryness, irritation, and other problems. It’s generally recommended to cleanse the skin once or twice a day, depending on your skin type and lifestyle.

With so much to choose from and to explore, we’d strongly advise that you begin by keeping things simple. First of all, focus on developing some successful cleansers before moving onto the more advanced formulations. 

This means learning to formulate your own cleansers in this order:

1. Oil cleansers and oil-to-milk cleansers
2. Cleansing balms
3. Micellar water
4. Gel-milk cleansers (cleansing gels)
5. Cleansing lotions or milks
6. Cream cleansers
7. Foaming cleansers
8. Powdered cleansers
9. Solid cleansers
10. Multi-purpose cleansers

You’ll learn how to make the first seven of these inside our Diploma in Natural Skincare Formulation and after you’ve perfected these (and develop excellent skincare formulation skills) you can join the Natural Cosmetic Formulation Club, where you can unlock classes that help you to develop the final three – powdered-, solid- and multi-purpose cleansers!

If you’d like to dive in and find out a little more about some different types of cleansers, we’ve got a few articles for you to read as follows:

The different types of natural (non-foaming) cleansers you can formulate

How to Create Your Own Natural and Organic Cleansing Powders

How to Make Your Own Natural Emulsion-based Clay Face Masks

The Benefits of Natural & Organic Cleansers

In general, “natural” skincare products are made from ingredients derived from nature, such as plant extracts, essential oils, and minerals. These products may be free from synthetic fragrances, preservatives, and other potentially harmful chemicals. “Organic” skincare products, on the other hand, are made from ingredients that have been grown without the use of pesticides or other synthetic chemicals.

One of the main benefits of using natural and organic cleansers is that they may be less irritating to the skin. Many conventional cleansers contain harsh surfactants and other chemicals that can strip the skin of its natural oils, leading to dryness, redness, and other issues. Natural and organic cleansers, on the other hand, are often formulated with gentle, plant-based ingredients that are less likely to cause irritation.

In addition to the potential benefits for your skin, natural and organic skincare products are often more sustainable than traditional beauty products. Many natural and organic brands use eco-friendly packaging and ingredients that are sourced from sustainable and ethical suppliers.

7 Excellent Natural and Organic Ingredients To Use In Your Cleansers

When choosing a natural or organic cleanser, it’s important to consider your skin type and concerns which will enable you to select the most suitable ingredients. 

For example, if you have oily or acne-prone skin, you may want to look for a cleanser that contains tea tree oil, which has natural antibacterial properties. If you have dry or sensitive skin, you may prefer a cleanser that contains gentle, hydrating ingredients like aloe vera.

There are so many amazing ingredients to choose from that can help to cleanse, hydrate and moisturize your skin, but here are some that you might like to start with:

1. Aloe vera: 

A soothing and hydrating ingredient that can help calm irritated skin

2. Chamomile: 

An anti-inflammatory ingredient that can help reduce redness and inflammation

3. Coconut oil: 

A moisturizing ingredient that can help protect the skin barrier

4. Green tea: 

An antioxidant-rich ingredient that can help protect the skin from free radical damage

5. Jojoba oil:

A lightweight oil that can help balance the skin’s natural oil production

6. Rosehip oil: 

A nourishing oil that can help improve skin texture and tone

7. Salicylic acid: 

Known for its ability to penetrate deep into pores to exfoliate and clear out excess oil and debris, making it a popular choice for those with oily or acne-prone skin.

Remember to always research your ingredients first and check for any contraindications that might mean they are not suitable for you to use. Also, always patch test new ingredients and products and to consult with a skincare professional if you have any concerns or questions about your skincare routine.

The Rise of Multi-Purpose Cleansers: What are 2-in-1 and 3-in-1 Cleansers, and How Do They Work?

Multi-purpose cleansers, such as 2-in-1 and 3-in-1 products, have become increasingly popular in recent years. These types of cleansers combine different cleansing functions in one product, such as cleansing and exfoliating, or cleansing and toning.

One common type of multi-purpose cleanser is a 2-in-1 cleanser and exfoliator. These products typically contain exfoliating particles or acids that help to slough away dead skin cells, as well as cleansers to remove dirt and oil. While these products can be convenient, it’s important to use them with caution, as over-exfoliating can damage the skin’s protective barrier and lead to irritation and sensitivity. It’s generally recommended to use exfoliating cleansers no more than once or twice a week, depending on your skin type and the intensity of the exfoliation.

Another type of multi-purpose cleanser is a 3-in-1 cleanser, toner, and moisturizer. These products are designed to cleanse the skin, balance its pH, and provide lightweight hydration all in one step. While they can be convenient for those who are short on time or prefer a simplified routine, they may not be as effective as using separate products for each step. Additionally, these products may not be suitable for all skin types, particularly those with very dry or very oily skin.

Overall, multi-purpose cleansers can be a good option for those looking for a simplified skincare routine or who are short on time. However, it’s important to choose a product that is appropriate for your skin type and concerns, and to use it appropriately to avoid over-exfoliating or other issues. As with any skincare product, it’s also a good idea to patch test new products before using them all over your face to avoid potential allergic reactions or irritation.

The trend towards multi-purpose cosmetics has gained traction in recent years, as consumers look for ways to simplify their beauty routines, reduce waste, and use fewer products overall. Multi-purpose cosmetics, including multi-purpose cleansers, are designed to provide multiple benefits in one product, such as cleansing, moisturizing, and providing sun protection all in one step.

One reason for the popularity of multi-purpose cosmetics is the growing awareness of the environmental impact of the beauty industry. Many consumers are looking for ways to reduce waste and minimize their carbon footprint, and using fewer products is one way to do so. Additionally, the trend towards natural and organic beauty has led to an interest in multi-purpose products that contain fewer synthetic ingredients and are more sustainable.

Another reason for the popularity of multi-purpose cosmetics is the desire for a simpler beauty routine. With busy schedules and a growing awareness of the importance of self-care, many consumers are looking for products that can save time and streamline their skincare routine. Multi-purpose cleansers, in particular, can be a convenient way to cleanse, exfoliate, and moisturize the skin all in one step.

Overall, the trend towards multi-purpose cosmetics is driven by a desire for simplicity, sustainability, and effectiveness. By choosing products that provide multiple benefits in one step, consumers can reduce waste, save time, and achieve their beauty goals more easily and efficiently.

The Benefits of Multi-Purpose Cleansers

There are several benefits to using multi-purpose cleansers but perhaps the most important ones are as follows:

Convenience: 

Multi-purpose cleansers can be a time-saver as they eliminate the need for multiple products, allowing for a shorter and simpler skincare routine.

Space-Saving: 

Multi-purpose cleansers can also be a space-saver, making them an ideal choice for those who have limited storage space or who travel frequently.

Cost-Effective: 

By eliminating the need for multiple products, multi-purpose cleansers can be cost-effective in the long run.

Versatility: 

Multi-purpose cleansers can be used for different skin types and concerns, making them a versatile choice for a wide range of people.

The Future of Cleansers in Skincare

As the skincare industry continues to evolve, so too do the products that we use to keep our skin clean and healthy. Here are some of the emerging trends and innovations in cleanser formulation that are shaping the future of skincare:

Advanced formulations: 

As technology continues to advance, so too do the formulations of cleansers. We are seeing the emergence of products that incorporate cutting-edge ingredients like probiotics, enzymes, and peptides to improve the efficacy of cleansers and provide targeted benefits to the skin.

Sustainability: 

The beauty industry as a whole is becoming more conscious of its impact on the environment, and cleansers are no exception. In the coming years, we can expect to see an increasing number of brands using eco-friendly packaging and ingredients, as well as investing in sustainable production methods.

Ingredient transparency: 

Consumers are becoming more aware of the potential risks associated with certain skincare ingredients, and are demanding greater transparency from brands. In response, many companies are beginning to disclose their ingredient lists and sourcing practices more openly, allowing consumers to make more informed decisions about the products they use.

Clean beauty: 

The clean beauty movement, which emphasizes the use of natural, non-toxic ingredients, is gaining momentum in the skincare industry. As a result, we can expect to see more cleansers that are formulated with plant-based ingredients and free from potentially harmful chemicals like sulfates, parabens, and phthalates.

Personalization: 

The potential for cleansers to become even more personalized and tailored to individual skin needs is an exciting area of innovation. When you formulate your own natural cosmetic products, you make all the decisions about what the product is and what ingredients are used. This is the ultimate personalization!

New Ingredients: 

New ingredients are constantly being discovered and tested for their potential benefits in skincare products. For example, some brands are incorporating probiotics and prebiotics into their cleanser formulas to promote healthy skin microbiome. Others are exploring the benefits of unique ingredients like marine algae and superfoods.

Technology: 

Technology is playing an increasingly important role in improving the efficacy and sustainability of cleansers. For example, some companies are using advanced formulas and manufacturing processes to create products that are more effective at removing impurities from the skin. Others are using sustainable packaging and production methods to reduce their environmental impact.

Overall, the future of cleansers in skincare is looking bright, with a focus on innovation, sustainability, and personalization. As technology continues to advance and our understanding of skincare deepens, we can expect to see even more exciting developments in the world of cleanser formulation in the years to come.

If you’re looking to switch to natural and organic skincare products, creating your own natural or organic cleanser can be a great place to start. As you can see, cleansers are an essential part of a healthy skincare routine. By formulating the right type of cleanser for your skin type and concerns, and using it appropriately, you can help to keep your skin clean, clear, and healthy.

How To Formulate Your Own Cleansers

When formulating your own cleansers, it’s important to approach the process with care and attention to detail. Enrolling on our Diploma in Natural Skincare Formulation will teach you everything you need to know to formulate your own natural & organic skincare products from balms, butters, oils, soaks, scrubs, polishes, toners, mists, cleansers, moisturizers, creams and lotions. You can find out more about the course here.

For now, here are some key steps to follow to formulate your own natural & organic cleansers:

Determine the skin type and needs: 

Before selecting ingredients or developing a formula, it’s important to consider the specific needs of the skin you are formulating for. Is the skin oily, dry, or sensitive? Does it have any particular concerns, such as acne or aging? Understanding the skin type and needs will help you select the right ingredients and create a formula that is effective and well-suited to the skin.

Understand the skin: 

In addition to considering the skin type and needs, it’s important to have a good understanding of the skin’s physiology and how different ingredients and formulations can affect it. This will help you create a formula that is not only effective but also safe and gentle for the skin.

Select the right ingredients: 

When selecting ingredients for your cleanser, it’s important to consider their specific benefits and properties, as well as their compatibility with other ingredients in the formula. For example, some ingredients may be too harsh or irritating for sensitive skin, while others may be too heavy for oily skin. It’s also important to consider the concentration and pH of each ingredient, as these factors can affect the efficacy and safety of the formula.

Develop the formula: 

Once you have selected the right ingredients, it’s time to develop the formula. This may involve experimenting with different concentrations and ratios of ingredients, as well as adjusting the pH and viscosity of the formula to achieve the desired texture and efficacy. It’s important to document your process and test the formula thoroughly to ensure it is effective and safe for the intended use.

Consider the user experience: 

It’s important to consider the user experience when formulating your cleanser. This includes factors such as fragrance, texture, and packaging, all of which can influence how the product is perceived and used by the consumer. By creating a formula that is not only effective but also enjoyable to use, you can create a loyal customer base and build a successful skincare brand.

Choose the fast track: 

By finding the right help from trusted, qualified and experienced professionals in cosmetic science and product formulation, you’ll more easily be able to formulate your own natural skincare cleansers (and other skincare products) to professional standards. You’ll avoid costly mistakes, time consuming (and often, never-ending) trial and error, myths and misconceptions that are rife all over the internet and in books. Instead you’ll follow tried and tested methods, access reliable and accurate information that’s also up-to-date and follow tuition created by people that care and are experienced to teach.

That’s exactly what you get, and more, when you enroll onto our Diploma in Natural Skincare Formulation. You’ll study online from wherever you are in the world from the comfort of your home, with a group of like-minded passionate, natural and organic beauty lovers. You’ll collaborate with your peers inside the private student support group and access tutor support in the weekly Q&As who will also personally mark your end of course assignments!

To find out more about the Diploma in Natural Skincare Formulation, go to the course page here, and download a copy of the course prospectus here. You might also like to take a look at our article, The Diploma in Natural Skincare Formulation: A Complete and Comprehensive Curriculum.

If you have any questions, please reach out to our customer service team by email using hello@schoolofnaturalskincare.com