Everybody has their own opinion on the most important step of the skincare routine. But if you don't wash your face properly with the best cleanser for your skin's needs, the rest of your routine has less chance to work well, because products go on best over clean skin.
Washing away the day's grime and make-up is essential. Removing build-up from the skin's surface helps the rest of your products sit properly on the skin. Clean face = a better base for your skincare routine.
Summer is around the corner, but you are still using your winter products and wondering why your skin isn’t looking its best?
As the temperatures rise and the sun shines brighter, your skincare routine needs to adapt to the summer season. Gel cleansers, with their lightweight and refreshing formulas, become an essential part of keeping your skin clean and comfortable during these hotter months. Don’t know where to start? We are here to help you transition into that summer routine! Here’s a guide to help you navigate your choices.
Choosing the right gel cleanser for summer can make a real difference to your routine. A good gel cleanser helps manage oil and sweat, gives a refreshing cleanse, removes sunscreen residue, keeps skin comfortable and leaves it ready for the products that follow. Look for formulas that balance oil control with hydration, contain soothing ingredients, and suit your skin type.
Here are the key benefits of using a gel cleanser during the summer:
Lightweight and Non-Greasy: Gel cleansers feel light on the skin, making them perfect for the warm weather. They cleanse without leaving a greasy residue, which is especially welcome when the humidity is high.
Refreshing and Cooling: Many gel cleansers contain ingredients like aloe vera and cucumber, which feel cooling on the skin. This can be very pleasant after a day in the sun.
Oil Control: Gel cleansers are often formulated to help manage excess oil, helping skin look matte and fresh.
Hydrating: Despite being effective at removing oil, good gel cleansers also contain hydrating ingredients to help maintain the skin’s moisture balance and keep skin comfortable.
Whether you have dry, oily, or sensitive skin, we are here to help you find the right gel cleanser for fresh, clear-looking, glowing skin all summer long. Using products that don't suit the season can leave skin feeling dry, dehydrated, oily or sensitised, so choosing the right products for the right season helps skin look and feel its best.
What products/textures are best for the summer?
Oils and balms make great cleansers in the winter because they do their job while also nourishing and moisturising the skin. However, as temperatures begin to rise and skin no longer needs so much richness, you can swap them out for lighter, gel-textured cleansers instead. For the summer we recommend a light, soft and gentle gel format cleanser.
Gel cleansers are typically water-based and have a clear, jelly-like consistency. They are designed to cleanse the skin by removing dirt, excess oil and impurities without leaving skin feeling stripped. This makes them well suited to summer, when sweat, sunscreen and extra oil can leave skin feeling heavy or congested.
We understand that switching up skincare products can be daunting, and it's natural to feel hesitant about trying something new without knowing how your skin will react. Patch test new products first, and adapt your routine to the season to keep your skin looking its best.
How many times a day should I be washing and exfoliating my face in the summer?
Maintaining a proper skincare routine is key, especially during the summer when your skin is exposed to higher levels of heat, humidity and UV rays. One step often overlooked is removing SPF at the end of the day. Sunscreen can leave a residue that can make skin feel congested if it isn't cleansed away properly, so use a gentle yet effective cleanser to remove sunscreen and other impurities.
Knowing how often to wash and exfoliate your face can help you keep your skin clean and comfortable without overdoing it. Wash your skin twice a day, in the morning and evening, and add a double cleanse (at night only) if you wear make-up or sunscreen. If you need a midday refresh, consider using a facial mist to hydrate and cool your skin. Washing your face more than twice daily is not recommended, as it can leave skin feeling stripped. Similarly, exfoliate once or twice a week, adding a third session only if your skin tolerates it. Exfoliation can make skin more sensitive to the sun, so use SPF every day and avoid exfoliating immediately before sun exposure. Keep your exfoliation routine consistent and gentle year-round to avoid irritating your skin barrier.
What cleansers should I be using?
Choosing the right gel cleanser can make your skincare routine feel better, especially during the summer months. Based on your skin type and specific needs, here are some recommendations for the best gel cleansers.
You can find below, our selection of gel cleansers.
Skindays cleanser recommendation depending on your skin type.
Gel cleansers can be intimidating, especially if you have skin concerns. Nevertheless here are our recommendations depending on our skin concerns.
Dry Skin:
Venn Moisture balance All-in-one Face Cleanser - Hydrating, balancing and enhancing - designed to cleanse pores and leave your complexion feeling refreshed and comfortable.
Oily & Acne-prone Skin:
Lixirskin Electrogel Cleanser - Purifying - helps dissolve makeup, dirt and impurities for a thorough-feeling cleanse, leaving pores looking cleaner.
Sensitive Skin:
Holidermie Cleansing Gel Emulsion - Balancing, enhancing, purifying - Gently removes impurities and makeup, leaving a comforting sensation.
Adapting your skincare routine for summer means using lightweight, hydrating and protective products to handle the season's challenges, such as excess oil, clogged-feeling pores and sunscreen residue. A few simple adjustments can help your skin look healthy and glowing throughout the hottest months.
Gel Cleanser FAQs
What is the best face cleanser for summer?
A lightweight gel cleanser is a popular summer choice because it is water-based, non-greasy and removes sweat, sunscreen and excess oil without leaving skin feeling heavy. Pick one that suits your skin type.
How often should I use a gel cleanser?
Twice a day, morning and evening, is enough for most people. At night, double cleanse if you wear make-up or sunscreen.
Is a gel cleanser good for oily or acne-prone skin?
Gel cleansers are often chosen for oily and combination skin because they feel light and help remove excess oil. Choose a gentle formula and avoid over-washing, which can leave skin feeling stripped.
Can I use a gel cleanser on dry or sensitive skin?
Yes, if the formula is hydrating and gentle. Look for comforting, non-stripping gels and patch test any new product first.
Should I use a gel cleanser or a cleansing oil in summer?
Oils and balms suit richer winter routines; gel cleansers feel lighter in the heat. Many people use an oil first at night to remove sunscreen, then a gel cleanser to finish.