(see also What is my skin type? Facial cleanser basics, Skin Barrier basics)
Mild cleansers are your skin’s best friend. Do not under-estimate the damage that you’ll do to your skin vis-a-vis vigorous washing especially in the winter.
Remember that your skin is already quite dry so try to
- Use lesser amounts of your existing cleanser OR
- Switch to a milder cleanser.
While wearing less make-up is not an option for many of us, you should consider it if your skin is dry. The additional pressure to your skin in removing make-up simply damages your skin barrier.
Micellar water also works. I am currently road-testing both of these products, and neither has done anything to offend me (yet). The La Roche-Posay is definitely the milder product. I’ll keep you posted on my favourite.
La Roche-Posay Micellar Water Cleanser for Sensitive Skin

Forest Essential’s Micellar Water Make Up Remover

Which mild cleanser?
Shu Uemura
I hadn’t appreciated that Shu Uemura was founded in 1983. I remember it being the first chic brand of make-up that I bought. Before Huda Beauty, this make-up artist made the best eye products and they still do make the best eyelash curlers.
I digress.
Shu Uemura also created the original cleansing oil, that “double” cleanses by removing make-up with the oil and lathers gently to cleanse your face.
Thankfully, its still available online and at US$ 71 for the larger size (450ml) its nearly as cheap as Lifebuoy soap.

Forest Essentials
Contrary to the picture I portray, I do not hate this brand – I just like pointing out obvious failings given its extreme popularity and its momentous growth. It already has over 70 stores in India.
Here are two mild cleansers that I would readily use every day.
Delicate Facial Cleanser Mashobra Honey, Lemon & Rosewater

Delicate Facial Cleanser Kashmiri Saffron & Neem

Oily skin options: Avene Cleanance face gel
When I was younger I had oily skin and a cousin introduced me to Avene, and this product below became my go to face wash for all seasons.

Closing remarks
Please let me know if there is a particular mild cleanser that you favour in the comments below. Thank you for reading…
Photo by Maarten Deckers on Unsplash