How to Choose the Best Cleanser for Your Skin
When it comes to building an effective skincare routine, the most important step is also the simplest: cleansing. But not all cleansers are created equal and choosing the right one is the difference between skin that feels merely clean and skin that looks balanced, luminous, and ready to absorb every active ingredient that follows.
Today, we’re putting two Pelactiv favourites head-to-head in the ultimate Battle of the Cleansers:
our iconic Gentle Foaming Cleanser, and our new Glycolic Treatment Cleanser, also known as the ultimate Glycolic Cleanser for refining and brightening the complexion.
Whether you prefer a soft, silky cleanse or a results-driven, exfoliating treatment, here’s how to decide which formula suits your skin best.
Meet the Contenders
Gentle Foaming Cleanser: The Everyday Essential
Our Gentle Foaming Cleanser is a beautifully balanced gel cleanser designed for all skin types, especially dry, sensitive or easily irritated skin. Unlike many gel cleansers that can strip the barrier, this formula cocoons the skin in a soft, creamy foam that leaves it feeling clean, hydrated and calm.
Although gentle and non-stripping, the formula also works as a mild lactic acid cleanser, helping refine the skin’s texture in the most delicate way. This makes it ideal for anyone who wants a cleanser that supports smoothness without the strength of AHAs or exfoliating acids.
Why it works so well:
- Lightweight gel texture that transforms into a silky foam.
- Balances the skin without disrupting hydration.
- Suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin.
- Perfect for daily AM/PM use.
- Compatible with active serums, exfoliants and professional treatments.
If your skin thrives on softness, comfort and simplicity, this cleanser remains the gold standard.
Glycolic Treatment Cleanser: The Radiance Refiner
Our newly launched Glycolic Treatment Cleanser is a powerful Glycolic Acid Cleanser designed for those seeking visible brightening, exfoliation and refinement. This formula acts as a high-performance skin cleanser with glycolic acid, dissolving dead skin cells, improving texture and helping unclog congestion with every cleanse.
As a true glycolic cleanser, it resurfaces the skin at a deeper level than traditional face washes, making it ideal for dullness, congestion, uneven tone, fine lines and thickened or lacklustre skin.
What makes it different:
- Powered by professional-grade Glycolic Acid.
- Provides gentle daily exfoliation (or 2–4x weekly for sensitive skin).
- Refines uneven texture and brightens overall tone.
- Helps minimise congestion and the appearance of pores.
- Ideal for normal, combination, oily and ageing skin.
Think of it as your cleanser and treatment in one step, and perfect for those wanting a more active, results-driven approach.
Which Cleanser Does Your Skin Need?
Choose the Gentle Foaming Cleanser (Gel Cleanser + Lactic Acid Cleanser) if:
- Your skin is sensitive, reactive or easily stripped.
- You prefer a soft, comforting cleanse.
- You’re new to active skincare.
- You want an everyday staple that keeps the skin balanced.
- Hydration and barrier protection are your priorities.
Choose the Glycolic Treatment Cleanser (Glycolic Cleanser / Glycolic Acid Cleanser) if:
- Your skin is dull, uneven or textured.
- You want brighter, smoother, clearer skin.
- You’re comfortable with active ingredients.
- Clearing congestion or refining pores is a focus.
- You want a skin cleanser with glycolic acid that doubles as a mild exfoliating treatment.
Many Pelactiv customers use both:
Gentle Foaming Cleanser: for daily balance
Glycolic Treatment Cleanser: 2–4 times a week for deeper refinement.
The Verdict: Why Not Both?
In this Battle of the Cleansers, there’s no true winner because both deliver exceptional results in their own unique way. The real victory is in choosing the formula that works with your skin, not against it.
Whether you’re craving calm or clarity, Pelactiv has your perfect cleanse.
