The importance of cleansing is paramount in your first steps towards an effective skincare routine. It is one of my favourite steps. The feeling of removing the days remnants is so very therapeutic and actually transforms into a mini ritual for me, especially when using rich nurturing textures and ingredients that melt those surface impurities away, whilst leaving the complexion feeling conditioned.
There are a variety of new formulations dedicated to providing the ultimate cleansing solution, however, what you decide to choose will be dependant upon your budget, skin type and personal preference regarding textures, fragrance/no fragrance, eco-friendly packaging, ingredients, brand loyalty and performance.
So why do I need to cleanse my skin?
Your morning cleansing step will provide a clean base for other skincare products and ingredients to penetrate and work more effectively.
Your evening cleansing step will remove surface dirt, bacteria, oil, sweat, make-up (if worn) and the addition of SPF. These substances will accumulate on your skin through the duration of your day.
The concept of double cleansing
This a key technique and something trained skincare therapists have been applying to their professional practices for a long time. A client will usually more often than not, attend their appointment with make up on ~ foundation formulations such as double wear and long wear take cleansing to a whole new level!
Sometimes, within a facial this can be a lengthy process and why it’s recommended that you come with a light make up application (or none-if you feel you can) to ensure the facial is focusing on addressing key concerns and using active ingredients and application techniques for the best results!
Cleansing the skin twice will ensure a through, deeper cleanse and is something you should ideally introduce to your evening cleansing routine, although some like to incorporate it into their morning routine too.
First Cleanse
I recommend using a balm, cream or oil textured cleanser to really break down impurities and make up on the skin surface.
Spend time massaging this product in. This will encourage fresh blood flow to the skins surface, instantly making your complexion look brighter when you remove with a warm damp cotton cloth or muslin. Pat skin dry.
Tip: If you are short on time you can always use a micellar water to perform this step.
Second Cleanse
You can choose to use the same cleanser, or an alternative treatment cleanser. These will usually contain specific ingredients to address a key concern, enhancing an effective cleansing routine.
These ingredients will be 'active' on the skin causing a physical change in the texture of the skin and may contain acids such as salicylic or lactic.
Going in with a targeted secondary cleanse will also provide results for concerns such as ageing, pigmentation, redness, excess oil or congestion.
Tip: Don't forget to cleanse close to your hairline and include your neck, décolletage and behind the ears! These areas are easily forgotten!
What type of cleanser formulations should I choose?
Cream Cleansers and Cleansing Milks
A traditional cleansing formula that provides soothing relief for those with dry or dehydrated skin concerns. These generally have more hydrating qualities. Certain cleansing milks are usually applied with cotton pads.
The cream cleansers I enjoy using will have the principle of removing with a hot cloth to really encourage warmth to the skin and have the added element of a gentle surface exfoliation due to the texture of the muslin cloth used.
I have tried and tested
Cleansing Balms
A personal favourite, they provide a gentle but effective cleanse and are usually a combination of plant oils, waxes, essential oils and herbs that tackle make up and impurities by literally melting them away. I find I can replicate a spa-like moment or two when spending time massaging these beautiful texture into the skin. The complexion will feel immediately conditioned upon removal. Ideal for most skin types but always ensure they don’t contain mineral oil as this can clog pores and cause congestion overtime.
Current favourites I have enjoyed using;
Gel Based Cleansers
Preferred for combination skin that may suffer with excess oil. They will usually contain exfoliating surfactants to really resurface and balance the skins surface. Great for normal to oily skin types.
Some newer hybrid cleansers may start as a gel cleanser but once massaged in the complexion diffuse into an oil texture, then once water is added into the mix they turn into a milky texture. Great for rebalancing combination skin types.
A great example of this is
Cleansing Oils
The benefits of using a cleansing oil is that they provide effective removal of impurities and make up without stripping the skin. They are intensely nourishing as they usually contain a blend of plant based oils, whilst gliding effortlessly over the skin. Ideal for all skin types and perfect as a first step cleanse. I tend to use one that slightly emulsify once water is added.
I recommend
Facial Washes
Ideal for more resilient skin types as some traditional formulations can leave the skin feeling stripped of oil and you can experience a tight sensation. This could be a sign that the product may be to harsh for you. Be sure to avoid sodium lauryl sulphate (SLS) which can contribute towards over drying the skin.
However, new generation formulations contain plant-derived foaming agents that are well received by the skin.
A no frills cleanser that I always recommend is the CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser. Packed full of ceramides and hyaluronic acid it is my fail safe go to and ideal for all skin types!
Tip: Look for pH balanced cleansers between 4.5-5.5
Micellar Waters
These hybrid cleansing waters originate from French Pharmaceutical brands and are considered a simple and effective way to remove surface impurities and make up. You apply to a cotton wool round and swipe over the face, neck and décolletage. I would most certainly recommend this as a first cleanse if you are short on time and follow with a separate secondary cleansing product.
I have used and can recommend;
Cleansing Bars
A personal preference and an alternative to the above pre packaged cleansers. These are becoming ever-more popular for those who are making a conscious shift to reduce packaging within their beauty routines. Modern formulations are made without the addition of fragrance and using ingredients to help maintain the skins acid mantle. Always ensure you rinse all traces of the cleansing bar from the skin and check for the pH levels too.
Tip: Have a collection of fresh facial cloths so you can use a new one each morning.
This stops the transfer and harbouring of unnecessary bacteria
How to cleanse effectively
~ Wash your hands before starting
~ Apply 1st cleansing product to your face, neck and décolletage and behind your ears
~ Massage in to your skin using up and outward gliding strokes
~ Perform circular movements in areas of concern (where congestion may surface)
~ Continue massaging for at least 1-2 minutes (even longer if you have time for your second cleanse)
~ Rinse a fresh wash cloth in warm water and remove any traces of cleanser. Repeat this a couple of times.
~ Pat your skin dry
~ REPEAT ABOVE STEPS with chosen second cleanser choice
I hope you have found this feature useful.
What cleansers are your current favourites?
If you have any additional questions regarding your cleansing routine please just drop me a message in the comments below.
