How to effectively use cleansers as a part of your skincare routine
First things first - cleansing your face is absolutely imperative. Skipping this step in your morning and evening routine can be forgiven once, maybe twice in a week, but it's a no-no to forget a third time. This is the most essential part of your skincare, day and night, as it removes harmful pollutants, rids your face of makeup and oils that can cause clogged pores, dullness, acne and can enhance visual signs of ageing.
Find the cleanser that’s right for your skin type
You’d be forgiven for feeling overwhelmed with the amount of conflicting information out there about the plethora of skincare products, it’s enough to confuse just about anyone. It’s always important to do your research or speak to a professional about what is best for your skincare and we can help with that - book online here. In the meantime, here is some basic information on products for different skin types of skin.
Foaming cleansers - suitable for oily or combination skin that can be acne prone. This cleanser will lightly remove dirt and makeup and soften the skin.
Gel cleansers - most suited to combination, normal or oily skin or skin that is sensitive to inflammation. This cleanser is light, hydrating and easily removes light makeup and leaves skin feeling fresh.
Cream cleanser - for normal, dry and sensitive skin types. Cream cleansers are silky in texture and remove most dirt and makeup, unless it is a waterproof product.
Oil cleansers - suitable for all skin types. This kind of product will leave your skin soft and supple. But if you prefer a thorough cleanser to remove heavy makeup, you may need a foaming cleanser to follow this product.
5 important steps for cleansing your face
Cleansing your face may seem like a super simple concept, but rest assured there are people out there who have been doing it wrong. Here are our tips for getting the best results from the first step of your skincare routine.
- Prep yourself
If you have long hair, tie it back. If your hair is cropped short then a headband can help in this process. Make sure you have the water in your basin or coming out of your taps at the right temperature - lukewarm is the best, not too hot, not too cold. Give your hands a wash first so you’re not transferring anymore dirty onto your face as you’re cleansing.
- Apply the cleanser
Just remember that a little goes a long way and these products can be expensive. Make your cleanser last longer by using about a coin size squirt on the palm of your hand and rub your hands together. Apply to the face while making sure to avoid the eye area ,as some cleansers can cause irritation.
- Massage in a circular motion
Once the cleanser has been applied to your face, use damp fingertips to massage the product into the skin. Circular movements are the best for this step, as you can really get into those clogged up areas around your nose and chin. Massaging your face also relieves tension, stimulates circulation and can help to de-puff your face by encouraging drainage of the lymphatic system.
- Rinse your face
Give your face a really good rinse with clean lukewarm water. There’s lots of different ways you can do this but double handed splash is a great technique, just be careful not to breathe in while you’re splashing your face. If you fancy using a face cloth to get the excess cleanser off then make sure you thoroughly rinse the cloth out between wiping your face each time.
- Repeat
But only if necessary! A double cleanse can strip your face of natural oils that act as a barrier function, but you may need to cleanse first to remove any heavy makeup you’ve been wearing or intense pollutants you’ve encountered during the day. The second cleanse is the one that gets rid of dead skin cells and excess oils, meaning your serums and moisturisers can be applied more effectively afterwards.
Want to know more about which cleanser is best for your skin type? Please don’t hesitate to get in contact with our team of professionals to book in a facial or other consultation today.