When you think about your cleansing routine, is it more like mere seconds of splashing water on your face to get over with or do you try removing every last trace of dirt, scrubbing away until your skin is left feeling raw?
While you may not give a second thought about cleansing, it actually involves a delicate balance that sets the tone for everything that follows after. Cleanse with something harsh that disrupts the skin’s natural pH and you can end up with a dry, tight skin that looks aged. Using a cleanser that’s too rich for your skin can result in clogged pores and breakouts.
Thoroughly cleansing with the appropriate cleanser helps keep pores clean, prepare the skin for other products, may contain ingredients to counteract various skin problems and can help certain skin conditions such as dehydration and sensitivity. Read below for a guide on cleansers and tips!
Types Of Cleansers
Oil-based/Creams
Cleansers that are oil-based can be good for all skin types and also aid in breaking down sunscreen and makeup. Actors and performers who wear heavy stage makeup can benefit from these types of cleansers as well.
Cream cleansers that are rich are best suited for mature skin that is dry; the emollients can soften dry skin and not dry it out.
Cleansing Gels/Foaming Cleansers–
These cleansers are are designed to whisk away oil and deep cleanse. These are appropriate for those with normal, combination, or oily skin.
Cleansing Lotions
Cleansing lotions (also referred to as milky cleansers) are like that of a cream, just with a lighter consistency. They can be used for normal, dry or combination skin.
Tips
- Different seasons can call for different types of cleansers. Combination, normal and dry skin types may benefit from a cleansing lotion/cream in the fall and winter, but prefer an cleansing gel in the spring and summer when oil production is higher.
- Tread cautiously if you are acne-prone and try an oil-based cleanser. Certain ones can make you break out
- Use gentle, circular motions and avoid aggressive tugging or pressure.
- If you use a spinning brush like the Clarisonic in conjunction with your cleanser, use it no more than three times per week to avoid irritation and wash well after each use.
- Cleanse your face in the morning once and twice in the evening.
You don’t have to spend a large amount of time on cleansing- just enough to remove the accumulation of sunscreen, pollution, dirt, debris and oil. Trust me, your skin will thank you.
