What is proper cleansing for healthy skin without causing harm?
Skin Cleansing: Sharing Secrets
Cleansing is one of the three pillars of basic skincare. No matter how effective or expensive your skincare products are, without proper cleansing, you won’t see the desired results. But what makes for good cleansing? Let’s find out with our beauty experts!
Why Daily Cleansing Matters
Every day, your skin is exposed to numerous pollutants. Additionally, your skin’s sebaceous and sweat glands produce sebum and sweat, which mix with dirt and impurities. Imagine applying your favorite serum or moisturizer on top of that mixture! In the best-case scenario, you simply won’t get the benefits of your skincare products and might feel disappointed. But more likely, you’ll encounter clogged pores, breakouts, dullness, flakiness, and other unpleasant effects.
So, let’s not skip cleansing!
What Should Daily Skin Cleansing Look Like?
The routine is simple:
- Evening routine: Makeup removal + cleansing
- Morning routine: Cleansing
A common question might arise: “If I don’t wear makeup, do I still need to remove it?” Our answer is a resounding yes!
Makeup Removal is for Everyone
Whether you wear makeup or not, it’s a good idea to use a makeup remover because it cleanses not only makeup but also sunscreen, accumulated sebum, and other impurities that cleansers or gels can’t fully handle.
How to Choose a Makeup Remover?
There aren’t any strict rules for choosing a makeup remover; trial and error can be the best approach. This allows you to understand your skin’s preferences and find what feels most comfortable. Just be mindful not to overdo the experimenting. There are plenty of products out there, but the main types are micellar water and oil-based cleansers.
Micellar Water
- Micellar water contains micelles, which attract dirt and oil, effectively cleansing the skin’s surface. If your pores don’t require deep cleaning, or if oil-based products tend to irritate your skin, micellar water might be just right for you.
Cleansing Oil
- Cleansing oils work on the principle of “like dissolves like.” Unlike micellar water, which works on the surface, cleansing oils penetrate pores for a deeper cleanse. If your skin feels uncomfortable with the friction of a cotton pad, an oil cleanser may feel gentler than micellar water.
- Cleansing Balm: Balms work similarly to oils and are generally very comfortable to use. However, if you have oily or clog-prone skin, opt for lightweight formulas.
How to Choose a Facial Cleanser?
The range of cleansers is vast: gels, foams, creams, and balms. Try different types and see what suits you best. The main rule is to go for a gentle cleanser that doesn’t make your skin feel tight or dry—avoid sulfates (SLS/SLES), fatty acids like Stearic Acid, Palmitic Acid combined with Sodium Hydroxide, alcohol, or abrasives.
- For dry or sensitive skin: Choose cream-based gentle cleansers that produce minimal foam and provide a delicate cleanse.
- For oily or combination skin: Opt for gels or foams with salicylic acid, which helps control oil and cleanses pores.
A Few Beauty Tips for Comfortable Cleansing
- Double Cleanse: Start with a makeup remover, then follow with a gel or foam cleanser. Always rinse off the makeup remover (even micellar water).
- Mind Water Temperature: Use room-temperature water—hot water can damage your skin barrier.
- Foam It Up First: Lather the cleanser in your hands before applying it to your damp face. (Foaming cleansers are already lathered, so skip this step for them).
- Rinse Thoroughly: Leftover cleanser can irritate your skin.
- Remember Hydration: Immediately after cleansing, apply toner, serum, or emulsion and proceed with your usual routine.
This is your quick guide to keeping your skin fresh and healthy!
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