When it comes to cleansing your skin, there are a number of important factors that come into play. A simple splash of water in the shower is not sufficient! In this article, we will explain how to choose the appropriate product for your skin type and the art of cleansing properly.
Products
The first step of cleansing is choosing the right cleanser. Studies have shown that your skin is at its healthiest in the morning, having produced vital oils overnight that help with barrier function and repair. Therefore, it is best to use a gentle cleanser in the morning to ensure you are not stripping your skin.
When it comes to your evening routine, it is vital you perform double cleanse to remove dirt and impurities from the day. If you’re wearing makeup, an oil-based cleanser (like the Medik8 Lipid Cleansing Oil) is highly recommended. Oils dissolve in oil, so even stubborn oil-based waterproof make-up will be easily removed, without the need to scrub or tug at the skin. This is particularly important for the cleansing around your delicate eye area. Unlike those chemical-filled makeup wipes, these hydrating formulations generally include essential lipids to replenish the skin’s natural barrier.
Once makeup is removed, you can then go in with the cleanser of your choice. For sensitive skin or those with an impaired barrier, a cream cleanser is a gentle option that will ensure the skin is clean but still feeling calm and soothed.
Normal skin types have more flexibility, as you are able to choose from a range of formulations to suit your personal preference: velvety creams, soft foams, or a cool gel. Your skin should always feel refreshed after cleansing, but if you experience itching or dryness, it’s important to try a more gentle option.
For those who experience oiliness or breakouts, a clarifying cleanser that unclogs pores and lightly exfoliates the skin (without causing dryness or irritation) is best. This will ensure the skin’s natural protective oils are left balanced and blemish-causing bacteria is diminished.
If you still feel like you need a little bit more, cleansers that contain chemical exfoliants are preferred over physical scrubs. This is because the rough granules can cause micro-tears in the skin and impair the barrier (if you still have that infamous apricot scrub, throw it away now). Look for ingredients such as AHAs, BHAs, salicylic acid or lactic acid but always be careful to introduce these gradually to avoid irritation.
Techniques
Once you’ve found your perfect cleanser, there are a few techniques you can adopt for the perfect cleanse. Our first tip is to always ensure you use tepid water, as extreme heat will dry out the skin.
Cream cleansers are best applied to dry skin, as this allows the product to grip to dirt and oils for a thorough cleanse. In comparison, foams and gels are activated when mixed with a small amount of water.
Apply your product to your skin and massage in a circular, upward motion. It is important you take your time, allowing the product to thoroughly cleanse your pores. We recommend taking at least 30-60 seconds.
To remove, gently wipe your skin with a warm washcloth. While rinsing with water in your shower is a more convenient option, the cloth can help to buff away dead skin cells.
Once you are done, you are ready to apply your preferred serums, moisturizers and SPF. Your skin is most receptive to these formulations when it is still warm and moist, so we recommend completing your regime within a few minutes of cleansing.
You can view our range of cosmeceutical skincare here or contact our team for personalized advice and orders.
