Cleansing. Why is it important and why should you do it? Essentially, cleansing is preparing the skin for the application of further products - helping to remove environmental pollution, oil and residue from the skin.
Not only will cleansing help remove make-up and residue, it will also help remove the build-up of dry skin cells. It's these dry skin cells that form a barrier against the absorption of serums and moisturisers. Along with exfoliation, regular cleansing will ensure the skin is prepped and clean - resulting in a more healthy complexion.
With each skin type needing a different type of care, take a look below to discover the most effective routine and products for your skin type.
Dry skin
How often should I exfoliate?
Dry skin should be exfoliated 3-4 times a week, as the dead skin cells are more visible. Exfoliation also gently stimulates the production of oil on the skin so it is essential that dryer skin is exfoliated more regularly. This will help the skin to produce more oil - revealing dryness naturally.
Top Tip: Cleansers & balms that are oil based are the perfect texture for drier skin types!
The perfect steps for dry skin:
- Begin by cleansing the skin with a milky cleanser or an oily balm to remove any makeup or dirt from the skin.
- Once you've cleansed the skin, continue your routine by using an exfoliant that contains a mechanical element such as hardened, encapsulated oil or plant seeds.
- Complete by using a hydrating toner. This will help to balance the PH of your skin before you apply your moisturiser.
Oily skin
Oily skin naturally produces higher levels of sebum than other skin types so it doesn’t need encouragement to produce more. Oily skin should be exfoliated no more than once to twice a week. In terms of cleansers, oilier skin types are more suited to a less abrasive exfoliant such as an enzyme cleanser. This type of cleanser is effective at removing dirt and oil yet gentle enough to not over stimulate it.
The perfect cleanse for oily skin:
- Begin your cleansing routine by using a foaming cleanser. This type of cleanser gently cleans the skin but it doesn't strip the skin of its essential oils.
- Double cleansing is super essential for oily skin types - providing a more effective cleanse and leading to better results.
- Following on from your cleanse, use an enzyme exfoliant. This will help to dissolve dead skin and gently remove debris from blocked pores.
- Complete your cleansing routine by using a balancing toner. This is great for regulating skin and spritzers are perfect for using throughout the day!
Sensitive skin
Red patches, areas of dryness, blemishes and maybe even tight or itchy skin, are all characteristics of sensitive skin. Sensitive skin types can be oily or dry, and can affect all ages. Whatever you use, you should make sure it's not too abrasive as sensitive skin should be treated carefully. Probiotic skincare helps to manage the level of inflammation within the skin to help achieve the perfect balance, leaving you with more radiant skin.
The perfect cleanse for sensitive skin
1. Begin your cleansing routine with gentle milky cleanser or gentle foaming washes.
2. Exfoliating your skin is also really important if you have sensitive skin, but it's also important to consider whether your skin is more on the oily or dry side. When opting for a cleanser or exfoliator, always go for products that have been developed specifically for sensitive skin types in mind. That way, you can be assured your skin won't be irritated.
3. Complete your cleansing routine by using a refreshing toner. This will help to refresh the skin and help to balance the PH levels too.
