Cleansing 101: Tips, Tricks, & Best Products for Your Skin Type
Cleansing is the cornerstone of any effective skincare routine, paving the way for healthy, glowing skin by removing impurities, dirt, and excess oil. In this article, we'll explore the various types of cleansers, the differences between them, and the best techniques to ensure a thorough cleanse. Let's start by taking it back to basics because there is a technique to everything, even cleansing.
Benefits of Cleansing
Cleansing has numerous benefits for your skin, including:
Removing dirt, pollutants, and excess oil to prevent clogged pores
Balancing the skin's natural pH levels
Allowing for better absorption of beneficial skincare products
Boosting the skin's hydration and radiance
Types of Cleansers
There are several types of cleansers, and choosing the right one for your skin type is essential. Some common types include:
Foaming: These cleansers create a lather when mixed with water and are effective for removing oil and makeup. They're best for normal to oily skin types.
Non-foaming: These cleansers have a creamy or milky texture and gently cleanse without stripping the skin of its natural oils, making them suitable for dry or sensitive skin types.
Oil-based: Oil cleansers help dissolve makeup, sunscreen, and excess sebum, making them an excellent choice for all skin types, especially as part of the double cleansing method.
Micellar water: This gentle cleansing water contains tiny micelles that work to remove dirt, makeup, and impurities. It's ideal for sensitive or irritated skin.
Identifying Your Skin Type
To choose the right cleanser, you must first determine your skin type. Here are the most common skin types and their characteristics:
Oily: Excess sebum production, enlarged pores, and a shiny complexion.
Dry: Flaky, tight, or rough skin with possible redness.
Combination: A mix of oily and dry areas, typically an oily T-zone with dry cheeks.
Sensitive: Prone to redness, irritation, and inflammation.
Acne-prone: Frequent breakouts, blemishes, and irritation.
Cleansing Techniques & Tips
AM Cleanse
Begin your day with a gentle cleanse as your skin has been repairing itself overnight. Cleansing with water in the morning will remove any oil, sweat, or dead skin cells that have accumulated while you slept - but it’s unlikely you need to use a cleanser in the morning, unless you live in an incredibly hot and humid environment.
PM Cleanse
Nighttime cleansing is essential to remove makeup, dirt, and environmental pollutants that accumulate throughout the day. Double cleansing is recommended, especially if you wear makeup or sunscreen.
Double Cleansing with Bioderma Micellar Water
Start by applying Bioderma micellar water to a cotton pad to remove makeup and sunscreen residue. Follow up with a water-based cleanser to remove any remaining residue and give your skin a deeper cleanse.
Step-By-Step Wash Demo
Best Cleanser by Skin Type
Best for Oily Skin
La Roche Posay Toleriane Purifying Face Wash is a gentle, foaming cleanser that effectively removes dirt, oil and impurities from oily skin, without causing irritation. Enriched with La Roche-Posay Thermal Spring Water, it helps to soothe and hydrate while providing effective cleansing. The addition of glycerin helps to replenish skin's natural oils, and it's free from parabens, soap and alcohol.
Best for Sensitive Skin
Vanicream Gentle Facial Cleanser is a mild, non-irritating cleanser that is ideal for those with sensitive skin. This soap-free formula gently removes makeup, dirt and impurities without causing redness or irritation. It is enriched with panthenol and aloe vera to soothe the skin, leaving it feeling soft and supple afterwards. The addition of free-range surfactants helps to lift dirt away while respecting the skin's natural protective barrier.
Best for Dry Skin
Bioderma Atoderm Cleansing Oil is a nourishing cleansing oil that gently removes makeup and impurities from dry skin, without stripping away its natural oils. Enriched with Bioderma’s patented natural complex, it helps to restore the skin's hydro-lipid barrier, leaving it feeling soft and hydrated. Its non-greasy formula also helps to protect against environmental aggressors, while helping to keep the skin feeling comfortable all day long.
Best for Acne
PanOxyl Antimicrobial Acne Foaming Wash is a powerful cleanser that helps to clear acne-prone skin. It contains 10% benzoyl peroxide, an antibacterial agent which helps to kill the bacteria that cause breakouts and reduce inflammation. Its foaming lather helps to gently remove dirt and oil, while helping to maintain the skin’s natural balance. It is also non-comedogenic, so it won't clog your pores. With regular use, it will help to keep breakouts at bay, leaving you with clear, healthy-looking skin.
At But More Importantly, we work hard to bring you the best advice and recommendations for products that will help improve your skin. Our team of experts carefully research and test items across a wide range of categories so that you can make informed decisions when shopping online. From acne treatments to glycerin, sunscreen basics to the best face cleansers, and summer makeup to the ultimate sensitive skin routine, you can count on us for helpful advice and exclusive deals. We update our links when possible, so be sure to check back often as prices change frequently. Keep reading and take your skin to the next level!
