Cleansers: The First Step in Great Skin Care

If people use no skin care products, you can pretty much be assured that they are still washing their face with something.

Some use soap or even shampoo. Yet these same people know that you don’t use laundry detergent in the dishwasher.

Just because somethings cleans one thing, does not mean it’ll work  for another. Think of all the different types of skin you have: soles of your feet, cuticles, body, scalp and face. All different on their own. Thank science that there are ways to take care of each of them properly.

Skin is very complicated. With a delicate balance of sweat and sebum (oil), at it’s best it will have a bacteria killing pH of 4.5 to 5.5 and will feel soft, clean and smooth. Throw those out of whack and you’ll get irritation, redness, dryness, excessive oil or breakouts.

Soaps are much too alkaline for the skin. They raise the pH , leave a film and then dry out the skin. This will weaken it and often cause tightness dehydration and redness. It’s common for any products applied afterwards to not work properly as well.

Luckily there are many other options out there, you will find one that matches your skin and your price range. That being said, even as an esthetician I could never justify some of the outrageous prices spa lines charge for something you’re essentially washing down the sink.

Keep in mind that each of these is designed to remove dirt, makeup, build up and some oil. They will all clean, it’s just a matter of finding the one for YOUR skin.

And the options are…..

Cleansing Wash

Skin Type: Normal, combination, oily, acne prone

Texture:  Fluid or gel that may foam up when worked onto the skin

These usually have a neutral or slightly acidic pH and rinse completely off. They may cause a slight amount of dryness or tightness to them depending on the formula. Some people require that feeling to mentally feel clean.

If the foaming comes from the pump action, they’re usually a bit more moisturizing.

Cleansers with AHA’s or salicylic acid in them are mildly more effective if you’re oily or acneic. You do have let the cleanser work on the skin for a minute or two. Splashing it on then immediately off won’t really give it time to be beneficial.

Look for the words “gentle” and “soap free”. You’re less likely to get dry and irritated.

Cleansing Lotion/Milk

Skin Type: Normal, combination, dehydrated, sensitive

Texture: Light, water based emulsions

No foaming here. These are massaged onto the skin, make sure to give it time to really dissolve makeup and debris on the skin. Often usable as eye makeup removers (depending on other added ingredients) these are soft feeling.  For sensitive, slightly oily types these are perfect. Non irritating they effectively and gently cleanse. They are usually wiped off with a damp cloth to ensure the entire product is removed. They can have added ingredients to benefit any skin type depending on the formula. They need to be followed with a toner to make sure all of it is removed.

Cleansing Cream or Oil

Skin Type: Dry or dehydrated, mature, sensitive

Texture: Thicker, oil based emulsions. Sometimes creamy, somtimes an actual oil.

These are great for those that are lacking in oil on the skin. Oddly enough they are also perfect at removing heavy makeup. Think of old timey cold creams being used by actresses. They emulsify beautifully and lift everything off while remaining softening and hydrating. Good  quality ones will have sophisticated formulas that cleanse and support the skin. Even if you happen to have acneic or oily skin and if you wear a lot of makeup it may be best to do your first cleanse with an oil, then a second with a wash.

No matter which type of formula you go with, it’s important that your skin feel good after using it. Pay attention to it. It should feel fresh and soft, ready for the next step in your routine.

What’s your favorite cleanser?

Tags: cleanser, cleansing cream, cleansing lotion, face wash, skin care routine, Skincare

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