Cleansing your skin is the starting point of any regimen and it is important to do it both morning and night. The purpose in the AM is to wash off any residue your skin has purged during its natural repair cycle, which happens while you sleep. This also gives your makeup a smooth canvas to start. If you use an exfoliating cleanser, morning is an ideal time. At night, you cleanse again to wash off any makeup, dirt, and environmental pollution that can clog pores and cause wrinkles. Although they can vary in ingredients, the function of all cleansers is the same: to keep your complexion fresh and clean. You can use the same cleanser morning and night. If your budget allows, it is also very beneficial to use an exfoliating cleanser in the morning and a more moisturizing cleanser at night. Or, vice versa, depending on your skin type. How do I know which cleanser is right for me? Well, preference of texture is a big factor. If you love a gel cleanser I probably won’t be able to convince you to use a creamy cleanser. But there are certain textures that cater to specific skin types. There are exceptions but in general the following tips apply: If you have dry skin, you will probably prefer a creamy cleanser or a cleansing bar. Creamy cleansers can be soothing and moisturizing to a dry or irritated skin type. Most remove make up, are gentle and effective. Normal-to-combination skin types are usually well-served by a foaming cleanser, which are available in creamy or gel formulations. They help balance the oil in the t-zone and hydrate the drier cheek areas. The oily and acne-prone types really benefit from gel cleansers. Gels tend to be more oil absorbing. You can also find them with acne–fighting ingredients like Salicylic Acid. Typically oily skin is more tolerant than the other skin types and can handle stronger acids. Cleansing oils are a great option for all skin types. They can be a bit harder to fully remove so a second rinse might be required. Oils are excellent for breaking up long-wear makeup. Micellar waters or “waterless” cleansers are really handy for the woman on the move. Just swipe on and no rinsing is needed. Another all-skin type option is cleansing bars. They are available for each skin type as well, so you just have to know what suits you best. Bars with good ingredients are a great option for men as well. As always, if you need help determining your skin type or would like personalized product recommendations, please call to speak with one of our estheticians. We are happy to help!
