We have all been there; after a long, tiring day before our head hits the pillow, we reach for the makeup wipes or – in some cases (me included) – baby wipes. They do a surprisingly good job. Heaven forbid we commit the cardinal sin of the beauty world and – GASP – sleep in our makeup! But, we all know this is real life and I think we have all come to accept that this is going to happen from time to time.
However, when we have ran out of wipes, are noticing the effects of not removing makeup properly, or have a little more time to make the effort, it is time to know which cleansers are right for you and your skin.
We cannot pretend that it is a very exciting subject but getting cleanser educated is key! As, let’s face it, a good cleansing routine can make all the difference on the arduous road to a healthy, clear complexion. Luckily for us, the beauty industry is on hand to provide the solutions. For decades now, cosmetic science has had to work a lot harder to keep up with the demands of our varying lifestyles, skin types, and – of course – the introduction of waterproof makeup.
But, without further ado it’s time to get savvy, ladies! Let’s find the very best cleanser for your skin!
Cleansing tools for all skin types – The main and most common aid to use when cleansing is a muslin cloth. This simple piece of material is mainly used in conjunction with a cream cleanser and effectively removes all traces of makeup whilst exfoliating the skin.
However, a more advanced option is to go for a facial cleansing brush which will speed up cell rejuvenation to reduce the signs of ageing. It will also remove dead skin cells to leave ultra soft skin, and also prevent possible breakouts by thoroughly removing the dirt and oil from open pores. Of course, the main facial cleansing brush that springs to most people’s minds is the much loved Clarisonic Cleansing System (£155) which, in essence, is a large toothbrush-type device for the face! This does work amazingly well, though it does come with quite a hefty price tag. A great introduction to cleansing with a facial brush would come from opting for a manual face brush. A good example of this is the Boots Botanics Face Brush (£6.24) which is an all natural brush that can be used with any cleanser and can actually achieve similar results to that of the Clarisonic.
Cleansers for all skin types – There really is no reason to opt for a ‘one suits all’ cleanser anymore. However, if you are lucky enough to have clear, non-problematic skin then a cleanser that literally just cleanses the skin but also enhances what is already there is what you need to look for. A perfect higher-end example of this is the Bliss Triple Oxygen Instant Energizing Cleansing Foam (£24/148ml) which is the first ever cleanser to deliver oxygen and vitamin C to leave the skin looking bright and feeling refreshed! For a cheaper alternative, Superdrug’s Vitamin E Hot Cloth Cleanser (£5.99/200ml) which comes with a muslin cloth offers a deep cleanse without stripping the skin and is definitely the star product of their new skincare line.
Cleanser for oily/problematic skin – Finding that right balance in a cleanser for oily skin can be tough going – you want to thoroughly clean the skin to remove all dirt from pores but do not want to strip the skin of its natural oils. Doing so will only make the skin produce more oil, making the problem worse. A new scientific-based soap that is perfect for problem skin is Cor The Silver Soap (£15 for 10g trail size/£35 for 30g); your purse may not thank you for the purchase but the silver that is contained in the soap has amazing anti-bacterial properties, removes makeup amazingly well, and can even be used as a spot treatment. A much cheaper alternative ‘non-soap’ soap is Sebamed Cleansing Bar (£2.45/100g) which is a mild product that helps balance the ph levels in the skin; a very effective choice for anyone with acne-prone or oily skin. However, if you prefer to use a cleanser that foams then a mild gel cleanser that contains salicylic acid should be at the top of your list.
Cleanser for sensitive skin – When looking for a cleanser to suit sensitive skin you want to choose something that is alcohol and fragrance-free. A perfect example of this is the Green People Organic Base No Scent Cleanser (£16.95/200ml) which is an ultra-gentle cleanser that can be used to remove makeup even on the most sensitive of skin. A slightly cheaper alternative – but still very mild option – is the Avene Extremely Gentle Cleanser (£8.00/200ml) which is ideal for highly sensitive or stressed out skin.
Cleanser for mature/dry skin – Mature and dry skin benefits greatly from hydration, but it also requires a gentle cleanser that won’t be too tough on the skin. This makes oil, cream, and balm-based cleansers an ideal choice. Also, that trusty muslin cloth with your cleanser of choice will help to gently remove dead skin cells. Decleor’s Cleansing Cream (£18.30/250ml) is a lovely cleanser to use on both the eyes and face that is not overly heavy, but fabulous for dry skin. Or, for a lovely luxury-feeling balm-to-oil cleanser there is the Boots Botanics Organic Cleansing Balm (£6.63/70g) which feels a real treat to use, melts into the skin, and locks in moisture.
Of course the world of cleansers is a lot more complex than this article alone and finding your perfect cleanser is partly trial and error. Simply use this guide to guide you towards a cleanser that will match you, your skin, and your budget.