We tend to put all our focus into our numerous skincare products and often pay little attention to the most important job of all: Cleansing. Cleansing is the foundation of all good skincare routines and its role is more significant than all other skincare products combined. In fact, the rest of your skincare routine is largely ineffective if your skin isn’t properly cleansed, as it is difficult for active ingredients to function correctly when blocked by thick layers of dirt, grime and other daily pollutants. On the other hand, clean skin will allow for easier absorption of your other products, making your overall routine much more effective. Thus, if you’re looking to have clear, healthy skin, then finding an appropriate cleanser is the essential first step.
Identify your skin type
As always, before you put anything on your skin, it’s important to understand your skin type. For the most part, this can just be done through simple observation. If you notice your make-up is sliding off and a dull shine is generated on some areas, then you probably have oily skin. You can glide tissue paper over your face to confirm this if you need extra proof.
When it comes to dry skin, you should gently feel your skin for rough and stiff areas. Skin flakes is a possibility too when your skin is extremely dry and begging for moisture and hydration. Identifying your skin type helps to inform your purchase decisions and helps to avoid any unintentional damage to your skin.
How to select a suitable cleanser for you?
Regardless of your skin type, we strongly suggest to avoid using any soap-like cleansers on your face. Most soaps are alkaline and will wash off essential moisture from the face, leading to dry or even peeling skin. Therefore, avoid alkaline soap and select a Ph balanced cleanser that matches the skin. For oily skin, a cleanser with foam is a good match. For dry skin, go with a milk-based cleanser for best results.
How to identify if your cleanser is not the right fit?
As we mentioned earlier, if your cleanser is not up to the task, then the rest of your skin care routine is rather insignificant. Most of our readers love their moisturiser, serums and other products but they often complain about lack of results from any of these products. It is possible that the root of the problem is an ineffective cleanser.
When your skin is not properly cleansed, none of the above products can be properly absorbed into the skin. So, if you’re noticing a constant lack of results from your other skin care products, it might be a good idea to shop around for a new cleanser. Your cleanser should also not cause your skin to look dry, dull and sickly. This can happen when the cleanser is harmful to your skin’s pure moisture and Ph levels. Redness and blisters can also occur if your cleanser is damaging your skin. Make sure your cleanser isn’t overly packed with preservatives and foaming agents as it could end up leaving painful spots on skin due to redness and breakouts. Be observant about the effects of your cleanser on your skin and watch out for any of these signs that suggest that your cleanser is probably not right for you.
Written By
Zen Xiao