What type of cleanser is best for my skin type?
There are lots of different types of cleansers, which can make knowing how to wash your face confusing: oil-based, gel cleansers, cleansing balms; cream cleansers being the main options.
An oil-based cleanser can be your best friend when it comes to melting off your makeup, but if you have oily skin you may want to avoid them and opt for a cream cleanser instead. Cream cleansers are great for oily skin types, as well as dry and dehydrated skin types.
As are cleansing balms! “Cleansing balms are rich and nourishing, making them absolute heaven for dry, mature, or dehydrated skins,” Sarah said – “as well as being the ultimate first step to dissolve heavy makeup.
Elsewhere, “gel cleansers offer a lightweight, refreshing clarity that oilier or blemish-prone complexions adore. Using both is actually a brilliant double-cleansing strategy – start with a luxurious balm to melt away the day and follow with a gentle gel to deeply refresh the skin.”
Whatever cleanser type you choose, we’d recommend that you avoid cleansers that are heavily perfumed, scented or foaming, especially if you have sensitive skin – as this can cause further irritation.
READ MORE: The very best cleansers for mature skin, reviewed.
Should you always double cleanse?
“While you don’t need to double cleanse in the morning, doing so in the evening is a great way to achieve radiant, healthy-looking skin. The first cleanse acts as your makeup and SPF remover, melting away the day’s surface impurities, while the second cleanse can actually get to work on treating the skin,” Sarah told me.
“The second cleanse it also where I like to incorporate some massage techniques to help stimulate blood flow, drain excess liquid and give yourself a really grounding moment to yourself,” – but more on that later.
READ MORE: My honest double cleansing review.
Always, always remove all of your makeup
We’ve nodded to it above – but what skin experts and dermatologists can agree on is the importance of your night time cleanse to wash away your makeup. You should never go to sleep without doing so.
Double cleansing – first with a micellar water followed by an oil- or cream-based cleanser – is necessary for those wearing full coverage foundation or long-lasting mascara. “If you’re wearing heavy eye makeup, I love to pre-treat the delicate eye area with a dedicated, gentle remover so you aren’t pulling or dragging the skin during your main cleanse,” Sarah told me.
For your second cleanse, use your hands or a clean, damp cloth to apply the cleanser of choice and gently remove any further residual makeup and debris. A Q-tip is a handy tool for cleaning around the lashline. Make sure you never ignore your neck or hairline; leaving out these parts can cause bacteria build-up and a break out of acne. (Read also, my guide to the best face washes for acne).