Cleansing is the “be-all and end-all” of the skin care program. It is the foundation of all the goodness that the skin will be receiving through its care program. Uncleansed skin harbours toxins; bad bacteria; waste matter and pollutants.
When the skin is cleansed properly, it is more able to absorb the beneficial ingredients required, in order to get the best results.
I always recommend double cleansing – ideally both am and pm. If you think of cleansing as a similar experience to taking a shower – you would always before taking the shower, so you can get clean. Same thing with the skin. The first cleanse, aka makeup removal or PreCleanse, is vital for your skin’s health.
In the category of first cleansers / Pre-Cleansers, you will find Milk, Oil and also Balm Cleansers.
The first cleanse is designed to remove so much more than just makeup. In fact, even if we are not wearing makeup, it is essential. It also removes oil-soluble waste; skin secretions; sunscreen and stale makeup.
The second cleanse is often referred to as the “Treatment” cleanse. It is where we choose a custom-fit cleanser to really address our individual needs and preferences. This is usually where foaming; gel or mousse cleansers are found. In our case, we also have Clay cleansers that deeply cleanse and purify the skin.
HOW-TO:
When performing your first cleanse (the PreCleansing stage) – I always apply the product on dry hands to dry face. Massage all over, including the eyes and lips. No need for cotton pads. Use your hands. After a minute or so – add water. This emulsifies the Balm to Oil and then Milk… The Oil-based cleanser also emulsifies into a milk-like consistency… whilst your Cream or Milk cleansers begin to dissolve and break down, ready to be lifted. Follow with plenty of tepid water, and rinse off. Voilà! The skin is now ready for the next cleanse.
PRODUCTS TO CHOOSE FROM:
PreCleanse; PreCleanse Balm and Gentle Cleanser.
For the second cleanse – ensure that the face is thoroughly water-moistened. Take a small amount of cleanser, lather it between the palms, and apply to wet skin. If it is a gel or foaming cleanser being used – less is definitely more. Always really lather it up, almost creating a “cappuccino” foam and apply to the skin. This will ensure a perfect cleanse, that is both economical and easy to remove, and therefore will not disrupt the skin.
PRODUCTS TO CHOOSE FROM:
Simply Clean; Soothing Cleanser Foam; Clarifying Exfoliating Cleanser; Intensive Moisture Cleanser; UltraCalming™ Cleanser; Special Cleansing Gel; Active Clay Cleanser; Skin Resurfacing Cleanser and Breakout Clearing Foaming Wash and Clearing Skin Wash.
PRO TIP: Avoid the use of face cloths and “washers”; brushes and machinery. They can be too intense for most skin types. Instead, I prefer to use my hands. They are intuitive. They know the contours of my face. They can feel for any texture and changes in the skin. They are the perfect cleansing material… hence why I spend forty-five minutes in cleansing in my facials! It is a powerful session of lifting; sculpting; lymphatic drainage and incredible radiance for the skin.