Are You Cleansing Your Skin Correctly?
Cleansers are often considered a dull step of the skincare routine in comparison to the exciting serums and nourishing moisturisers we apply afterwards to improve our skin. However, cleansing is a vital part of your routine, and rushing it or using the wrong products can mean you’re still left with makeup, dirt and sebum on your face, and your active serums don’t stand a chance in getting absorbed into your skin. Even worse, using the wrong cleansing products could be stripping and irritating your skin and destroying your barrier function.
Choose your cleanser carefully.
Find a cleanser that’s right for your unique skin type, which will work to refresh the skin and balance oil and sebum. You definitely want to avoid surfactant chemical cleansers that leave your skin taught and shiny, as these use harsh ingredients such as Sodium Lauryl Sulfate which strip your skin (not to be confused with Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate – a mild surfactant derived from fatty acids). It’s also best to avoid parabens and phthalates, as these are common in cheap brands and are all known skin microbiome disruptors.
One of the most-loved cleansers is our Nimue Cleansing Gel. This is the first step in the treatment of skin health – Formulated as a soap-free, 2-in-1 creamy gel, perfect for most skin types. With Triple action AHA’s and Vitamin A & E.
Nimue Cleansing Gel Lite is a gentle, soothing, and calming 2-in-1 cleansing gel, containing a Polyhydroxy Acid, Vitamin A & E and a Lacto Complex. A gentler cleansing gel ideal for sensitive and sensitised skins.
Dr K Exfo Cleanser serves as an exfoliation enzyme to remove the outer layer of dead skin cells that can trap both pathogenic bacteria and sebum. The Pomegranate Enzyme contains pomegranate, which is a powerful antioxidant that also brightens the skin. Suitable for all skin types. Use as a cleanser 2x per day and as an exfoliant once or twice a week.
Skincare RX Cleanfix is a cleansing foam with a potent boost of protective and softening ingredients for smoother skin that feels clean, fresh, soft, and supple. It contains Lactic Acid, Vitamin C, E and B5.
SkincareRX Cleansing Scrub for daily cleansing and exfoliating. Ideal for the oilier skin. Contains Lactic Acid, Salicylic Acid, Vitamin C, E and B5.
Skincare RX Enzyme Cleansing Lotion for daily cleansing if you prefer the comfort of a lotion. It is a low foaming lotion cleanser that easily removes dirt and grime, whilst it replenishes the skins natural oils. It feels like a moisturiser. It contains Pineapple and Fermented Papaya Extract
Double cleanse when needed.
Do you ever wash your face at the end of the day for 20 seconds or so, only to pat it dry and still get makeup all over your towel? To effectively remove makeup and dirt from your face you’ll want to make sure you’re cleansing for at least 30 to 60 seconds, adding a bit of water to emulsify, which will mean the active ingredients in your cleanser can do their work. It can be good to do a double cleanse in the evening, especially if you’ve been wearing quite a bit of makeup, to ensure you’re getting rid of all that grime in your pores.
Try Nimue Conditioner
A swipe of Conditioner on gauze will improve the texture and clarity of your skin, accelerate the rejuvenation process and have degreasing and deep cleansing properties whilst having anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory benefits. For the more sensitive or sensitised skins we have Conditioner lite which gently hydrates and protects the skin whilst being soothing and cooling and refreshing.
Watch your water temperature.
Always make sure to use lukewarm water, never hot water (so try to keep your face out of direct shower water flow if you love hot showers!), as this can upset the skin barrier function with inflammation, dryness, and irritation. Cold water might be refreshing, especially in summer, however it won’t soften with your cleanser as easily and removing makeup residue will be more difficult.
Exfoliate, but don’t over-do it.
Exfoliation is a must to remove dead skin cells from the top layer of your skin, as this will help brighten your complexion and allow your skin products to penetrate deeper. However, you’ll want to make sure you’re not over-exfoliating with harsh ingredients, which can remove too much of your protective skin barrier and cause dry skin, redness, irritation, and sensitivity. Less is more – opt for a gentle exfoliator once or twice a week.
Nimue Exfoliating Enzyme gently detaches dead skin cells and promotes cell renewal. It contains papaya and pineapple enzymes, is non-irritating and non-abrasive. It refines the skin texture, optimise the penetration of active ingredients, leaving your skin smooth and radiant.
SkincareRX Cleansing Scrub is a potent boost of protective and exfoliating ingredients for smoother skin that feels clean, fresh, soft, and supple. Recommended for oily skin types daily and all other skin types as a weekly exfoliator.
SkincareRX Enzymefix Skin Renewal Mask is formulated with natural enzymes that eliminate dead skin cells and promote cell renewal for smoother more luminous skin. Recommended for all skin types and particularly sensitive skins. To be used once a week.
Dr K Exfo Cleanser can be used as an exfoliant as well.
Dp Dermaceuticals Micro Derm Exfoliant buffs away dirt, make-up and impurities with fine bamboo powder and nourishes with shea and mango butters.
Pop in to see one of your Therapist to discuss which of the above cleansers and exfoliants is best for your skin type and lifestyle.
