In the vast and often confusing realm of skincare, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. When I first ventured into this world, I was bombarded with questions—what do I need immediately? What can wait? Where should I invest, and where can I cut costs? And most importantly, in what order should I apply these products? It was a lot to process.
However, after diving deep into skincare, I can confidently guide you on how to start, even if you’re lucky enough to have clear skin and don’t think you need a serum. The foundation for great skin begins with cleansing. While most people wash their faces daily, many skip the crucial step of double cleansing.
What is Double Cleansing?
Double cleansing involves two stages: first, removing makeup, sunscreen, and any grime accumulated throughout the day. This can be done using a variety of products, from budget-friendly options to luxurious ones, oils to balms. If you’re wearing heavy eye makeup or waterproof mascara, an eye makeup remover should be your first step.
Start by applying a cleansing oil or balm to dry skin, ensuring you cover every nook and cranny. Then, use a warm (not hot!) washcloth to wipe away the product. Wring it out and repeat until all residue is gone. This initial cleanse sets the stage for your skin to be truly clean.
It’s important to note that this process should be done at the sink rather than in the shower; hot water can harm your facial skin. I know it might seem inconvenient, especially if you’re accustomed to showering while washing your face, but trust me, it’s worth it.
Recommended Balm Cleansers
- Botanics Organic Hot Cloth Cleansing Balm—an excellent value!
- Clinique Take The Day Off
- Farmacy Green Clean Cleansing Balm
- Emma Hardie Moringa Cleansing Balm—a luxurious treat.
Once you’ve effectively removed the makeup, your skin is ready for the actual cleansing stage. This is where gel, milk, or lotion cleansers come into play. Apply your chosen cleanser to damp skin, then remove it with your warm washcloth, ensuring thorough cleansing.
Be cautious with foaming cleansers; they often contain sodium lauryl sulfate, which can strip your skin of its protective barrier. Additionally, you might want to steer clear of mineral oil, as it can create a barrier that hinders absorption of subsequent products.
Top Picks for Cleansers
- La Roche-Posay Hydrating Gentle Cleanser—an absolute steal!
- Pixi Caroline Hirons Double Cleanse—combines a balm and traditional cleanser.
- Andalou Naturals Cleansing Milk
- Clarins Cleansing Milk with Alpine Herbs.
While this may seem like a lot of information, the actual time spent is minimal—approximately two minutes. Remove makeup, cleanse your skin, and you’re done.
Skincare expert Anna Bell emphasizes the importance of this routine: it’s the essential first step before delving into serums, acids, or advanced moisturizers. If you commit to this two-minute ritual (and always apply sunscreen), you can significantly enhance your skin’s health.
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In summary, a simple two-minute double cleansing routine can make a world of difference for your skin. Prioritize this step to lay a solid foundation for your skincare regimen.