Mastering Your Cleanse Game
Of all elements in your skincare routine, cleansing is surprisingly one of the most critical steps necessary for achieving healthier skin. It’s important to remember that thorough cleansing is not only crucial for preventing breakouts and dullness, it is an important “anti-aging” step also, because products and pollution left on the skin degrade over time and ultimately their oxidation leads to destructive and extrinsically aging free radicals. To effectively remove make-up, harmful bacteria, oil, pollution, and cellular debris from the day, taking time with your cleansing process and utilizing the following tips will ensure you’re on your way to clearer skin with enhanced capacity for absorbing subsequently applied products.
Cleansing Best Practices
Double cleanse at night
first with a gentle oil, milk, or cream cleanser to breakdown and begin the removal of makeup, oil, and SPF
follow with a second cleanse with an active cleanser of your choice, chosen for it’s ability to work deeper within the pores and breakdown the cellular glue that can clog pores
Cleanse purposefully for 1-2 minutes with your whole hand to work the product over your face, neck, and décolleté, paying attention to the hairline and corners of the nose
Choose non-stripping and non-drying cleansers to preserve the integrity of the skin’s acid mantle; avoid seeking the “squeaky clean” finish
Keep a bottle of micellar water on hand to remove any excess product, add a layer of hydration, or when you only need a mild cleanse to refresh the complexion. A quick swipe with a cotton pad soaked with micellar water can easily be coupled for more thorough makeup removal, first and second cleanses, or a cleanse on-the-go.
Invest in several different types of cleansers to accomplish your daily cleansing needs with flexibility
In addition to the double cleanse product types recommended above, consider using an enzyme-based cleanser (such as iS Clinical Warming Honey Cleanser) in a triple cleanse process once or twice a week
A gentle physical exfoliant cleanser (such as iS Clinical Cleansing Complex Polish) can provide additional exfoliation for those seeking a smoother and refreshed complexion. This light, foamy gel contains eco-friendly microparticles of Cellulose and Jojoba combined with powerful botanical extracts to provide both physical and biochemical exfoliation. A complete facial experience in a single product, this multi-purpose cleansing scrub instantly smooths, polishes, and softens the skin.
For your morning refresh, choose between the following options depending on your skin’s needs: splash with water only; refresh and hydrate with micellar water; wash with a gentle enzyme cleanser or polishing cleanser; or use a quick enzyme mask for a hydrated and refreshed glow.
Not sure where to start with building your ideal at-home cleansing routine? I recommend iS Clinical’s Cleansing Complex to all clients looking to invest in only one product that can set them on their way to healthier skin. This clear, lightweight cleansing gel is powerful, yet gentle enough for sensitive skin. Cleansing Complex incorporates a balance of bionutrients, antioxidants, and mild resurfacing ingredients that thoroughly cleanse the surface and pores of the skin without stripping essential natural oils, leaving skin soft and smooth. Cleansing Complex is very effective for removing makeup and is an excellent cleansing option for all skin types and all ages, even helps with blemish-prone skin.