How does a cleanser cleanse?

Best way to cleanse?

My opinion on this has changed over the years. I'll admit I got swept up in the double cleanse fad. It made sense; get rid of the grime first and then cleanse the skin with another product but what if you had a cleanser that did all? A second cleanse with another product isn't a necessity. In fact, it can disrupt the skin barrier if the products are too harsh, causing irritation and dryness. If you ever have that tight feel after cleaning you skin, you'll know what I mean!

Read more on double cleansing here

How do cleansers work?

The presence of surfactants are the cleansing agents in skincare products. These come in a wide variety of different types. They work by forming units called micelles on the skin which traps dirt, sweat and sebum, allowing them to be washed away.

One of the most important qualities of a good cleanser is the pH. The skin's acid mantle is most effective at pH around 4.5 to 5.5 (slightly acidic). This ensures the optimum conditions for the skin's barrier function ie. to retain moisture within the skin and keep pollutants out. If the cleanser is too alkaline it can cause dryness and impair the skin's ability to protect. Thankfully, nowadays most cleansers are manufactured to the correct pH and much superior to soap bars which were notorious for this effect on the skin.

Modern cleansers also often contain other components for better cleansing experiences, sometimes to include exfoliants and moisturisers. Some even contain vitamins, however, I would question how good they would be in a cleanser which has a relatively short contact time with the face, in comparison to a serum or moisturiser!

I think when it comes to cleansing, listen to your skin!

My top cleansing tips

• Choose a cleanser you enjoy using. Are you a foam fan or better with a balm?

• Cleanse your way once a day/twice a day/double cleanse (delete as appropriate)

• You don't need to spend lots of money on a cleanser, unless you adore one and it's within your budget, then go for it! If you think about it, most of it goes down the sink!

• Invest in washable soft cloths or flannels rather than cotton pads or face wipes. Better for your skin and the environment.

• You don't have to follow trends with cleansing. What suits a friend or influencer may not suit you.

Some of my favourite cleansers

                                             The Inkey List Oat Cleansing Balm 150ml £12.00

                                            Melts away makeup and SPF. Perfect for a first cleanse.

                                        The Ordinary Squalane Cleanser 150ml £14.90

                                   Cleanses and hydrates the skin to support your skin's barrier.

                                        Skin Formulas Daily Foaming Cleanser 100ml £32.00

                                    Contains AHAs to make skin smoother and more radiant.

Remember, when it comes to skincare, you do you always!

Michelle (Skin Health Pharmacist)

Find me on Instagram 💕

 This post contains some affiliate links – if you decide to click through and make a purchase (at no extra cost to you), I may receive commission. Thank you for your support.