Are You Cleansing Your Skin Wrong?

Although it might not feel like the sexiest part of your skincare regime, choosing the right cleanser can actually make all the difference to your skin, doubly so if you’re someone who works out regularly. As well as maintaining and supporting its integral health, cleansers are also the backbone of the rest of your routine; after all anything that you put on your skin after you cleanse is money down the drain if your complexion isn’t clean and receptive enough to begin with. When it comes to maximising the efficacy of your cleanser, it’s important to choose the right kind for your skin type and concerns; if your skin is on the dry side then you’ll need something containing plenty of moisture-locking ceramides, whereas if you need a cleanser that can cope with the blood, sweat and tears of your daily workout, you’ll need something more clarifying. Read on to discover how to pick the right one for you…

Dry Skin

You’ll know if you have dry skin if it often feels tight after you remove your makeup or first thing in the morning. To combat this, make sure you aren’t opting for a cleanser that’s stripping essential moisture; instead choose one that contains hydrators and humectants like hyaluronic acid and glycerine, as well as ceramides which will help to restore a compromised skin barrier and leave skin feeling clean but supple and replenished too. If you’re already a fan of buttery balms and oils, then you’re in luck; rich textures such as these will really help cosset dry skin and give it the nourishment and comfort it needs.

Sensitive Skin

You have sensitive skin if you’re constantly battling patches of redness, flakiness or irritation. You may find yourself more reactive after using products containing certain strong actives and your skin may often feel hot to the touch. The key with choosing a cleanser for sensitive skin is to opt for something that’s free from added fragrance or alcohol which can make things worse. It’s also wise to avoid exfoliating cleansers or those with high percentages of active ingredients like glycolic acid, as they can irritate skin that’s already feeling sore. Instead, choose something soothing and with plenty of moisturising and anti-inflammatory ingredients that will focus on adding hydration while it cleanses. Working up a sweat during exercise can often make skin feel more sensitive too, so always make sure you use gentle formulas that don’t include drying, stripping ingredients like sodium lauryl or laureth sulfate.

Oily Skin

If your skin is oily, prone to shine and peppered with frequent breakouts and clogged pores, you need a cleanser that can tackle that whilst still giving you beautifully clean and balanced skin. Working out can often mean more dirt, oil and grime clings to your skin than usual especially if you’ve been working out outdoors or have been swimming; look out on your labels for cleansers containing salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide which will help control oil and fight blemishes before they show. They’ll also help to de-clog pores which can exacerbate the issue and lead to more blemishes if not treated. Foaming or gel cleansers are both good choices as they’ll feel refreshing and purifying on the skin.