A facial cleanser should be the first step in every homecare regime. The right skin preparation is key, so don’t underestimate using a cleanser that contains the right active ingredients.
The correct cleanser will remove dirt, oil, dead skin cells and other unwanted debris that has accumulated on your skin during the day. Choosing the correct cleanser will effectively prime your skin, allowing other products in your routine to absorb deeper into the skin layers, maximising your results and keeping that radiant glow we all long for.
When selecting a facial cleanser, it is important to ensure that the key active ingredients is suited to your specific skin type. If you happen to pick the wrong product this could result in stripping the skin from its natural oils, causing further skin problems such as dryness, breakouts, sensitivity and redness.
Sensitive Skin
It can be very hard to find a cleanser that does not irritate sensitive skin. Cleanser formulations often contain certain surfactants that may threaten the integrity of the skin and worsen sensitivity. It is best to look for a cleanser that is lightweight and free from skin irritants, such as alcohol, soaps, synthetic fragrances and dyes.
LM Facial Aesthetics’ top recommendation for sensitive skin is Cosmed Cleansing Milk. This product contains shea butter and ribes nigrum (blackcurrant). Shea butter has a soothing action, which will help to calm sensitive skin and reduce redness. Ribes nigrum restores skin balance and helps to soothe irritated skin, whilst protecting the skin during cleansing. This combination of ingredients will nourish and hydrate the skin.
Dry Skin
Dry skin can be caused by a variety of factors including lipid depletion, dry air, harsh soaps and in-clinic procedures. Most traditional surfactants found in facial cleansers will increase dryness. It is important to ensure that you use a cleanser that is alcohol/soap free. Cream or lotion cleansers are more suitable for dry skin. Look out for hydrating ingredients such as allantoin, glycerin and sorbitol which will help increase water content in the skin and encourage a healthy skin barrier.
LM Facial Aesthetics’ top recommendation for dry skin is SkinCeuticals Gentle Cleanser. This product is a cream based cleanser which is non foaming, that will remove impurities and long wear make-up, while effectively moisturising and softening the skin.
Oily Skin
Oily skin types often have visible pores, shiny or thick skin and a predisposition to blackheads and other blemishes. Many traditional oil-fighting ingredients tend to dry out the skin causing the skin to over produce oil, leading to clogged pores and further breakouts. It is best to choose a cleanser that is oil free, containing acids such as glycolic, salicylic and sulfonic acid to deliver target exfoliation. These key ingredients will also encourage cell turnover which will help prevent clogged pores and blemishes from forming.
LM Facial Aesthetics’ top recommendation for oily skin is Blemish + AGE Cleansing gel by SkinCeuticals. This cleanser contains salicylic acid and glycolic acid. These key active ingredients will remove impurities and excess oils.
Normal Skin
Normal skin, on the whole has very few problems, it is not too oily and not too dry. However, in some people they may experience an oilier T-zone affecting the forehead, nose and chin. This skin type is lucky and can have a pick of cleansers, but it is still key to look for active ingredients that will wash away impurities and remove any dead skin cells. As we age our skin cycle slows down and our cell turnover decreases, so we need to ensure this cycle stays effective by using active ingredients.
LM Facial Aesthetics’ top all-rounder cleanser is Cosmed Deep Cleansing gel. It contains salicylic acid, glycolic acid, lactic acid, vitamin c, retinol and hyaluronic acid – The perfect combination for your beauty regime.
All of the cleansers mentioned above can be purchased through LM Facial Aesthetics. Receive 10% off RRP today if you quote this blog.
