During this time of isolation we need to be positive in the way that we look after our mental and physical health. One way of doing this is to maintain structure in our lives by having a routine in the way we look after ourselves with our diet and with exercise.
A daily cleansing routine is a vital step to keep your skin healthy and prevent disease. Your skin is the body’s largest organ, it works as a barrier to protect your body from the outside world. During our normal day to day lives we come into contact with chemicals, pollution and sun/light damage.
Cleansing your skin morning and night will remove all these chemicals, grime and bacteria. This helps to improve the barrier function of your skin which will result in radiant, glowing skin. It is important to use the correct active ingredients to ensure you lift these impurities and oils, gently exfoliating dead skin cells and balancing the PH of your skin.
Face Wipes
Are always a no no, that is unless you are using them as a last resort for example when there is no access to water. This is because they are usually packed with alcohol, synthetics and fragrance, which will irritate your skin and they tend to smear dirt and make up across the skin surface rather than removing it.
Bars of Soap
These can often be harsh for delicate facial skin and interfere with normal skin function. They strip the fats and lipids from the upper layer of your skin, affecting the skin’s barrier function. If we lose this barrier we lose water leading to dry and flakey skin.
Micellar Waters
Micellar waters work by using small balls of cleansing oil molecules which draw out skin impurities. They are very useful when water is not available and as a primary cleanser to remove makeup.
My top recommendation for micellar water is RE9 Advanced Prepwork by Arbonne.
Cleansing Creams
Work by dissolving oil and dirt. They can be moisturising, soap free, non irritating, soothing and calming. Which is the ideal cleanser for someone with dry, dehydrated, or sensitive skin.
My top recommendation for a cream cleanser is SkinCeuticals Gentle cleanser.
Cleansing gels
Ideal for skin prone to blemishes and ageing. It is important to ensure they contain the correct active agents such as Salicylic acid and Glycolic acid.
Salicylic acid is good for controlling oil production, anti inflammatory, antibacterial and refines pores.
Glycolic acid works by sloughing away dead skin cells to improve complexion and reduces signs of ageing.
My top recommendations – SkinCeuticals are Blemish and Age Cleansing Gel or Cosmed Deep Cleansing Gel.
Toners
Toners are used to cleanse with a cotton pad rather than using water. Toners are used to clean the skin and help reduce pore size. They are used after cleansing rather than on there own. Perfect to use as part of a double cleansing routine. Try to avoid toners containing alcohol as they can cause dryness and irritation.
My Top recommendations – Skin Ceuticals Equalizing toner. This toner is fragrance free and alcohol free. It balances, refreshes and helps to restore the skins protective PH mantle while removing residue.
All the above products can be purchased through LM Facial Aesthetics. An additional 10% can be added to your order when quoting this blog
