Skincare is V’s and mine absolute favorite thing. We indulge in whole lot of DIYs and love experimenting with different ingredients. While we have our inclination towards natural products, we do love store bought products as well. CTM (Cleansing, toning, moisturizing) is the very basic routine that everyone must follow to maintain a healthy and glowing skin. We detailed toners in our earlier post where we discussed why we should use toners and which ones to pick. If you haven’t checked that post, here is the link – Face Toner – why and how?.
As part of this post, we will discuss all about cleansers. There is nothing new or special in knowing that everyone needs a cleanser as part of daily skincare routine. It is an absolute must have and the most basic part of our skin regime. Cleanser is basically meant to cleanse our skin to get rid of pollution, dust, oil or any kind of germs sitting right on top.
Why use a cleanser daily?
If there is one thing you have to choose to do for your skin, it has to be daily CTM. It is a 3 step process which helps you maintain the natural health of your skin. The first part of this routine, cleansing is probably the most important of all three. Using a cleanser that suits your skin type and targets few of your skin concerns ensures a clean and glowing skin. Cleansers, apart from cleansing, provide a boost of hydration to the skin, reduces re-occurrence of acne and cleans pores.
Without cleansing, the skin will end up with clogged pores, dehydration, dirt build up, acne which over a period of time make it look aged and sensitive.
When to use a cleanser?
Cleansers can be used anytime of the day whenever you feel like washing your face. Although, it should be used at least twice daily, morning and night to make sure you start your day with a cleansed face and you sleep with a cleansed face. It is to be noted that cleansing multiple times a day may be drying for the face.
How to use a cleanser?
Take a small amount on your palm, massage thoroughly all over your wet face and rinse of with plain water.
How to pick a cleanser?
We have a very basic DIY cleanser that will suit most skin types. All you need is
- 1 tsp honey
- 1/2 tsp lemon juice
- a pinch of cinnamon
Simply mix these thoroughly and massage on face for a minute and wash off. You can make it in advance and store in refrigerator for 3-4 days. You can also add 1/2 tsp of brown sugar to add exfoliating effect to this natural cleanser.
Also read Indulge in Night Masks
Now, there are zillion cleansers available in the market to choose from. To know the one that will suit you the most you need to know your skin.
- Skin type – Dry/Oily/Combination/Sensitive
- Skin Concerns – Acne/Open Pores/Pigmentation
The first consideration should be to pick a cleanser with your skin type and then choose a skin concern that can be included with a cleanser of your skin type.
For Dry skin, cream based cleansers work like a charm. These are packed with intense moisturizing ingredients. Look for the keywords like hydrating, moisturizing on the product.
BN recommends
For Oily skin, gel based cleansers suit well. They provide good cleansing and do not contain lot of oil or moisture. Look for the key words balancing, oil free on the product.
BN recommends
For Combination skin, both cream based and gel based can be used. Cream based which are marketed to provide intense hydration should be avoided. Go for basic hydration and balancing and there you have it.
BN recommends
For Sensitive skin, look for key words gentle, mild, fragrance free. This is the most delicate skin type so the ingredients should be at the minimum with no extra fragrance or colors added.
BN recommends
Also read Lip Scrub: Do’s, Dont’s and DIY!
So, cleanse your way to a beautiful skin!
A | XOXO
