Optimal skin care starts with proper cleansing. Why is cleansing the skin so important and what types of cleansers are there? You can read about it in this article.
What is a cleanser?
A cleanser is a product that removes dirt and excess sebum from the skin. This allows the skin to better absorb the active ingredients of the products you apply next.
Why should you use a cleanser?
A cleanse allows skin care products to be better absorbed by the skin. If there is excess grease and dirt on the skin, it forms a layer between the skin and the product. As a result, valuable active ingredients from creams, serums and masks cannot be absorbed by the skin. This is a waste of your valuable products. We always compare this to a car. You don't wax a car before you wash it, do you?
How often can you cleanse your skin?
It is best to cleanse your skin a maximum of once or twice a day. For blemished/oily skin and if you wear make-up, it is important to cleanse the skin twice a day. Do you have dry and/or sensitive skin or rosacea? Then we recommend cleansing your skin a maximum of once a day. Preferably in the evening.
What happens if you cleanse the skin too often?
When you cleanse your skin too often, you dry it out. The skin's natural protective layer is damaged and the pH value of the acid mantle is disturbed. The acid mantle maintains an optimal balance on the skin to keep out harmful substances and micro-organisms. The longer the skin is unprotected, the greater the risk of skin irritations.
Types of cleansers
There are many variants for cleansers on the market: cleansing wipes, face wash, cleansing milk, hydrophilic oil, balms and foam/foam. Be critical when choosing a good cleanser. After all, this is one of your body's most important organs. You should treat these with care. That is why it is important to damage your skin's protective layer as little as possible. Impure and/or oily skin needs a different cleanser than dry skin. We do not recommend using ready-made cleansing wipes. These often contain alcohol and perfume, and you literally polish the skin's protective layer by rubbing the face.
Which cleanser suits your skin best?
We recommend different cleansing products depending on your needs and skin condition. For oily skin, use a cleanser with anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. Make sure this product does not contain alcohol (alcohol denat. or ethanol), as this has a drying effect. For dry skin, use a hyrdophilic oil or balm. The oils are water-soluble and only absorb dirt from the skin without affecting the protective layer. Dry skin remains supple and gains better resistance thanks to oil's soothing properties. For normal skin, you can choose from a hyrdophilic oil, cleansing milk or a foam/foam. Make sure these do not contain perfume and are alcohol-free.
What should you think about when buying a cleanser?
Choose a cleanser without perfume (a vegetable perfume is allowed) or alcohol. Get advice from a skin specialist. It is a waste to invest in a cleanser that affects the skin's protective layer and dries it out.
Advantages of a good cleanser
- You start your day fresh and wake up more easily.
- All your skin products are better absorbed and give optimal results.
- Skin gets a fresh complexion.
- Prevents clogged pores, blackheads and gristle.
Disadvantages
- None!
Our tips
- Use lukewarm water while cleansing. If you don't feel the difference in temperature on your skin, it's perfect!
- Use your hands to massage the cleanser in instead of cotton pads or flannels, this stimulates circulation.
- Rinse your skin thoroughly with lukewarm water.
- Pat your skin dry instead of wiping it dry to keep the acid mantle intact. Preferably use a microfibre towel, as it is extra gentle on the skin.
If you have any questions about cleansing your skin, we will be happy to answer them! Ask your question below in the comments section.