Skin Care Basics: Cleansing For Your Skin Type

Cleansing your skin is an essential first step to any proper skincare routine. A thorough cleanse is needed to remove surface debris and makeup to get your skin hydrated and clean. Choosing the right cleanser that is suitable for your skin type will ensure your skincare regimen is effective.
Opt for a cleanser that is free from harmful preservatives, irritants, and added fragrance- one that will not over-dry your skin or leave it feeling oily or sticky.

Pick the Right Cleanser for your Skin Type

To maintain healthy, balanced skin, we want to use a cleanser that is formulated for our skin type and concerns. There are few core types of cleansers with different ingredients and formulations that target various concerns. Understand your skin type and pay close attention to how your skin feels after you cleanse.

If your skin feels dry or tight after you cleanse, the cleanser you are using may be too drying for your skin. You may need to switch to a more gentle or moisturizing cleanser like a gel or cream.

If your skin feels greasy or sticky post cleanse, try switching to a water based formula like a gel cleanser.

TYPES OF CLEANSERS

1. Foaming Cleanser

A foaming cleanser provides a deeper clean by softening the skin and clearing out excess dirt and oil. Foaming cleansers remove most makeup and are very effective at leaving your skin feeling squeaky clean. Foaming cleansers are not recommended for normal, dry, or sensitive skin types because the lathering agents in the cleanser can cause your skin to become too dry.

TO USE: apply with wet fingertips and massage into skin in circular motions, cleanse for 1 minute, rinse with tepid water.

SKIN TYPES: Acne, oily, combination skin.

2. Oil-Based Cleanser

Oil-based cleansers are excellent at removing heavy makeup and surface debris. The oil binds to the dirt and lifts it right off your skin, giving it an efficient clean. Oil cleansers are very gentle on the skin and help balance the PH, leaving it soft and supple. 

TO USE: apply dry and massage into the skin , wet fingertips and continue to massage for 1 minute, remove with a soft cloth, then follow with facial cleanser. Applying the cleanser dry allows the oils to adhere to the makeup, making it easier to remove.

PRO TIP: try using a luxurious, skin nourishing oil like Neroli Oil.

SKIN TYPES: all skin types can benefit from oil cleansers

3. Cream Cleanser

Cream cleansers provide a gentle way to cleanse your skin by replenishing moisture in the skin without drying or irritation.  The added moisture makes cream cleansers ideal for dry or sensitive skin types. These cleansers are effective at removing most makeup ( as long as it's not waterproof) and can be used for all skin types.

TO USE: massage into skin for 30 seconds, wet fingertips and continue to work into skin to remove makeup and grime, rinse with tepid water.

PRO TIP: combine a cream cleanser with a facial scrub to remove surface skin while replenishing moisture.

SKIN TYPES: normal, dry, sensitive, irritated, dehydrated

4. Gel Cleanser

Gel cleansers typically provide lightweight hydration and a purifying cleanse. Gel cleansers can remove light-makeup and leave your skin feeling refreshed without stripping necessary oils. Gel cleansers are recommended during warmer, humid months as sebum production ramps up. Certain formulations of gel cleansers may be too drying for dry skin types, so be sure to check ingredients.

SKIN TYPES: normal, combination, oily, sensitive, acne

Homemade Masks

Homemade face masks are trending on the internet now days. There are so many yummy recipes out there and the best part is, you have full control of the ingredients that are going on your skin.

If you are looking for a fun time with friends or family, go crazy and mask away. But, if you have any type of skin condition you are trying to treat, the homemade mask doesn’t have the active ingredients to make any real change in the skin.

For a hydrating mask that doubles down as a delicious snack, try whipping up fresh avocado and local honey.

Tips For Using A Facial Mask At Home

• Know Your Type- If you want to pick the right mask that will provide the most benefit, make sure you know and understand your skin type. If you are unsure, see an esthetician for a skin analysis. Select the mask that is formulated for your skin type and be sure to check ingredients.

• Cleanse- Wash your face with the appropriate cleanser and pat dry. Properly cleansing your skin is important if you want to get the full benefit of your mask.

• Exfoliate- By removing the outer layer of dead skin cells, your skin is better able to absorb all the nutrients and active ingredients your mask has to offer. For optimal skin-health, it is recommended that you exfoliate 1-2 times per week.

• Serum- For pro-like results, layer your favorite serum underneath the mask (thinnest to thickest). The mask will help drive the serum deeper into the skin, boosting your treatment and results.

• Patch test- Always patch test the mask or any skincare product for that matter. Apply the product on the side of your neck or wrist by following the instructions. Keep an eye out for redness, irritation, or rashes . If the skin has remained normal for 24-48 hours, you should be okay to use it on your face. It’s better to know if your skin will become reactive to the product prior to slathering on your entire face.

• Moisturize- As with any skincare routine, finish with the appropriate moisturizer after the mask is removed. Using a serum prior to the moisturizer is ideal for ultimate results.

Step Up Your Skincare With A Masks

Most facial masks can be used up to 2-3 times per week ( check instructions). When used regularly and with the right products, they can really improve the health of your skin.

With the advancements in science and quality of active ingredients available, it’s no wonder facial masks have become such an essential staple in any effective skincare routine.

Whether you are using professionally formulated masks or creating one at home, masking can become a fun and exciting way to care for your skin.

If you are looking to step-up your skincare game, consider adding a facial mask to your routine. Just be sure it’s the right mask that is formulated for your skin type and condition.

Professional-grade skincare masks are best if you are seeking results, speak to an esthetician to see which mask is best for you.