Cleanser is the cornerstone of every good skincare routine – but how much thought have you put into exactly what cleanser does, the different types that are available, and how to cleanse properly to achieve the best results? Read on to discover all you need to know about cleansers, beginning with the basics – defining what cleanser is.
What is cleanser?
A cleanser is a skincare product used to remove makeup, dirt and impurities from the surface of the skin. There are many different formulations on the market, including oil, balm, foam, gel, cream, lotion and micellar water. Each formulation works in a slightly different way and will be suited to particular skin types.
Micellar water has grown in popularity in recent years, proving a super convenient, on-the-go option for refreshing your skin. Try No7 Cleansing Micellar Water, suitable for all skin types.
Oil-based cleansers, sometimes also called balms, are a gentle, hydrating option, helping to dissolve make-up and lift off impurities with ease. Try No7 Radiant Results Nourishing Micellar Cleansing Oil for silky soft skin.
Foaming cleansers can be a great, balancing option for oily or spot-prone skin. Try No7 Foaming Cleanser, formulated to leave skin looking clear and feeling shine-free.
Lotions and cream cleansers can be a great option for dry or sensitive skin, as they gently cleanse while delivering a nourishing dose of hydration to the skin. Try No7 Hot Cloth Cleanser, which comes with an exfoliating muslin cloth to polish and smooth for a really deep cleanse.
What does cleanser do for your skin?
The short answer? Cleanser washes away dirt and impurities from your skin, which can result in a clearer, healthier, brighter complexion.
Gentle, non-irritating cleansers, such as micellar water and oil-based formulas, are ideal for removing make-up. If you’ve ever struggled to remove waterproof eye makeup or lipstick, you likely didn’t have the right cleanser to hand. Try No7 Cleansing Eye Make-Up Remover, formulated to dissolve even the most stubborn of mascaras and condition as it cleanses.
Cleansers are also essential for keeping your skin healthy and blemish-free. Prevent spots, blackheads or blemishes by removing any pore-clogging build-up from your skin.
Want to ramp up your radiance? Try No7 Radiance+ Daily Energising Exfoliating Cleanser, formulated with natural apricot seeds to refresh, re-energise and gently buff for an instant glow.
Why should you use cleanser?
No matter what we do during the day, dirt, impurities and pollutants pile up on the surface of our skin. If we don’t remove this debris, it can lead to congested pores or breakouts over time. That’s why it’s important to remove every trace of make-up and properly cleanse the skin before your head hits the pillow.
At night, oil, sweat and dead skin cells can build up, meaning that a quick morning cleanse can help to get your day off to the best possible start. If you work out in the morning, cleanse your skin immediately afterwards to remove excess sweat and bacteria.
How is cleanser different to body wash?
Facial cleansers are less likely to strip the skin than those designed for the body, and often include ingredients designed to hydrate or brighten.
How to use cleanser
Step 1: Check the product instructions
All cleansers will have slightly different instructions, so be sure to check the pack first. Pay attention to where to apply it, as some cleansers aren’t suitable for the eye area.
Step 2: Tie or push back hair
Everyone has experienced the frustration of trying to wash your face without ruining a good blow dry – it’s not fun. Keep some spare hair ties and bands in your bathroom to tuck hair neatly out of the way.
Step 3: Wet your face
Using clean hands, splash lukewarm water over the skin. If you prefer to use a flannel or muslin cloth, make sure to use a fresh one every day to avoid transferring old bacteria back onto your skin.
Step 4: Apply your cleanser and massage
Take a small amount of cleanser (around the size of a 50p coin) and apply to the skin, steering clear of the eyes if needed. Massage gently into the skin for 60 seconds.
Step 5: Rinse it off
Using your hands or a flannel, rinse your face with lukewarm water and pat dry with a clean towel.
That’s it – you’re done! Now it’s time to move on to the rest of your skincare routine.
How often should you use cleanser?
For most skin types, a thorough cleanse at the end of the day, along with a quick cleanse first thing in the morning, is ideal. This keeps your face clean and clear without disrupting the natural balance of the skin.
While it may be tempting to cleanse more frequently if you’re prone to acne or blemishes, it’s unlikely to be beneficial for your skin. Overzealous cleansing can result in your skin producing even more oil to compensate – so stick to twice a day, max.
