It’s what you’ve got and how you use it! 

The amount of cleanser is often overestimated and we end up spending endless amounts of product and money on our faces. Size really matters in this case,  so depending on the type of cleanser you are using, you will either use the size of number 1 or 2. (see diagram)

Gel and oil cleansers tend to spread more easily so less is best (number 1) and cream cleansers may not have as much slip so you need a little extra product (number 2) .

OK so we know quantity matters in this instance but what about quality how do we determine if a cleanser is a good fit for us?

I’ll break it down into types of cleansers – Waters, Oils, Creams and Gels, what you should be looking for and how they should make your skin feel.

• Waters

Generally used to take off makeup, gently removes excess oil and are great for all skin types especially those with sensitised skin conditions. Waters should feel soft and refreshing on the skin but never tight or taught after using them. Some water formulations can have a slight brightening effect. Waters are best used with de makeup pads (cotton pads) rather then cotton balls as you are able to remove more makeup  with less de makeup  pads.

• Oils

These are my favourite  they can be used on all skin types but its a matter of finding out  which one suits you. An oil cleanser should remove make up and excess oil, make the skin feel soft not greasy  and help  conditions not exacerbate them. Many companies use mineral oil in their oil cleansers, the main reasons for this is that mineral oil has a very similar consistency to the skin’s oil, it’s  affordable  and readily available. In the world of cosmetics there are mixed feeling towards using mineral oil but that’s for another post. My verdict: I generally don’t like mineral oil in my oil cleansers but if the cleanser works for you and you are removing it thoroughly then I say go for it.  A small amount (number 1) should be applied on dry skin and gently massaged into the skin (most of these oils can be used around the eyes but always check the label) once your entire face and neck has been covered use a damp warm cloth to remove the oil.

• Creams

They come in variety of textures,  some will be heavy and creamy while others will have a light  lotion consistency. These are generally great for a normal  to dry skin but  you can still use a light lotion cream cleanser for an acneic skin with dehydration. Cream cleansers leave the skin hydrated, soft , clean and supple. They can be used in a variety of ways but generally apply on slightly damp skin in a soft massaging motion. Remove with water or  a damp warm face cloth.

• Gels 

These can be used on any skin type. Gel formulas normally get associated with an oilier skin type but there have  been such advancements and options for great gel cleansers on the market that there’s no reason why any other skin type can’t use them. Gel cleansers should never feel tight or taught, if so it has removed too much of the skin’s protective oil layer. The skin should feel refreshed and hydrated. If you’re on the drier side look for a jelly based cleanser or a cleanser with aloe vera in it to really hydrate the skin. Gel cleansers are generally applied on damp skin massaged to a foamy consistency and washed off, although some gel cleansers http://www.renskincare.com/p/3702/Rosa+Centifolia%E2%84%A2+Cleansing+Gel  are applied on dry skin, water is then added to emulsify the gel cleanser into  a foamy milk before it is washed off.

Size does matter lets be franc

Remember

• For the face and décolletage the type of cleanser determines the amount of cleanser you use (number 1 or 2)

All cleansers no matter the type should make your skin:

• Feel soft and supple
• Remove all traces of make up
• Never make the skin feel tight and taunt

Love

LetsBeFranc