Let's start at the very beginning...
- Emma
- Jan 13, 2016
- 3 min read
Technically not the very beginning, but a good skin care routine always includes cleansing, so let's dive right in. I'm going to start with a few frequently asked questions before jumping into my current favorite cleansers.
Should I change my cleanser with the change of season?
Depends a little bit on skin type. Some people, especially our combination skin friends, swing to the oily side in the summer and can get slightly dry/dehydrated in the winter. If that's you I might recommend a gel-based cleanser for the summer and a creamier cleanser in the winter. However there are some awesome cleansers out there that are great year-round. I'm personally an advocate of a separate makeup removal step (which will be another post entirely, I'm sure), so I view cleansing as a "protection" step. Meaning I don't rely on my cleanser to remove all of my dirt and oil and makeup, nor do I rely on it alone to treat my skin. Because of this I have generally found that I'm ok using the same cleanser year-round.
How much do I need to spend on a good cleanser?
We all know that you can find $5 skin care at your local drug store or $60 products at a department store or salon. But does the price point make a difference? Maybe. If ingredients are important to you then you are probably going to have to dole out a bit more. If they aren't then yeah, maybe you can stick to your drug store cleanser. I personally prefer to spend more on a serum because I know that those ingredients are more potent and active and are staying on my skin longer than a cleanser is.
How often should I cleanse my face?
Once or twice a day. If you are wearing makeup PLEASE wash your face at night. And always after a good workout.
How do I know if my cleanser is working or not?
A good rule of thumb for all skin care is to give the product at least four weeks, if not longer, before making up your mind. Unless you have an allergic reaction or feel burning, stinging or any other owie feelings. Breakouts are tougher to figure out. Sometimes our skin purges when we use a new product. And sometimes we break out hormonally. Both of these situations can make it tough to tell if a breakout is caused by a product or not. Which is why we sometimes need to go through those four weeks to see what's really going on. Super helpful, right?
Now on to my current faves! All four of these cleansers are great, basic cleansers that are perfect for all skin types. Watch for another post in the future about cleansers that help to meet more specific needs.
1. Dr. Hauschka Cleansing Cream. $29. The Dr. Hauschka Cleansing Cream is slightly exfoliating but gentle and hydrating enough for all skin conditions.
2. One Love Organics' Easy Does It. $29. Easy Does It from One Love Organics is a great foaming face wash for the person who loves that really clean feeling but doesn't want to over-dry their skin.
3. Eminence Organic's Stone Crop Gel Wash. Prices vary. Stone crop is a succulent with amazing healing properties, making this cleanser a great option for everyone from sensitive skin to breakout-prone.
4. S.W. Basics' Cleanser. $22. You can't get more simple than three ingredients. Apply this with a cotton round and watch the day come right off. Another great option for sensitive skin.
Quick disclaimer: the spa that I work for carries Eminence products but I was in no way compensated for including them in this post.
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