10 Reasons to Cleanse

I am often asked about skincare routines and the best way to look after skin. We all know that everyone is unique and there are many different skin types. Treatment can affect everyone differently – rejoice if your skin has benefitted from chemo (it is not unheard of). Despite this individual variation, my advice remains broadly the same – cleanse, tone, treat and Moisturise. I meet lots of ladies and on the whole, find that cleansing is the most often ignored part of a routine, if there is one. There is no judgement here; you have more on your minds than looking after your skin. If you ‘do’ skincare the cleanse, tone, treat and Moisturise can be one of the highlights of the day. As cleansing is ignored – here are 10 reasons to cleanse

1. Your skin excretes oils and gathers dirt from the day
2. A buildup of oil and dirt can block pores
3. Blocked pores can result in spots and breakouts
4. A cleansing balm can moisturise as well as cleanse so there’s often no need for an additional products
5. Your skin is an organ of detoxification –wipe away the toxins that your skin is working hard to get rid of
6. Massage can brighten the face and reduce signs of aging (have you tried the fabulous anti-aging facial massages?). Using a cleanser can be like a mini-massage for the face
7. Cleansers have some wonderful ingredients, Our cleansers contain the oils that are beneficial for your skin
8. Cleansing is so important that good salon facials include a double cleanse –that’s right – two applications of cleanser
9. Make-up removal is critical. Cosmetics glue themselves to your skin –you want it to have staying power. That’s fine for during the day but your skin will look better if it has some time without make-up and cleansing is the way to remove it
10. Cleansers moisturise the skin in way no facial wash can

Are you convinced yet? If not, why not??!! Your choice of cleanser should be as carefully considered as your choice of night cream and serum. Not all cleansers are the same. Many of the detergent based cleansers (facial washes and foams) are harsh and can dry the skin. We always advise against their use and suggest you opt for a gentle balm. Those with oily skin often feel that a cleansing balm will add to their problems but, often, the opposite is true. We have had some excellent feedback about the Defiant Beauty Cleanse & Moisturise. This balm was specifically created those going through treatment for cancer. Chemo skin is often dry and sore but breakouts are not uncommon. The balm can clear breakouts as it balances and calms oil secretion. Often the over production of oil has been caused by harsh drying. All that is needed to address the problem is a balm. Those of you who know me know that I am evangelical about Cleanse & Moisturise, if you want only one product – make it a cleansing balm. By Jennifer Young