What is a skincare routine? Step 1 Cleansing

Our consultants are often asked about skincare routines and the best way for clients to look after their skin. We all know that everyone is unique and there are many different skin types. Despite this individual variation, our advice remains broadly the same – cleanse, tone, treat and moisturise. The Beauty Despite Cancer team meet lots of ladies and on the whole, we find that cleansing is the most often ignored part of a routine, if there is one. There is no judgement here, but the number of folks that don’t have a skincare routine amazes us. We all ‘do’ skincare and so for us, the cleanse, tone, treat and moisturise is one of the highlights of the day – sad but true. 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 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 or cleansing lotion, such as the Defiant Beauty Cleansing 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 Improve and Remove cleansing balm. This balm was specifically created for teenagers with spots and acne (their mums come to Jennifer Young events to create bespoke products but the teenagers don’t want to, we created an off the shelf range for their mums to take home to them). The balm alone has been known to clear the acne as it balances and calms oil secretion. Often the over production of oil has been caused by harsh drying products. All that is needed to address the problem is a balm. Our team of consultants can also help you to create a bespoke cleanser, one that is matched exactly to your needs and preferences. Alternatively, you can use our online questionnaire to tell is all about your skin and we will create your perfect cleanser for you. If you have any specific questions about cleansing or skincare routines, please follow Jennifer Young on Twitter @jenniferksin and tweet your questions. If you are in treatment for cancer, ask your medical team for advice before having a massage. Application of a cleanser is not, as far as we know, contraindicated during treatment, so feel free to apply cleansing balm.

By Jennifer Young