Should you double cleanse?
According to Phillips, double cleansing can be a very effective way to remove sunscreen and make-up at the end of the day, but it isn’t necessary for everyone. “In the morning, a single, gentle cleanse is usually more than sufficient,” he explains. Oil-based cleansers can work well as a first step, but they don’t suit all skin types. “In those with oily or acne-prone skin, I often favour micellar water as a first cleanse, as it removes excess sebum without leaving a residue.”
Can you “overwash” your face?
In short, yes, it is possible to over-wash your face – especially if you’re cleansing too often or using harsh, foaming or exfoliating cleansers. Our skin barrier relies on a balance of natural lipids and a slightly acidic pH to function properly. “Over-cleansing can disrupt this barrier, leaving the skin feeling tight, dry, sensitive or irritated,” Phillips says. “It can also make inflammatory skin conditions, such as eczema, rosacea or acne, more difficult to manage.”
How to cleanse your face properly
Follow Galmiche’s four-step protocol for happy and healthy skin.
1. Choose the right cleanser
If your skin is prone to oiliness or you have combination skin, use a gel cleanser or one that foams up when lathered on. Seek out ingredients like niacinamide or salicylic acid, as they’ll help to start the gentle exfoliation process. If your skin is dry or sensitive, choose a cleansing milk or cleansing cream without sulphates.
2. Apply with your hands
Don’t use cotton pads, says Galmiche, as they can irritate skin. Instead, use your hands and massage in circular motions for 30 seconds. This will help to improve circulation and break down dirt particles.
3. Rinse with warm water
Very hot water damages the skin’s lipid barrier (the protective layer that works to retain water and moisture), and can cause dryness, irritation and flaking. Cold water, on the other hand, cannot completely remove a cleanser, leading to more residue being left behind. The happy medium? Warm. Galmiche says it should be no warmer than 30 degrees. This is the optimal temperature to effectively remove dirt without drying out the skin.
4. Pat, don’t rub
When drying your face, avoid rubbing the towel across your skin. This can cause irritation and remove the natural oils that maintain hydration levels, as well as increase sensitivity. Instead, gently pat using a soft towel (preferably microfibre, Galmiche says), ensuring it’s clean to stop the transfer of dirt or bacteria back onto your skin.
