These
all-important facial cleansing tips will help you preserve your dewy complexion
for many years to come.
Facial cleansers do a lot more than simply clean your skin. Which is why most dermatologists agree that facial cleanser ingredients should be chosen for each skin type. In addition, they say that the best ingredients in facial cleansers include glycerine, retinol, salicylic acid, vitamin C, ceramides, plus chemical and physical exfoliants.
If you have a dry or sensitive skin, choose a cleanser with glycerine or ceramides. However, those with acne-prone or oily skin, should look for a cleanser with retinol or salicylic acid.
Salicylic Acid
As
a beta hydroxy acid, salicylic acid is great for decreasing oil production and
getting rid of dead skin cells. Its primary purpose is as a chemical exfoliant
to remove bacteria and old skin debris. Therefore, it’s perfect for oily and
acne-prone skin types. People with dry and/or sensitive skin should avoid salicylic
acid because it may cause dryness and irritation.
Ceramides
As
lipids that exist naturally in our skin, ceramides help serve as environmental barriers.
Thus they hydrate the skin and lock in moisture. Better yet, they soothe
sensitive skin. So this ingredient is perfect for dry or sensitive skin.
Retinol
A
vitamin A derivative, retinol is used for anti-ageing and anti-acne purposes.
And because it increases skin turnover, it can improve skin texture, unclog
pores, increase collagen production and prevent acne breakouts. It may be
suitable for all skin types, but is best suited for acne-prone or oily skin.
Vitamin C
As an antioxidant, vitamin C protects against the harmful effects of free radicals on the skin. That makes vitamin C a warrior in preventing premature ageing and brightening the complexion. And the good news is, it’s suitable for all skin types.
Glycerine
This
humectant has the ability to attract water. Therefore, glycerine prevents
dryness and keeps the skin moisturised and hydrated. Dry and sensitive skins
would benefit from this ingredient.
Chemical exfoliants
Glycolic acid, Lactic acid, Azelaic acid, Salicylic acid and Trichloroacetic acid all remove the outermost layer of dead skin cells. So, it’s ideal for cell turnover, improving discolouration and helping with acne. Luckily, all skin types will benefit from chemical exfoliants, but those with dry skin should rather opt for alpha hydroxy acids such as lactic acid or glycolic acids.
Physical exfoliants
Importantly, these are scrubs containing particles such as granules, meaning that you manually exfoliate the skin. Their main purpose is to remove dead skin cells, thus softening the skin. But take note, this is definitely not an ingredient for sensitive skins.
The take-out
These
all-important facial cleansing tips should help you on your way to good
cleansing practices. However, it’s always a good idea to double-check with your
dermatologist before spending a fortune on the wrong cleanser.
