Skin Cleansing
This is the first step in your routine. Morning and evening are
usually the best times for cleansing, although if you are going
out in the evening and reapplying makeup, always cleanse your face
first. There is such a wide range of facial cleansers on the market
today, formulated for various types of skin, that you will soon
discover the one that suits you best. The decision as to which type
of cleanser you choose is a personal one, but it is important that
you select a product that is right for your skin.
Women used to believe that soap and water should be used to clean
the face, but soap is drying and defatting, and should not be used
on the face unless your skin is very oily. Special soapless cleansing
bars are perfect if you love the feel of soap and water. These are
degined to be gentle on the skin, particularly dry skin. Other cleansers
that foam up when combined with water are available - these are
ideal if you dislike the feeling of cream. But don't forget that
hard water alone is defatting and dries out the skin.
There is a wide variety of cleansing creams and lotions available.
These are probably the best way to clean, as they are gentle on
the skin and contain none of the harsh ingredients that some of
the other forms of cleansers have. Most cleansing lotions are intended
to be applied to the skin and then wiped off with clean cotton wool
pads or tissues; others are rinsed off with water and a flannel.
After cleansing, make sure that any residue of cleanser is thoroughly
removed. With facial bars or soaps, rinse your face repeatedly to
remove any film that might adhered to the skin. If your face still
feels sticky, wipe over it again with dampened cotton wool pads
- if it doesn't come away clean, rinse again. If using a cream or
lotion, wipe the face with a dampened cotton wool pad to make sure
that all the cream is removed.
Personal Skin Care Plan
Cleanser for Oily Skin - Choose an oil-free soap or a
water-soluble lotion. Cleanse at least twice a day.
Cleanser for Combination Skin - Choose a creamy lotion
with a light oil agent or a soapless cleansing bar. Cleanse twice
a day.
Cleanser for Dry and Mature Skin - Choose a creamy lotion
or a soapless cleansing bar. Cleanse once or twice a day.
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