CLEANSER

The primary goal of cleansing is to remove makeup, dirt and excess oil from the skin, but this initial skincare step also provides an opportunity to get additional benefits from specific ingredients that can enhance your complexion’s overall health and appearance. The ideal facial cleanser formula depends on your skin type, which can change from season to season and even fluctuate based on hormonal or environmental factors such as traveling to a climate your skin is unaccustomed to. The five main skin types are normal, dry, oily, combination and sensitive. There are several facial cleanser options for each, and you can choose based on your texture preferences as well. 

A facial cleanser is the foundation of any skincare regimen, and this basic but essential product sets the stage for products that follow. Yet face washes are not one-size-fits-all, and it’s important to know your specific skin type so you can choose the formula that gives your skin the ingredients it needs while helping to avoid unwanted side effects. 

Look for a cleanser that is hypoallergenic, free of fragrance, chemicals, or alcohol and has a non-foaming formula. It's also important to avoid antibacterial soaps and cleansers with exfoliators such as salicylic or glycolic acid, which can all dry out your skin. 

• Rinse with lukewarm water and pat dry with a soft towel.

• Apply moisturizer if your skin is dry or itchy. Be gentle when applying any cream around your eyes so you do not pull too     hard on this delicate skin.

• Limit washing to twice a day and after sweating. Wash your face once in the morning and once at night, as well as after sweating heavily. Perspiration, especially when wearing a hat or helmet, irritates the skin. Wash your skin as soon as possible after sweating.

Normal skin:

This skin type doesn’t experience excess dryness or oiliness, and is generally free of visible pores, acne and sensitivity.

Dry skin:

Skin is considered dry when it lacks water and natural oils. This skin type may have rough texture, visible lines and wrinkles, dullness, and loss of elasticity, as well as increased sensitivity and a tight, uncomfortable feel. 

Oily skin:

Oily skin produces too much sebum, and is likely to experience enlarged pores, blackheads, pimples and unwanted shine. 

Combination skin:

This skin type has areas of dryness and areas of oiliness. It’s common to have dullness and rough texture in some spots and enlarged pores, blackheads and shine in others (especially around the nose, chin and forehead). 

Sensitive skin:

Sensitive skin types tend to react to external factors, including skincare. Signs of sensitive skin can include stinging, burning and redness.