116 AWW.COM.AUAUGUST 2017
GETTY IMAGES. IMAGES POSED FOR BY MODELS NOT ASSOCIATED WITH THIS STORY.A good scrub with soap and water may have done the job when you
were young, but as your skin matures, an effective facial cleanser is essential
for soft and supple skin.Sheree Muttonlooks at the different choices
of cleanser around and the pitfalls of over-cleansing.
H
ealthy skin begins with
a good skin routine and
this includes the vital
step of cleansing once
or twice a day. Failing to
wash your face properly can lead to
skin irritation, clogged pores and
acne breakouts. A quality facial
cleanser helps remove make-up
and dirt, purifying the skin without
stripping it of its natural oils – which
is especially important for older skin.
“The ideal facial cleanser is pH
matched to the skin, fragrance free,
moisturises as it cleanses and is
environmentally friendly,” says
Melbourne dermatologist Dr
Adam Sheridan.
“Your age, skin type and any
co-existing dermatological conditions
are all considerations when selecting
the best facial cleanser.”
Cleansers also help to prepare the
skin for serums and moisturisers thatDID YOU KNOW?
Traditional soaps raise
the pH of the skin, giving
a feeling of tightness
and cleanliness, but in
fact, the skin’s natural
protective lipids have
been removed.will deliver hydration, antioxidants
and sun protection.
Choosing the best cleanser for you
largely depends on your skin type.
“For dry and/or sensitive skin, look
for cleansers labelled ‘gentle’, ‘soap-
free’, or ‘hypoallergenic’,” says
Sydney dermatologist Dr
Eleni Yiasemides. “These
tend to be milky or cream-
based cleansers.
“For oily or acne-
prone skin, look for
active cleansers that
contain ingredients
such as alpha hydroxy
acids [AHAs], such as
glycolic acid or lactic acid;
beta hydroxy acids [BHAs],
such as salicylic acid;
polyhydroxy acids [PHAs];
witch hazel; benzoyl peroxide; or
azelaic acid. These tend to be gel-
or water-based cleansers.”is not
enough
Why soap
1
Cleansing wipes
Make-up remover and cleansing
wipes have been popular for decades,
particularly because they suit busy
women and are inexpensive.
“Wipes are a convenient and
practical option when one needs to
cleanse ‘on the run’, especially
when there is not an ample
water supply,” says
Dr Sheridan. “They
do, however, tend to
be harsher than other
modes of cleansing
and do little to
rehydrate the skin.
“On a day when these
are used, it is especially
important to use a pH
balanced moisturising cleanser
before bed if at all possible.”
Dr Yiasemides recommends
choosing towelettes which contain no
preservatives to avoid any allergic»[ Beauty]