Listen, Babe – if you’re anything like me, you grew up hearing some seriously SILLY advice when it comes to beauty and skincare. We won’t name names, but let’s just say… there are some 90s trends that need to stay in the past ;)
Today, we know better.
There are tons of resources out there teaching us how to care for our skin (and ourselves!) more consciously. But in the age of information, sometimes the basics end up getting lost in the mix. Inspired by the Valia Cleanser featured in our Hello Spring box, we put together a list of 6 Tips for Cleansing Your Skin – with conscious living in mind, as always.
You already know that cleansing is an essential part of your skincare routine, helping remove dirt, oil, makeup, and other impurities that can clog pores and lead to acne, inflammation, and other skin concerns (no, thank you). But beyond the obvious, cleansing actually helps to prepare your skin for other products, insuring all those #shelfie ready toners, serums, and moisturizers hanging out in your skincare cabinet are able to do their best work.
The first step in proper skin cleansing is to choose the right cleanser for your skin type. If you have oily or acne-prone skin, you may benefit from a foaming or gel cleanser that helps remove excess oil and unclog pores. If you have dry or sensitive skin, a cream or lotion cleanser may be gentler and less likely to cause irritation. (Our Valia Cleanser from East 29th is super gentle, so it’s safe to use if you have eczema or sensitive skin!)
Bonus Conscious Living Tip: Look for products that are labeled as non-comedogenic (meaning they won't clog pores) and free of harsh chemicals such as sulfates and parabens.
It's important to cleanse your skin twice a day – once in the morning and once at night – to remove makeup, dirt, and oil buildup. If you exercise or sweat heavily during the day, you may want to cleanse your skin again after your workout. However, over-cleansing can also strip your skin of its natural oils, so be careful not to overdo it.
Bonus Conscious Living Tip: Turn the tap off when you’re not actively using it!
When cleansing your skin, use lukewarm water rather than hot water, which can dry out your skin. Splash your face with water and then apply your cleanser, massaging it into your skin with your fingertips. Be gentle and don't scrub too hard, as this can damage your skin and cause redness and irritation.
After massaging your cleanser into your skin, rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water, making sure to remove all traces of the cleanser. Leaving cleanser residue on your skin can lead to clogged pores and breakouts.
Bonus Conscious Living Tip: Use a damp washcloth to remove any residue and preserve water.
After rinsing, gently pat your skin dry with a clean towel. Avoid rubbing your skin, as this can cause irritation and may even spread bacteria.
After cleansing, follow up with a toner to help restore your skin's natural pH balance and remove any remaining impurities. Then, apply a moisturizer to help hydrate and protect your skin. Choose a moisturizer that's appropriate for your skin type and contains sunscreen if you're going outside during the day.
Bonus Conscious Living Tip: Follow the directed amounts when it comes to serums and moisturizers to minimize product waste!
Just like any self-care routine, we recommend making the process your own. Light a candle, put on your favourite affirmation track, and create a ritual you look forward to.
Remember: conscious living begins with the products we choose and the brands we support. East 29th is Fragrance-Free, Cruelty-Free, Vegan, Female-founded, and gender-inclusive, focusing on mental health + bringing awareness to the clean beauty movement while simplifying routines. We are so proud to feature them in our Hello Spring box, and can’t wait for you to try the Valia Cleanser.
Xo,
Jess