Importance of Cleansing and Toning

Cleansing is the first step for your daily face care. Proper cleansing removes dirt, make-up, and other connected things from skin and also clears the way for penetration of active ingredients which might be applied afterwards. The major suggestions are: 1. Clean your face twice daily, first in the morning and then before going to bed. 2. Use lukewarm water; never use hot water for face. 3. Use a mild cleanser or face wash. Do not use soap, because soap strips the natural moisturizing factors from the skin, leaving it feeling very tight and dry. Cleansers vary by the amount and types of detergents, moisturizers, emollients and other ingredients. Pick up the right type of cleansers for your skin as your skin type requires. But whatever your skin type may be, avoid cleansers with harsh detergents, soap and alcohol (except perhaps for extremely oily skin). Follow these easy steps for cleansing or washing. At first, gently apply cleanser (cleansing milk) all over your face for half a minute, using your fingertips. Then rinse thoroughly with water till no residue is left. Make your face dry with a clean towel, do not rub your face, and be sure that your face is still moist. After cleansing comes the toning. It helps to remove any residual cleanser or make up that may have been left. A toner also helps restore the natural pH level of the skin, leaving skin clean, clear and ready to be hydrated. Toners also close the pores thus preventing concomitants from penetrating into the facial skin. But toning is not recommended when the toners contain more alcohol and/or witch hazel. Both are drying and irritating, especially if you have dry or sensitive skin. These alcohol-based toners tend to strip everything off, leaving the skin dry and/or irritated. If you still feel you need a toner, use a soothing toner free of alcohol or witch hazel. Try to use a toner that contains natural moisturizers. Beside this, many people end their facial skin care by applying skin care products containing active ingredients. Toners reduce the pore size temporarily, thus preventing concomitants from penetrating into the facial skin. Toners tighten the skin muscles which make your skin feel refreshed and invigorated. And if you have oily skin and after cleansing it remains sticky or oily, you might benefit from applying toner after cleansing.