The truth? Great skin needn’t be complicated or take lots of time. Years of researching products and ingredients have allowed me to distil the process into 4 simple steps – Cleanse, Prevent, Protect and Treat. And while the products may differ depending on your skin type and specific needs, these 4 steps will help keep your skin looking young and healthy, whatever your age.
In the upcoming weeks, we’ll focus on each step and help you understand what each step does and why it’s essential to achieving great skin.
Step 1: Cleanse
Cleansing helps keep your face free from make-up, dirt and oils, which may lead to blemishes, redness or irritation. It also provides a clean surface to better absorb active ingredients and a smooth base for make-up. While much has been made about celebrities using only water to cleanse, dermatologists tend to agree that simple H2O is not enough to remove all the sunscreen, cosmetics and pollution that sit on our skin all day. Although I have been known to use only water and a soft washcloth in the morning, my skin doesn’t really feel clean until I do my nightly cleansing ritual.
Depending on preference, you may opt for one step (just a cleanser) or two-step cleansing (cleansing oil/make-up remover followed by a cleanser). We’re all familiar with using one cleansing but the two-step method (aka Double Cleansing ) has definitely gained followers over the past few years thanks to the growing popularity of facial oils and the influx of new, cutting-edge ideas from Asia.
We love Apothekari Cloud Nine Foaming Cleansing Crème because it’s suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin and individuals with rosacea. Rich with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory ingredients, this gentle cleanser never leaves skin feeling dry or stripped of natural oils. I’m pleased to say that Cloud Nine has won over even the toughest critics in the family: tween girl and man of the house.
If you’re ready to take it up a notch, Apothekari AHA-Mazing Clean Gel is an exfoliating cleanser featuring sugar cane extract and a triple combination of alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) to help smooth fine lines and wrinkles, gently exfoliate clogged pores and promote cellular renewal. Although designed for all skin types, use caution if you are overly sensitive or prone to rosacea.
Whichever cleanser you choose, rinse thoroughly with warm (not hot!) water and pat dry with a soft towel. Now your fresh face is ready for Step 2: Prevent. Watch this space!
