I’m not really sure whether or not there’s a right way to wash your face, but for the last three years or so, I’ve been using a method I call the double cleanse, which simply involves washing your face twice with two different facial cleansers. The first go-around, I’ll opt for something that removes makeup quite well. On the week days when I wear a minimal amount, the Dior Purifying Foaming Cleanser does a great job. I wouldn’t really consider it a “foaming” cleanser, which works well for dry skin gals like me and you only need a pea-sized amount so a little goes a long way. Over the weekends when I’m taking photos, I do wear a bit more makeup so I’ll use Clinique’s Take The Day Off Cleansing Balm – this basically melts everything off your face (although it probably would require extra work for waterproof mascara). I’ll then follow up with Kiehl’s Blue Herbal Gel Cleanser. I don’t think it removes makeup though and wouldn’t want it burning my eyes so I use it last. It leaves this super fresh, minty, tingly feeling – loves this stuff.
You might be wondering why so much…well the short answer is after a small acne bout three years ago, I’ve become deathly afraid of it and no, this method has not “stripped” my skin. Maybe it’s psychological, but in my mind, a first cleanse will remove the grease and grit on top. I then add the Kiehl’s to ensure my skin receives some added benefit and because I tend to think the acne-fighting ingredients (i.e. salicylic acid) will be more effective on a clean face. I do end my washing regimen with a toner which I haven’t found one I love enough yet so I won’t mention it here.
