Cleansing care - Buying guide : Your online pharmacy selection

What is a cleanser and why is it important for the skin?

A cleanser is a product designed to remove impurities, excess sebum and make-up residue from the skin's surface. This process is crucial for maintaining skin health, preventing imperfections, and enabling better absorption of subsequent skincare products. Proper cleansing also helps keep pores clear and reduces the appearance of blackheads and pimples.

What types of cleansers are there, and how do I choose the right one for my skin?

There are several types of cleanser, each suited to different skin types:

1. Cleansing gel: Ideal for oily and combination skin. It cleanses deeply and eliminates excess sebum without drying the skin.
2. Cleansing milk: Suitable for dry and sensitive skin. Gently cleanses and moisturizes skin.
3. Micellar water: Suitable for all skin types, this solution is particularly recommended for sensitive skin. It captures impurities with its micelles and requires no rinsing.
4. Cleansing oil: Effective for removing waterproof make-up and nourishing the skin at the same time, suitable for all skin types.
5. Cleansing foam: Perfect for normal to combination skin, it offers a fresh, light sensation.

To choose the cleanser that's right for you, it's essential to know your skin type and its specific needs.

How to use a cleanser correctly

To use a cleanser correctly, follow these steps:

1. Wash your hands to avoid transferring bacteria to your face.
2. Moisten your face with warm water to open pores.
3. Apply a generous amount ofproduct and gently massage in circular movements to loosen impurities.
4. Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water to remove any product residue.
5. Patyour face dry with a clean towel, without rubbing to avoid irritation.

We recommend cleansing your face twice a day, morning and night, to keep your skin clean and healthy.

What are the benefits of a natural cleanser?

Natural cleansers offer several advantages:

1. Gentle ingredients: They use plant-derived ingredients that are less irritating to the skin.
2. Environmentally-friendly: Often formulated without harmful chemicals, they are more respectful of the environment.
3. Moisturizing: Many natural cleansers contain moisturizing ingredients like aloe vera or jojoba oil, which help maintain skin hydration.
4. Soothing properties: They are often enriched with soothing ingredients such as chamomile or witch hazel, which calm sensitive skin.

What's the difference between a cleanser and an exfoliator?

A cleanser is used daily to remove surface impurities, while an exfoliant is used once or twice a week to remove dead skin cells and promote cell renewal. Exfoliants contain abrasive particles or enzymes that help loosen and remove dead skin cells, giving the skin a smoother, more radiant appearance.

Can a cleanser help treat acne?

Yes, a cleanser can be beneficial in the treatment of acne. Using a product containing active ingredients such as salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide or zinc can help reduce pimples by unclogging pores and controlling sebum production. However, it's crucial to choose a product suited to your skin type and not overuse these ingredients to avoid irritation.

Can I use the same cleanser all year round?

You may need to adjust your cleanser according to the season. In winter, your skin may need a more moisturizing cleanser to combat dryness caused by the cold, while in summer, a lighter, mattifying cleanser may be needed to control excess sebum. Adapting your skincare routine to your skin's needs in each season is essential to maintaining its balance.

Can cleansing care reduce the signs of aging?

Yes, some cleansers can help reduce the signs of aging. They contain active ingredients such as antioxidants (vitamin C, vitamin E), hyaluronic acid and peptides that promote cell regeneration, moisturize the skin and protect against free radicals. Regular use of the right cleansing care can improve skin elasticity, reduce the appearance of wrinkles and give you a more youthful, radiant complexion.

How do I choose a cleanser for sensitive skin?

For sensitive skin, it's crucial to choose a cleanser formulated with gentle, soothing ingredients. Look for products that are fragrance-free, alcohol-free and hypoallergenic. Cleansers based onmicellar water or cleansing milk are often recommended. They cleanse effectively without disrupting the skin barrier. Ingredients such asaloe vera, chamomile andoatmeal are particularly beneficial for soothing and protecting sensitive skin.

Do I need to use a different cleanser if I'm wearing make-up?

If you wear make-up, it's advisable to use a cleanser capable of effectively removing make-up while deep-cleansing the skin. Cleansing oils and micellar waters are particularly effective at dissolving make-up, including waterproof make-up. It may be useful to follow with a second gentle cleanser (double cleansing method) to ensure that all make-up residues and impurities are removed.

What is the role of pH in a cleanser?

The pH of a cleanser is crucial to maintaining the skin's natural balance. Human skin has a slightly acidic pH, generally between 4.5 and 5.5. Using a cleanser with a similar pH helps preserve the skin's protective barrier and prevent irritation. Products with too alkaline a pH can upset this balance, leading to dryness, irritation and greater vulnerability to skin infections.

Can a cleanser help reduce dilated pores?

Yes, the right cleanser can help reduce the appearance of enlarged pores. Cleansers containing hydroxy acids (AHA, BHA) such as salicylic acid or glycolic acid are particularly effective. They gently exfoliate the skin, unclog pores and reduce excess sebum, helping to minimize the appearance of pores. Using a clay-based cleanser can also help absorb excess sebum and refine skin texture.