Collection: Cleansing and Makeup Removal

Cleansing is the most underrated step in a skincare routine and, at the same time, the one most easily done incorrectly. Overly aggressive washing damages the skin barrier and triggers a vicious cycle: the skin reacts with dryness or sebum overproduction. In this category, you will find gels, foams, milks, oils, and micellar waters from premium dermocosmetic brands.

Double cleansing — when does it make sense

The rule is simple: like dissolves like. Sunscreens, waterproof makeup, and sebum are most effectively removed by an oil or balm, followed by a gel to wash away the residue. If you use sunscreen daily — and you should — double cleansing in the evening is justified.

In the morning, one gentle product is enough, and for very dry skin, often just water or a toner will suffice. At night, the skin does not get dirty enough to require heavy-duty cleansing.

Which product for which skin type

• Oily and acne-prone skin — gels and foams, possibly with salicylic acid. Avoid products that leave your skin feeling "squeaky clean" — this is a sign that the barrier has been compromised.
• Dry skin — milks, cleansing creams, and balms. Soap-free formulas with a pH close to the skin's natural pH.
• Sensitive and vascular skin — fragrance-free gel-creams, micellar waters for reactive skin.
• Combination skin — a light gel or foam; if cheeks are dry, focus on cleansing the T-zone more thoroughly.
• Makeup and sunscreens — an oil or balm as the first step, regardless of skin type.

Common mistakes

Hot water — dilates blood vessels and worsens dryness. Use lukewarm water instead.

"Squeaky clean" washing — this is not a sign of cleanliness, but of a damaged hydrolipid barrier.

Micellar water without rinsing — surfactants left on the skin can cause irritation. Rinse off or wipe with a toner.

Daily facial brushes — for sensitive and vascular skin, they usually do more harm than good.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need to wash my face in the morning? For oily skin, yes. For dry and sensitive skin, rinsing with water or using a toner is often enough.

Is facial soap bad? Classic soap has an alkaline pH and disrupts the barrier. Syndets and products with a pH of 5–5.5 are a better choice.

How many times a day should I wash my face? A maximum of twice. Washing more frequently usually worsens the skin's condition.

See also: toners and mists, exfoliators, acne-prone skin, sensitive skin.