Why cleansing is important even if you're not removing make-up

Removing your make-up is an essential part of your beauty routine, and the most important. Why ? Because it not only removes product, it also gets rid of the impurities that have built up during the day, including pollution and excess sebum. If you don't remove your make-up on a daily basis, those impurities will cause spots, premature wrinkles and blocked pores. Most make-up removers not only cleanse the skin but also help keep it soft, supple and hydrated too.

Ideally, you should cleanse twice a day : in the morning you need to remove the toxins from the night and prepare your face for your other skincare products ; and in the evening you should remove your make-up to let your skin breathe. Be gentle with your skin to protect it and prevent damage to the hydrolipidic film, which forms a barrier against external aggressions. Start by placing soaked cotton wool pads over each eye to dilute your eye make-up. Use circular motions, moving from the roots to the tips of your eyelashes. Brush your eyebrows backwards with the cotton wool before smoothing them back down. End by cleansing the rest of your face using your hands to reduce friction and avoid irritating your skin. Use circular movements over your forehead, cheeks, chin and nostrils and don't forget your neck. Remove all traces of your cleanser with cotton wool soaked in warm water.

We'd like to say it doesn't matter, provided it is gentle on the skin. However it's also important to use the right product for your skin type.

- Lotions : gentle and kind to the skin, their creamy texture makes them the most pleasant to use.

- Micellar water : removes make-up and tones in one, without the need to rinse. Perfect for those in a hurry, it's suitable for all skin types, even sensitive skins.

- Gels and creams : particularly good for combination or oily skins, these deep-clean the skin leaving it spotless. Remember to rinse off thoroughly.

- Cleansing facial wipes : ideal for travelling, these are not recommended for sensitive or dry skin as they can irritate.

- Cleansing foams : A mild cleansing foam is particularly deep cleaning, making them good for spot-prone skin.

- Oil cleansers : suitable for all skin types, even oily skin, they cleanse without friction and their vegetable oils offer a layer of protection.

- Cleansing bars : they soften, lubricate and soothe very dry and sensitive skin.