Cleanser... An essential item in every skincare routine. You know, if we're being honest, I don't get too fussy about cleansers. As long as they cleanse and don't leave my skin feeling super stripped, then I'm usually a happy blogger. Of course, there are always exceptions to the rule... Anyhow, today is all about getting your cleanse on so cleanse, baby, cleanse!
Amie New Bloom Gentle Facial Cleansing Wipes* 25 Count $6.50 CAD | Soap & Glory Off Your Face Cleansing Cloths 25 Count $10 CAD
Soap & Glory Off Your Face Cleansing Cloths had me intrigued when I spotted them on a recent drugstore jaunt as they're infused with a 3-in-1 formula that contains what they call 'Poreshrink-RS' an acid free exfoliator. The wipes have a very similar texutre to the Amie ones, but unlike them, are on the drier side. I find I need to use at least two to remove my makeup. That said, they do leave skin feeling quite clean and don't leave skin feeling dry like I find many wipes do. One downside to both wipes is the packaging. The sticker/label that keeps the packaged sealed isn't the best for keeping moisture in, so I recommend keeping them in a Ziploc for optimal freshness.
Avon Elements Nourishing Cleansing Milk* 200ml $7.99 USD / CAD | Avon Elements Refining Scrub & Mask* 100ml $6.99 USD / $7.99 CAD
Okay, so I did mention I'm not overly picky about cleansers, but an exception to the rule is Avon Elements Nourishing Cleansing Milk- I love it! It's an oil-free, cleanser formulated with Edelweiss extract to be gentle on even the most delicate skin. It works to break up makeup- even eye makeup, including waterproof mascara!- and cleanses skin thoroughly leaving it silky smooth.
From the same range, there's Avon Elements Refining Scrub & Mask. Don't let the name sway you, it's a 3-in-1 one formula that acts as a daily cleanser, scrub and mask. It can be used as a daily exfoliating cleanser or used as a mask a few times a week to deeply cleanse skin and pores while gently sloughing away dead skin. The amount of scrub is perfect, as it's not too gentle or too harsh, and does reveal smoother, refreshed skin.
Amie Morning Clear Purifying Facial Wash* 150ml $10 CAD | Bioré Combination Skin Balancing Cleanser* 200ml $6.99 USD / $9.99 CAD
Sometimes all you need is a basic cleanser, in which case Amie Morning Clear Purifying Facial Wash is an excellent option. A soap free formula with Mayblossom and Elderflower to control oil and prevent blemishes and orange blossom and raspberry to tone and refresh, this works nicely as a morning cleanser. It leaves skin feeling fresh and clean but not stripped or tight.
Another option, which is also great for breakout season or blemish prone skin in general, is Bioré Combination Skin Balancing Cleanser. Formulated to be deep cleansing, but also non-stripping as it removes sebum and oil from skin without disturbing skin's natural moisture barrier. I love that it's gentle on skin- especially when used during a breakout- but still gets skin super clean and, as the name suggests, balanced.
Garnier Clean+ Nourishing Cleansing Oil* 125ml $6.99 USD / $10.99 | DHC Deep Cleansing Oil 200ml $25 USD / $33 CAD
What's a cleanser post without oils? Cleansing oils have become one of my favourite forms of cleanser as they're just so versatile. One of the first (and only, I think?) to hit drugstores comes in the form of Garnier Clean+ Nourishing Cleansing Oil which uses jojoba and macadamia oils to remove makeup and cleanse skin. As this is formulated for dry skin, it does have a bit of a 'feel' on skin... I don't want to say film, but it kind of is, like the feel on skin after using an oil based body scrub. It's not bad, but it is there. As such, I do tend to use this most as a makeup remover followed by a second cleanser. That said, it is nicely hydrating and leaves skin feeling very soft and smooth.
From the drugstore to a classic cleansing oil- DHC Deep Cleansing Oil. Olive oil based, this works magic on any and every kind of makeup. The oil is a bit thicker than the Garnier cleanser and emulsifies to a milkier consistency when you add water which results in a cleaner rinse and no film left on skin. I picked up the limited edition Alice in Wonderland bottle (so cute!) but the standard bottle is always available and a classic for a very good reason. Of the two oils, I do appreciate that I can get Garnier at my local drugstore, but DHC has the superior formula for me.
Overall, there is a cleanser for every need and preference. What do look for in a cleanser? Tried any of these? Have any recommendations?
