How to Use a Cleanser: Your Guide to Clear, Glowing Skin

Cleansing is the cornerstone of a healthy skincare routine, with studies showing that 55% of people skip this vital step in their daily regimen. Cleansing helps remove dirt, oil, makeup, and other impurities that accumulate on your skin throughout the day. But how do you use a cleanser effectively, and how often should you incorporate it into your routine? In this guide, we'll break it all down for you.

What is a cleanser?

A facial cleanser is a skincare product specifically designed to remove impurities from the skin. It helps clear away dirt, excess oil, makeup, and pollutants while preparing your skin for the rest of your skincare routine. Unlike soap, cleansers are formulated to maintain the skin’s natural barrier without causing irritation or dryness, making them a crucial step in achieving clear, glowing skin.

How to use face cleanser

Using a face cleanser might seem straightforward, but following the proper steps ensures that your skin gets the full benefits. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

Step 1: Wash Your Hands

Before touching your face, always make sure your hands are clean. This prevents transferring any dirt or bacteria from your hands to your skin, which could lead to breakouts or irritation. We recommend starting your routine strong with one of our uniquely scented hand washes, ideal for transforming your skincare routine into a sensory driven experience.

Step 2: Wet Your Face

Use lukewarm water to wet your face. Hot water can strip your skin of its natural oils, while cold water may not effectively loosen dirt and oil. Lukewarm water is gentle and helps open pores slightly for a more effective cleanse.

Step 3: Apply Cleanser

Take a small amount of your facial cleanser, about the size of a pea, and apply it to your face. Focus on areas that tend to accumulate more oil and dirt, such as your T-zone (forehead, nose, and chin).

Step 4: Gently Massage Face

Using your fingertips, gently massage the cleanser into your skin in circular motions. Be sure to cover all areas of your face, including your jawline and neck. This step should take at least 30-60 seconds to ensure the product has enough time to work.

Step 5: Rinse

Rinse your face thoroughly with lukewarm water to remove all traces of the cleanser. Make sure no residue is left behind, as leftover product can clog pores and lead to breakouts.

Step 6: Pat Dry

Gently pat your face dry with a soft, clean towel. Avoid rubbing your skin, as this can cause irritation or even damage the skin's surface.

Step 7: Continue Your Skincare Routine

Once your skin is clean and dry, follow up with the rest of your skincare routine. After your skin feels fresh and dry, continue your routine with Baltic Naturals products—think toners, eye creams, moisturizers, and don’t forget sunscreen during the day for that extra layer of protection. At night, you can lay down the sunscreen and experience the benefits of facial oils to seal the routine. 

Toners: Help balance your skin’s pH and prepare it to better absorb moisture and nutrients. Use our Toner to refresh and hydrate after cleansing.

Moisturizers: Lock in hydration and keep your skin feeling soft all day long. Try our Moisturizer for long-lasting, nourishing moisture.

Eye creams: Designed for the skin around the eyes, you can apply eye cream to help reduce puffiness, fine lines, and dark circles. Our Eye Creams provide nourishing care to leave the eye area looking refreshed and youthful.

Sunscreens (AM): Your final step, essential for protecting your skin from UV damage. Our Sunscreen is designed for lightweight, daily wear that won’t clog pores.

Facial Oils (PM): Deliver deep hydration and nourishment, helping to strengthen the skin's barrier and lock in moisture. Our Facial Oils are perfect for maintaining a healthy, radiant glow.

How often should you use facial cleanser?

Cleansing is essential for keeping your skin fresh and healthy, but how often should you use a facial cleanser? The frequency largely depends on your skin type and lifestyle.

Can you use cleanser daily?

Yes, you can (and should) use a cleanser daily. For most people, cleansing twice a day—once in the morning and once at night—is ideal. This helps to remove the buildup of oils, sweat, and environmental pollutants from the day and night. However, if your skin feels tight or dry after cleansing, you might want to stick to cleansing just once in the evening.

What are the benefits of cleansers?

Facial cleansers offer several benefits that go beyond just cleaning your skin. Here’s why they are so essential to your routine:

Clear skin

Cleansers help prevent breakouts by removing excess oils and impurities that can clog your pores. Regular cleansing can keep your complexion looking clear and radiant.

Clean skin

Beyond just clear skin, regular use of a facial cleanser ensures that your skin remains free from dirt, makeup, and pollutants that can accumulate throughout the day. This cleanliness helps other products in your skincare routine work more effectively.

Healthy skin

Using a cleanser designed for your skin type can help maintain your skin’s natural moisture balance. Proper cleansing supports your skin’s overall health, promoting a soft, smooth, and hydrated complexion.

Types of cleansers

There are various types of cleansers available, each suited to different skin types and concerns. Common types include:

• Foam Cleansers: Suitable for combination or oily skin types, foam cleansers create a rich lather to remove oil and impurities. Our cleansing foam is suitable for oily and combination skin, whilst still working very well for other skin types, crafted with a soft spring bloom aroma to delight the senses.
• Cleansing Milks: Great for dry or sensitive skin, cleansing milks, like our gentle cleansing milk, provide hydration while gently cleansing the skin.
• Micellar Water: A gentle option for all skin types, micellar water cleans and removes makeup without the need for rinsing, making it great for quick and effective cleansing.
• Gel Cleansers: Ideal for oily or acne-prone skin, gel cleansers help to deep clean and reduce excess oil.
• Oil Cleansers: Perfect for all skin types, especially dry or sensitive skin. Oil cleansers dissolve makeup and impurities without stripping the skin.

Final Thoughts: Achieving Clear, Glowing Skin with the Right Cleanser

Using the right facial cleanser and following a proper cleansing routine is essential for maintaining clear, healthy, and glowing skin. Cleansing helps to remove dirt, oil, and impurities while preparing your skin for other skincare steps. Whether you’re cleansing daily or experimenting with different types of cleansers, understanding your skin’s needs will help you achieve the best results. With consistent care and attention, your skin will look and feel refreshed, radiant, and balanced.