No matter what skin type you have, you can’t go wrong with a good gentle facial cleanser. In fact, there is a theory that if you have oily or combination skin, using oil-free cleansing products can actually strip the skin of its natural oils, causing it to produce even more. Gentle cleansers clean the skin and remove dirt but still protect its natural balance without that drying effect.
So here are three of my favourite gentle cleansers that help keep my skin clear, comfortable and protected.
First up is my current favourite, Yes to Cucumber’s Soothing Daily Gentle Cleanser. I bought it about a month ago as part of my Garden Pharmacy haul which you can read about here. This is my first foray into the Yes To products and I must say I am impressed. It’s hypoallergenic and contains 96% natural ingredients such as cucumber, green tea and aloe vera which are all packed with vitamins. They also soothe and protect the skin. This cleanser has a subtle, cucumber scent and a clear gel consistency. It feels lovely and cooling on the skin and has a low, creamy lather. I have been using this for a couple of months now, which is pretty good for a 95g tube, and my skin seems to really like it. I will definitely be using this again, especially as it is only £8.99. I am now keen to try a few more things from the Yes To range.
Next up, is a cleanser that I discovered a few years ago – Amie’s Morning Clear Purifying Facial Wash. This one is the thickest and creamiest of the bunch. It does not lather when applied to damp skin but rather melts into a milky consistency that softens and moisturises as it cleans. It contains orange blossom, mayblossom, elderflower and raspberry so obviously the scent is to die for – perfect for spring! I only stopped using this face wash because I had been using it for a good year or so and wanted to try something new. My skin loves it so much and I always keep it as a back-up for days when my skin plays up and I need something that I know will calm it down. I don’t have enough good things to say about this brand (you can read past gushings here); all the products are free from parabens, sulphates and contain lovely natural ingredients. They are also unbelievably good value – this cleanser only costs £4.95 for Pete’s sake!
Last but not least, is a brand I have been using for years and years. I was put on to Martha Hill by my granny when I was a teenager, and despite the fact that it is predominantly geared towards older skin concerns, there are some lovely, gentle, all-round products too. I particularly love the Martha Hill Camomile Gentle Facial Cleansing Gel with Aloe Vera and Cucumber. This is quite similar to the Yes To Cucumbers cleanser in a way as it contains a lot of those classic soothing ingredients. Similarly it has a cooling gel consistency but it does not lather. Again, free from all the nasties, this is a trusty can’t-go-wrong cleanser that will always be in my skin care arsenal. Even better, it only costs £6.80.
I love all three of these facial cleansers as they are so gentle and soothing; perfect for all skin types, not just sensitive. They are all great value and a true testament to the fact that great skin care doesn’t always need a hefty price tag.
Have you ever used any of these cleansers? What are your go-to gentle cleansers?
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