Whether you’re coming home after a long day of work or school don’t just head straight to bed. You might think that just one night of sleeping in my makeup is no big deal, but the drawbacks are worse than the few extra minutes it takes to wash your face. Otherwise, overnight pores can be get clogged; also your skin repairs itself at night and makeup (plus the pollution and other matter stuck to your face after a long day) can make this difficult. Here are some suggestions:
Start with your eyes. Taking a clean cotton ball, saturate the ball with eye makeup remover (avoid using regular cleanser as the eye area is delicate). Without tugging too hard on the skin, wipe away any shadow or mascara and then rinse immediately with cool water. There are a variety of eye cleansers out there, such as Lancome’s Bi-Facial product. It’s expensive but lasts for a while (see Resources).
Next select the cleanser of your choice. If you have oily skin, use gel. If you have drier skin, use a cream. Most people have skin that varies from season to season so have a couple on hand. Wash in circular movements with light pressure, avoiding the eye area. Rinse with tepid, clean water.
Traditionally, most women have then used toners or astringents to complete the process. However, most cleansers are so advanced today, you don’t need this step. However, if you feel like your skin could benefit, use one without alcohol.
If you have the energy, I would add another step for some deep cleaning: a mask. Depending on your skin type, a clay or moisturizing mask would help rejuvenate your skin. This step should come after you wash your face but before you tone and/or moisturize or use another treatment product.Try Origins Mask Clear Improvement because although it looks like black tar, it gets skin really clean and is also great for all skin types (see Resources).
If you are really beat, and can barely keep your eyes open, at least use a face wipe. While it is tempting to do this every night, you should really save them for last-resort situations. One choice is the Sephora Brand Face 25 Makeup Removing Wipes. It cleans not only your face, but eyes and lips as well.