An Esthetician’s Take On Cleansing By Samantha Mims
“I’ve come to realize that most people prefer to “feel something” with their skincare products...that sensation tricks the mind into believing that the product is actually working.”
As someone who grew up using the typical foam cleansers that you could find at almost any local pharmacy or beauty supply store – I didn’t realize how extensive the range of textures were until I started studying for my esthetics license. Skincare was a self-taught practice in my household. My mother stuck with her tried-and-true brands but as I grew into my teens I had my own struggles as it pertained to my skin. With no expert advice on how to properly care for my skin, I began doing my own research and that ultimately sparked my curiosity into the world of skincare. Fast forward to now, I am a licensed Skin Therapist and my perspective on cleansers and cleansing have evolved. When it comes to choosing the right cleanser, your choice comes down to a combination of skin type and personal preference.
People with oilier skin types tend to draw to foaming and gel cleansers as they’re less likely to clog the pores and create more oil. Someone with sensitive skin typically appreciates a water-based, non-fragranced cleanser that is gentle and doesn’t disturb the skin. Those who are a combination of oily and dry or are mostly dry are going to benefit from creams and gels as the first step in their routines. With cleansers formulated across these options – oils, gels, foams, and creams – it can be overwhelming to know where to start.
“Having a cleanser that will work just as hard as a serum is rare, but it exists [with Baptism].”
What it means to “feel something”
Throughout my experience as a skin therapist I’ve gathered that most clients are looking to experience that ahhh feeling when it comes to their products and routine. Whether it be in the form of a beaded exfoliant or a stimulating cleanser, that sensation tricks the mind into believing that the product is actually working. In fact, if you experience any redness, burning, or discomfort while using a product, that is your biggest sign to discontinue using it. The most important factors that should be considered in choosing the right cleanser are its key ingredients and whether your skin remains balanced after your cleanse. Does your skin feel clean and supple without feeling stiff?
Gentle, effective Baptism
Here’s where Baptism comes into play. I was excited to try Baptism for the first time as I was in search of replacing my current cleanser for the new season. I was immediately impressed by its silky-smooth texture upon first contact with my skin. It quickly transforms into a soft foam and maintains its foam as you work the product in. It’s easily spreadable, allowing a little to go a long way and is guaranteed to remove light makeup and the dirt of the day. I don’t wear much makeup except for the occasional mascara and blush but it felt nice to check those boxes. No stripping of my skin's natural oils yet I still feel clean and balanced.
With its complex of surfactants, amino acids and glycolipids, Baptism is designed to repair and restore the skin with each cleanse. Having a cleanser that will work just as hard as a serum is rare, but it exists. What’s also cool is that there are options between fragranced and fragrance-free versions. I generally alternate between fragranced and mildly-fragranced products so naturally I enjoy using both. My skin can tolerate it but if your skin is easily reactive to new products then the choice is obvious that fragrance-free is most likely for you.
If you enjoy the balance of the two, hitting those sensorial points can elevate your cleansing experience. The fragranced version of Baptism includes the calming effects of cedarwood, placing you in a state of gratitude and relaxation. It’s an added bonus!
“There has been a misconception about whether you should be cleansing your skin in the morning and evening.”
But when should you cleanse?
There has been a misconception about whether you should be cleansing your skin in the morning and evening. I notice that most clients who struggle with dry skin withdraw from cleansing in the mornings because they believe it’s causing their skin to dry out further. Instead, it is common to opt for a rinse with water and follow through normally with your routine. I’ve always doubted this method because I know that cleansing is the first step to sustaining a resilient barrier. It creates a healthy environment for the products that come after cleansing and supports the skin’s functionality.
As you may or may not know, at night, your skin is working overtime as you rest while simultaneously collecting dirt from the linens you lay on. So, just when you thought your evening cleanse was enough, your morning skin looks forward to that refresh. All of this plays into the turnover process of fresh skin. As an attempt to reduce wasting product while maintaining an efficient cleanse, I came to the conclusion that certain skin types benefit from using less product and both variations of the cleanser. To simplify this explanation, I’ve created an infographic that sets you up for the right kind of clean with Baptism based on your skin type and experience.
