My Current Cleansing Wardrobe

Though I use myriad different cleansers, I’ve recently come to realise they all fall into one of two camps: 1) Those that whip off make-up and dirt without damaging the barrier, or 2) Those that gently exfoliate/break down sebum/strengthen skin and are, essentially, a first skincare step.

I currently have five on the go which is admittedly comprehensive, but there are merits to this ‘wardrobe’ approach to skincare, primarily that everything lasts longer and that you have options when skin’s needs change (I personally find that my skin needs far gentler care when my hormones are shifting around).

Here is a brief rundown of my current favourites and how I use them //

Neutrogena Hydro Boost Gelee Milk Cleanser / I’ve started to wear a fair heft of make-up when I’m filming and like to just remove the excess without dragging at skin or robbing it of moisture. A dollop of this on a cotton pad does the job really well, plus I find the cooling gel really pleasant after a long day.

Erno Laszlo Sensitive Cleansing Oil / There are plenty of cleansing oils on the market now and navigating them can be tricky. I like one that slips over skin with ease, emulsifies and then disappears down the sink without leaving an oily film – or dryness – in its wake. This one does just that and I use it after the Neutrogena at night to get rid of every last vestige of make-up.

Aurelia Miracle Cleanser / I’m borderline obsessed with Aurelia’s Refine + Polish Miracle Balm, which I use as a mask/extra layer of skincare when my skin is being a bit mental as products by this brand seems to be uncommonly good at bolstering the barrier function (if your barrier’s compromised, you’ll notice redness/dryness/funny patches of skin – I usually notice this happens as the seasons change, though stress and poor skin care have an effect in my case too). This cleansing cream has taken the place of my usual balms, though I use it similarly – on a dry face after removing make-up, massaged in for as long as I can manage that evening, removed with a warm, damp flannel.

Dr. Levy 3 Deep Cell Renewal Micro-Surfacing Cleanser / I sub this in where the Aurelia cleanser usually goes when I need a bit more oomph in my skin – or if spots are starting to emerge. It exfoliates chemically with a touch of physical action too, and can be used neat on dry skin, mixed with a cleanser or as a mask. I use it in all three ways, depending on my skin’s needs.

Omorovicza Moor Cream Cleanser / This is my current morning choice. I like that it is almost like a very speedy mask and will help draw out impurities and diminish oiliness while purifying gently, and I apply it to ever-so-slightly damp skin, massage heartily (as I talk to the dog) to give it a chance to go to work (I talk to him incessantly as I get ready and this little ritual has become one of my favourite parts of the morning), and then wash it off with warm water.