DEFINITION

Skin Cleansing involves a variety of techniques with the aim of removing surface dirt and substances which can accumulate and cause clogging of the pores of the skin. Regular skin cleansing is recommended to help maintain a healthy, blemish-free complexion.

DESCRIPTION

Skin Cleansing performs many important functions including;
- Removal of make-up, particles of dust, impurities and excess perspiration and oil.
- Loosening and dislodging blockages of skin pores e.g., blackheads and clogging.
- Helping to rehydrate dry, dehydrated skin or reduce oil production in an over-oily skin.

SKIN LAYERS
What the eyes see is merely the surface of the skin. The skin is actually made up of three layers. These layers are:
EPIDERMIS - This top layer is known as the protective or 'horny' layer of the skin. The epidermis is about as thick as a piece of paper and is constantly being shed. This shedding process is a natural cleansing mechanism of the skin which involves the dead, dry cells of the epidermis being cast off and replaced with new cells.
DERMIS - The dermis is the next layer of skin laying underneath the epidermis and is responsible for giving the skin 'bounce'. The dermis contains the blood vessels which nourish the skin through the oil and sweat glands which help to lubricate and moisten the skin.
SUBCUTANEOUS - This is the third layer of the skin laying underneath the dermis and is made up of fatty tissue. This tissue makes up the rounded contours of the body and determines whether the skin is lined, wrinkled, firm or loose.

It is the epidermis which has the first visual impact and it is the proper Cleansing of this external surface on a daily basis which can help to maintain a healthy, blemish-free appearance. The skin is constantly being exposed to impurities resulting from pollution and dirt particles in the atmosphere.
Many women wear foundation on a regular basis which can lay on the surface of the skin along with the natural excretions of oil and perspiration. These substance can cause clogging of the pores of skin which may result in blackheads and pimples so it important to adopt a regular Skin Cleansing routine.
Different types of cleansers are recommended depending on the skin type. Soap is not recommended for the majority of skin types as it can have a very drying effect on the skin. As ageing occurs, the natural oil flow to the skin slows down and using soap may strip the skin of valuable moisture.
Many young people, particularly teenagers, have oily skin and like the 'squeaky clean' feeling that using soap provides. The soap, however, is only having a drying effect on the surface skin which can then promote an increase of secretions from the oil glands in the dermis skin layer.

CHOOSING THE RIGHT CLEANSER
- Oily, shiny skin which is prone to blackheads and pimples. This type of skin is best cleansed with a foaming wash. This type of Skin Cleanser usually gives a clean feeling without stripping the skin of natural, nourishing oils.
- Dry skin that has a taut feeling with no shine or open pores. A Cleansing milk is ideal for this skin type. A dry skin usually needs gentle Cleansing with moisture and oil replacement which is provided by most Cleansing milks.
- Combination skin is the description given to skin which has an oily 'T zone' on the face (the area of skin around the forehead, nose, mouth and chin). The skin in this area appears to have large, open pores and the cheeks are usually normal to dry. A cleansing gel is recommended for this type of skin. A gel-based Cleanser helps to gently cleanse the skin without having a harsh, drying effect.
- Mature skin which is losing its elasticity. Some lines may be evident on the surface of the skin and the skin has a tendency to be dry. This type of skin is best suited to a Cleansing cream or rich Cleansing milk which also helps to nourish and provide moisture to the skin.
NOTE: Cleansers may need to be alternated from Summer to Winter. In Summer the weather is usually hotter and more humid which can encourage an increased flow from oil glands and an increase in perspiration. Winter may require more gentle Skin Cleansing as the dryer weather and use of heaters can have a drying effect on the skin.

EXFOLIANTS / PEELS / SCRUBS
It is often recommended by Beauty Therapists to use either an exfoliant, peel or scrub once or twice a week (depending on the instructions) to provide the skin with an extra deep cleanse.
Exfoliants and scrubs are usually made up of a creamy base with a very fine grainy substance mixed through the cream. The finer the grains are, the more easily the exfoliant can cleanse the skin by lifting out particles of dirt from the surface and pores of the skin. Fine grained exfoliants are usually gentle on the skin whereas many exfoliants with larger particles can scratch and/or irritate the skin, making it rough to the touch.
Peels can be applied to the face and neck and left to dry for a matter of minutes (according to the directions). The peel is then rubbed or peeled gently off the skin. Some facial peels can be harsh on the skin. Certain exfoliants and peels now contain an enzyme which ingests dead cells. This is particularly beneficial to people with sensitive skin as no rubbing is involved which can further redden and aggravate the skin. Ask your Pharmacist or Pharmacy Beauty Consultant for advice before using a facial peel.

PHARMACIST'S ADVICE

1) Ask your Pharmacist or Pharmacy Beauty Consultant for advice about starting or improving your Skin Cleansing routine.
2) The best way to use a Skin Cleanser is to put a small amount of cleanser onto dampened finger tips and massage in small, upward and outward circular movements all over the face and neck.
3) After following this cleansing procedure, rinse the skin with warm water and pat the skin dry gently. Try not to rub the face with a towel as this may damage the skin.
4) It is best to use a Cleanser once at night and once in the morning, especially with oily skin which can build-up a layer of perspiration and oil overnight. If make-up is worn during the day, better results may be achieved by using two applications of the Cleanser to help ensure a clean skin surface.
5) Exfoliants can be used one to three times a week depending on the type and condition of the skin. Ask your Pharmacist for advice.
6) Ask your Pharmacist or Pharmacy Beauty Consultant for advice about the different Skin Cleansers available and the most suitable type for your skin.

NOTES

Compiled by Miss Sue Freeborn, Dip BTh, Dip H Med, Principal of the College of Natural Beauty, Brisbane, Queensland.

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