What's a pre cleanse?

Honesty, the first thing that came to my mind the first time I heard this phrase was "Spray

and Wash" And just recently, after I read an article about pre-cleansing, there were actually some similarities. Just as "Spay and Wash" gets rid of the stubborn stains regular detergent wont, pre-cleansing is the first step in breaking down and dissolving stubborn makeup, sunscreen and environmental pollutants our everyday cleansers can't wash away. Especially now, during the summer. Summertime and being in the sun present unique cleansing challenges. Extra sunscreen, sweat, and increased oil production can lead to clogged pores and dull skin. It was the reference to sunscreen and sweat that really caught my attention, as I had just finished four games of pickleball in the hot sun, making me a prime candidate for a pre-cleanse! Truth be told, I have been pre cleaning for a long time but never truly knew all the benefits.

So, what should you use in a pre-cleanse? And why is it necessary? Ordinary daily cleansers may not be enough to get all these extra impurities off our skin. What does work is an oil cleanser as they are designed to dissolve impurities (like sunscreens and makeup) which are not always fully removed by just a standard cleanser. Oil based cleansers break down makeup, sunscreen, and excess sebum, removing these stubborn products by dissolving them, ensuring your skin is thoroughly clean. Additionally, pre-cleansing can improve your skin’s texture and clarity. By removing impurities more effectively, your skin is less prone to breakouts. So, pre-cleansing with oil is a game-changer and this is how you can incorporate it into your summer skincare evening routine for that healthy, glowing complexion.

1. Apply your oil cleaner on dry skin Massage in using gentle circular motions, focusing on areas with heavy makeup or sunscreen. Wipe away with a warm, damp washcloth.

2. Now ready for the second cleanse, use whatever cleanser you normally use, whether it's a milky gentle cleanser or one with exfoliating properties.
   

This extra step takes literally a couple of minutes but by incorporating oil pre-cleansing into your summer skincare routine and following up with your regular cleanser, you’ll ensure that your skin stays clean, clear, and glowing! And you may find out that you like it so much as I do, that you incorporate it into your nightly routine year-round!

Now what oil cleansers to use? Here are a couple I personally use plus a couple of others that are highly recommended.

Shu Uemura Japan Shu Uemura A/O Youth Glow Cleansing Oil. I have used Shu Uemura cleansing oils for years. They are probably the best you can get. They're a little on the pricey side but you don't need a lot. This one is refreshing and lightweight and does the trick.

Another oil from Shu Uemura is Shu Uemura Ultime 8 Sublime Beauty Cleansing Oil. Also, a great choice and another one I have personally used. There's a reason Japanese women have such beautiful skin:)

TATCHA Pure One Step Camellia Cleansing Oil is another great choice. It has great reviews and one that I am going to try. I have used other products in this line (like their flawless makeup primer for one) and have loved all of them. Plus, the reviews on this are "glowing" so it's already in my shopping cart!

DHC Deep Cleansing Oil has rave reviews. And its price point is definitely something to take note of. You'll notice as you read reviews on all of these oils that they are great for all skin types, dry, combination and yes, even oily!

La Roche-Posay NEW Lipikar AP+ Gentle Foaming Cleansing Oil is a brand we all know and love. It too has a great price point, and the reviews are outstanding. Definitely one to try out.

Bioderma - Atoderm - Cleansing Oil. Another trusted name with lots of positive reviews, and recommendations for sensitive skin. At a very affordable price point, it's worth a second look.

Biossance Squalane + Antioxidant Cleansing Oil. People love the fragrance and the weight of this oil. Great reviews, very affordable and checks all the boxes in getting the job done.

People who use Dermalogica Precleanse Oil Cleanser absolutely love it! It does the job and it's priced right. Reviews from customers say it's their "go to" for a pre cleanse. Another choice to consider.

So, there you have it. Many great choices out there. And they all accomplished the same thing. They get your skin clean, free of pollutants and all that unwanted "stuff" so that your complexion is clean and glowing. And isn't that what we all want to achieve, literally, "at the end of the day"?

LIz ❤️

(Any links in this post are affiliate links which I may be given a small compensation for if they are purchased through the link)