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I used to think cleansing wasn’t a big deal. I’d plop into bed without worrying about washing my face if I happened to get home late and tired, feeling like I just couldn’t do it without getting soap in my eyes. This happened especially in my twenties. Now I realize it’s important to not only remove makeup and clean out those pores, but cleansing can add additional benefits to your skin. Stay tuned for five routines that have benefits beyond getting your skin clean.
THE KONJAC SPONGE
The Konjac sponge is an under-appreciated tool that I love. It is made from a natural material that comes from the root of the Konjac plant which grows in Asia. It’s porous and absorbs water while being just rough enough for exfoliating. It can be used for weeks before you replace it. There’s something about its ability to scrub very gently that can’t be duplicated by any other “gadget” I’ve found. I use it in the morning with just water, and in the evening when I’m cleansing. It leaves my skin softer than ever.
To use: Run warm water on your skin and add cleanser of your choice.
Wet the konjac sponge with warm water until pliable and lightly brush over the surface of your skin, massaging your face with the cleanser.
Of note: You cannot harm your skin with the gentle konjac sponge. Use as much or as little pressure as feels good.
THE WONDERCLOTH
For removing eye makeup and giving skin a perfect rinse, there’s nothing like the Wondercloth. I discovered it years ago in the book The Truth About Beauty by Kat James. It’s made from a combination of plant pulp and cotton fibers that absorbs well but also rinses clean so easily. Soft on the skin while removing everything, you can use it after your konjac sponge scrub or on its own with cleanser.
To use: Wet face and cloth with warm/hot water. Trap a puddle of water in the cloth, cupping it in your palms; gently rinse over eyelashes, lids and face. Follow up by passing the cloth over the surface of your skin, for an exfoliating treat. It feels good and is easier on the skin than a washcloth. It rinses clean so you can use it for several days before you have to wash it. Throw it in the washing machine with your other laundry when it needs cleaning.
Of note: I like to use it on my throat and chest as well. It is so much easier to rinse these areas with the Wondercloth than to splash water everywhere.
SWEET ALMOND OIL
For a Triple Cleanse, Sweet Almond Oil can’t be beat. It’s full of antioxidants A and E, which provide a moisture barrier and protect skin from cell damage. In addition, this oil gives skin a sheen like no other. It rinses clean but leaves just a trace to impart a beautiful glow.
To use: Rinse face with a warm washcloth until skin is well dampened. Put about three tablespoons almond oil in your palm and press palms together, massaging gently into face to loosen makeup.
Next apply your favorite gentle foaming or milk cleanser. (I like Cetaphil Daily Facial Cleanser because it never strips the skin but cleans effectively. I highly recommend not using a drying cleanser at this point because you’ll take away from the benefits of the oil.) Rinse off all traces of cleanser.
Finish by applying a second very thin coat of almond oil and your skin is refreshed and ready for bed. If you like to cleanse in the morning, you can repeat these steps without the foaming cleanser.
Of note: it’s important to choose “sweet” almond oil as opposed to “bitter” because they come from two different plant species and the bitter is not healthy to ingest.
SALT SCRUB WITH ESSENTIAL OILS
For those without sensitive skin, this salt scrub offers great exfoliation and blood flow. The addition of essential oils increases circulation in the skin and brings a healthy glow. Frankincense has been shown to have potent anti-inflammatory properties, as well as to increase healing in damaged skin. I love its earthy scent, and with the addition of eucalyptus, this is an aromatherapy treat.
To prepare: in a small bowl add three tablespoons salt, one tablespoon sweet almond oil, 4 drops essential oil of frankincense, and 2 drops essential oil of eucalyptus. Mix well.
To use: Wet skin with warm/hot water. Press a spoonful of mixture in your palms and very gently massage the face in a circular motion. Do not over-scrub, especially on the cheeks. Rinse gently with warm water. Do not follow up with any other cleanser. Apply a light facial mist, and moisturizer if desired.
Of note: I recommend doing this scrub a maximum of once a week.
For a similar experience: Try Liz Earle Cleanse and Polish Hot Cloth Cleanser.
STRAWBERRIES
Strawberries contain Ellagic Acid, which is a strong phytochemical that will fight free radical damage to your cells. Known to whiten dark spots on the skin, Ellagic acid is also found in pomegranates and cranberries. The addition of myrrh and thyme essential oils to this formula brings back some overall color to the skin that is reduced by the whitening effect of the acid.
To prepare: Rinse two ripe strawberries, slice in half and place in microwaveable mug. Microwave for approximately 1 & ½ – 2 minutes, or until the red juice dehydrates into a dark red slippery substance.
To use: Rinse skin with warm water, then apply the strawberry “paste” all over face, throat and chest. Your skin should look sunburned. Let sit until dry, about 15 minutes. Finish by rinsing face with warm water, using the Wondercloth to remove all traces of strawberry. Next mix two drops of thyme and myrrh essential oils, massage between palms and then press into the face, throat, and chest. Let sit overnight.
Of note: Taken internally through foods, Ellagic acid has been shown to increase a specific healthy bacterium in the gut responsible for reducing cancerous cells.
This preparation can be used every night as a substitute for a more traditional cleansing routine.
Do you have any unique methods for cleansing your skin? Share Below!
For more on effective skincare, see How to Increase Circulation in Your Skin.
2 thoughts on “5 CLEANSING METHODS TO GET YOU GLOWING (You might be surprised…)”
hi do you have another oil you like besides sweet almond oil for that step?
Hi Tess – yes I also like Sesame Oil for cleansing and moisturizing:-))