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How to Find the Best Skin Cleansers

By Lauren Hobbes
Jan 21, 2009
The very first step in any daily skin care regimen is cleansing skin. Twice each day, you should follow this step, followed by the application of a good product to protect and prevent against signs of aging. And, at least once a month you should apply a deep cleansing mask for added benefit. This will help with extra exfoliation and cellular turnover for a brighter complexion. There are certain things to look for in the best skin cleansers. You'll want to avoid harsh products that can be over drying and even contain harmful ingredients.

The bottom line is that the goal of cleansing is to remove dirt, grime and bacteria, as well as to gently exfoliate. But, the last thing you want to do is strip all the oils and protective surface away. You want deep cleaning for best results, but effective cleansing will leave a smooth, soft, healthy feeling, and not a dry and tight surface.

There are many effective over-the-counter brands available, but a common problem with many of them is that they contain ingredients that I don't want near my face or body. Often, less expensive ingredients are used by companies simply for more profit, not because the ingredients are the best available. I would vastly prefer using a natural ingredient that is not only safe, but proven to be effective. This all comes down to an understanding of the ingredients inside.

Good and Bad Ingredients in Skin Cleansers

First, you'll want to avoid sodium laurel sulfate. Sadly, this is one of the most commonly used cleansing ingredients in shampoo as well as cleansers. It has been linked in studies that show that at best it is an irritant, and at worst could potentially be linked to health issues and even cancer. If you are using products containing this ingredient (most all of us are), be sure to rinse thoroughly to remove all traces of it once you are done!

Also avoid anything with isopropyl alcohol, lanolin, petroleum and mineral oil. And try to avoid those cool products that heat up when you use them. These can be very irritating to sensitive skin. Just read the ingredients label. If you cannot pronounce it and it sounds like a chemical, it probably isn't so great to put on your body.

Instead look for products containing these healthful, natural ingredients:

Kaolin Clay absorbs oil and pulls dirt and grime out of your pores. It also has natural disinfectant properties, which help to calm inflammation and soothe irritation.

Bentone Gel is made from a special clay, mixed with emollients, that works with kaolin to boost the cleansing properties.

Natural Moisturizers counteract the drying effects of cleansing. Look for added moisturizing ingredients like macadamia oil and natural shea butter.

Allantoin is another good ingredient that restores and soothes inflammation. This natural compound is found in several plants.

The best skin cleansers use these wonderful natural ingredients to give you a healthy, fresh complexion. Don't forget to cleanse daily, and also choose a good deep cleansing mask to give that added boost of brightness once a month or so.
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