How to Cleanse Your Way to Clear Skin

Plus, my skin struggles and my top 10 favourite cleansers.

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When I was a teenager, I had blemish free skin most of the time, which I'll admit I took for granted. Unfortunately, as I've discovered, it's not just the young ones that are prone to red spots. I've struggled with persistently mild to moderate breakouts for the last couple of years, which has really played hugely on my confidence.

In saying that though, the past six months my skin has been better than it has in a long time with fewer breakouts, which even then have been far milder, and moments where it has been completely clear. While I know I have a way to go to completely flawless skin month-round, my skincare has played a monumental role in getting it back to how it is now and moving forward.

I know I'm not the only one who has these skin issues, with countless girlfriends who struggle with their skin, as well as so many of you as I've discovered whenever I mention my own experience here on Lion in the Wild. I mention this as I really want to share with you some tips and tricks to get your skin as good as it can be (besides the whole you are what you eat and drink thing). Honestly, one of the most important steps in my daily skincare regime is cleansing, which I believe is almost solely responsible for my clearer skin.

Keep scrolling down for my cleansing tips and my current favourite cleansing products.
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MY TOP CLEANSING TIPS AND TRICKS:

Tip #1: Cleanse in both the AM and the PM (when you wake up and before you go to sleep).

Tip #2: If you've worn makeup, sunscreen or have particularly dirty skin, make sure to cleanse twice before bed that day. You may even want to use two different cleansers; an oil-based cleanser that will remove any stubborn makeup and perhaps a soothing lotion - whatever floats your boat!

Tip #3: Most cleansers work best if they're applied to dry skin, so make sure you read the instructions if you're using a new product before you begin.

Tip #4: Use a fresh facial cloth, wet with warm water, to wipe away the cleanser. This will ensure that every little bit has been removed, but you can always splash your face with warm water afterwards as well. Oh, and don't forget that you shouldn't ever re-use a cloth (which actually reminds me that I need to go buy new ones). If I don't have any clean ones, I'll use a couple of damp cotton pads.

Tip #5: Take your time when it comes to cleansing. It's such an important step and really cannot be rushed. I have included a product below that is for those who are in a rush in the morning, but it's not recommended to use all the time. Slow down and make sure you're properly cleaning your face. The extra time will pay off.
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MY TOP 10 FAVOURITE CLEANERS:

Firstly, I wanted to introduce you to the cleanser that seemingly reduced and calmed my breakouts as soon as I begun using it late last year; the Lush 9 to 5 Cleansing Lotion. I'd never used a milk cleanser previously and I was skeptical as it didn't foam up (and didn't feel like it was doing its job), but as I've discovered, a cleansing lotion often does it job even better than anything that foams. My skin felt moisturised and hadn't looked better in a quite some time. As you can tell my the photo above, I've pretty much completely run out of it, so I'll definitely be re-ordering it ASAP.

Speaking of lotion cleansers, the Dermalogica Essential Cleansing Solution is another great option if you're prone to breakouts. While I find that some Dermalogica products are a little to harsh on my skin, this creamy cleanser is without a doubt on elf my favourites. It's gentle, moisturising and lifts all impurities.

If you're a little time sensitive and prefer a deeper cleanse, then I'd recommend the Jurlique Clarifying Deep Cleansing Gel, which also doubles as an exfoliant. I also wanted to include the Jurlique Herbal Recovery Antioxidant Cleansing Mousse, as Jurlique makes the most incredible natural products. While I usually avoid anything that foams due to my sometimes problematic skin, this Cleansing Mousse contains natural antioxidants. I have found that my skin can feel quite dry after using it though, so I'd definitely use a rich serum and moisturiser afterwards.

The Clinique Liquid Facial Soap was actually the first cleanser I ever splurged on (apart from your typical supermarket brands) and continuously go back to. Don't be put off by the word 'Soap', as it has never left my skin feeling uncomfortably tight or dry.

The Body Shop Camomile Silky Cleansing Oil not only easily lifts waterproof makeup, but deeply cleans the skin. I'll often use this one to remove my makeup and then a creamy lotion cleanser afterwards if I've had a long day and feel a bit gross (you know what I mean). Again, don't be put off by the fact that it is an oil - this is for all skin types, whether you have dry, oily or combination skin.

I was first attracted to the Arcona White Tea Purifying Cleanser (exclusive to Sephora Australia) due to its amazing list of ingredients like white and green teas, cranberry enzymes, vitamin E and shea butters. Who wouldn't swoon for that? I'm not going to lie either, this cleanser smells like a tub of cranberry jam - YUM!

If you're after an affordable drugstore alternative, the Neutrogena Extra Gentle Cleanser is another non-foaming cleanser that is great for sensitive and problematic skin. One thing I have to mention about this one is how soft and smooth my skin feels after using it - a definite pro!

The Ole Hendriksen Pure Truth Melting Cleanser (exclusive to Sephora Australia) is actually what I'm using at the moment and falling head-over-heels for. It ticks every box for me - the citrus fragrance, the packaging, the ingredients and, yes, the outcome. While it applies as a gel, it turns into an oil as you gently massage it into the skin, which both removes stubborn makeup and day-to-day grime. It feels amazing, both during application and afterwards, and a little goes a long way. Truth be told, it's a must-try skincare product.

Finally, I also included the Ole Hendriksen Grease Relief Cleansing Cloths (exclusive to Sephora Australia) as they're a great alternative if you're really rushed in the morning (we're all guilty of pressing the snooze button one too many times). With a textured side as well, it also helps to gently exfoliate as well. While I wouldn't use these all the time, something is better than nothing. Plus, they'll be great to have during a long haul flight.
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SHOP MY FAVOURITE CLEANSERS:

Let me know if you have a cleanser that you swear by in the comments below!