Cleansers & Face Wash

Cleansing is the step people spend the least on and get wrong the most often. A face wash that leaves your skin tight and squeaky has not cleaned it better — it has stripped the barrier that keeps moisture in and irritation out.

Why double cleanse

If you wear sunscreen daily — and in Kenya you should — a water-based face wash alone will not fully remove it. Water-resistant SPF and long-wear makeup are designed not to rinse off. Oil dissolves oil, which is why the first step at night should be a balm or oil cleanser, followed by your gel cleanser.

Unremoved sunscreen sitting in your pores overnight is a genuine and under-discussed cause of congestion and breakouts. Two-step cleansing at night solves it.

Your cleansing routine

  • Morning: gel cleanser only. Your skin has been on a clean pillow, not out in the city.
  • Night: cleansing balm first on dry skin to melt off SPF and makeup, then gel cleanser on damp skin.
  • Water temperature: lukewarm. Hot water strips lipids.
  • Drying: pat, never rub, and apply your serum while skin is still slightly damp.