By the time you get into your 30s you may be seeing a very different set of 'issues' to the previous decade. From sunspots to fine lines and even a shift in skin texture and skin type. And without sounding too much like a Debbie Downer, the skin simply doesn't repair itself as quickly or as effectively past a certain age.
So if there was ever a time to care about what you put onto your skin it's now! The first step and something that can have a huge impact on how the skin feels, looks and ages is cleansing. Not simply removing makeup before bed but effectively cleansing to keep it clean, hydrated and youthful. Below I have cleanser recommendations for all different skin needs for both morning and evening cleansing ideal for anyone in their 30s and beyond.
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Morning Cleansers
Before stepping into a few solid A.M cleansers I first thought it important to touch upon what you should be looking for in a water-based or light oil cleanser. If you think it's all about how well a cleanser foams, then scrap that idea. Yes, there are a few okay foaming cleansing out there but they are truly few and far between with most being too high a pH for the skin and contain the basic and rubbish foaming agent that is sodium lauryl sulphate. Instead, you are looking for something that ideally states that it's ph-balanced and SLS-free (by looking at the ingredients list you will soon spot if it's there as it will be near to aqua).
Basically, you are looking for a simple cleanser that will cleanser away any excess oil and pep up the skin so step away from anything that feels stripping or that foams on contact with water!
Pixi Glow Tonic Cleansing Gel (£18)
Containing Pixi's main cult ingredient; Glycolic Acid this is a lovely clear gel that aims to remove impurities without stripping the skin, while also energizing and smoothing. Only a little of the lightweight gel is needed over damp skin, melting into the skin as you massage it feeling more like water than anything else. No stickiness, lathering, nothing! Then on rinsing your face you will instantly notice how your skin feels clean, soft and smooth.
If you want to dip your toes into exfoliating acids with a Glycolic Acid based cleanser rather than topically applying a toner then this is a perfect first skincare item to do that with. This is also perfect for anyone with textural issues as they reach their 30's as while it won't do wonders it will smooth things out a little. A really nice gentle AHA-based cleanser here from a well-loved skincare brand.
ARK Skincare Age Defend Conditioning Cleanser (£25)
If with age your skin has become a little more prone to being dry, red or sensitive then Ark's Age Defend Conditioner Cleanser truly is a good egg that will cleanse the skin effectively while keeping it nourished, happy and balanced.
This is a wonderful gel cleanser with a subtle citrus herbal scent that again doesn't lather as you massage it over the face but feels silky and nourishing instead. On rinsing off the cleanser, you will notice that your skin is just as hydrate and moisture-filled as it was prior, yet supple feeling and perfectly clean. When my skin is feeling out of sorts due to hormones or its feeling dry in areas I've been relying on this cleanser alone and I simply swear by it!
You can receive an amazing 20% your first order when you sign up to the newsletter on the Ark website as well!
Nuxe Micellar Cleansing Oil (£10.33)
Lastly, a delicate rose-scented french cleansing oil that glides over dry skin before turning into a milky emulsion when water is added to lift makeup, excess oil and daily grime. This pampering oil feels quite the treat for skin especially in the winter months as it gently cleanses without any drying effect or tightness after using. In a nutshell, this cleanser oil feels kind to the skin and is perfect for those with a drier or dehydrated skin type.
Evening Cleansers
Onto evening cleansers, which truly is the key step to your skincare routine. Why? Because this is where you are effectively removing all makeup and general grime/oil buildup from the skin at the end of the day which is the first step to keeping the skin looking its best for longer.
Ideally, you want to cleanser twice (double cleanse) to ensure all makeup is removed; first with an oil-based cleanser (see below for recommendations) to break down and remove stubborn makeup, SPF and sebum from the skin. Following with a gentle water-based cleanser to ensure all makeup is removed but also to ensure no remnants of the heavier oil-based cleanser remain. This is where you can use your morning cleanser again. However, if you simply don't have the time or energy to double cleanse, it's best to opt for an oil-based cleanser every time using a flannel, muslin cloth or facial sponge to remove it thoroughly.
The Body Shop Camomile Sumptuous Cleansing Butter (£10)
Any kind of oil-based balm cleanser that instantly melts away makeup and smooshes it around your face is a good cleanser and The Body Shop Cleansing Butter is the perfect one for turning your eye makeup into what looks more like a burglar mask in seconds.
It's hard to believe this rich silky feeling butter that melts down to an oil with the warmth of your fingertips is only £10 but it is and that's why it's such a best selling product for The Body Shop. Suitable for sensitive skin and even contact lens wearer's this is an oil-based cleanser that doesn't feel too light or too heavy, perfectly cleansing away makeup and waterproof mascara without leaving the eyes cloudy or stingy. As it's a balm/butter it also lasts a long time making it excellent value for money!
Oskia Renaissance Cleansing Gel (£33)
If you are looking for the nourishment and makeup dissolving powers of a balm but in a lighter formula so that it's not in a pot along with a tonne of skincare benefits then this is truly the cleanser to be picking up.
This delicate but effective gel to oil cleanser is truly one of the best, melting away all makeup in a single pump to leave the skin bright, smooth and healthy-feeling. It also contains a cocktail of amazing ingredients to help clear out pores while brightening and even resurfacing the skin a little. Whenever I continuously use this cleanser, not only do I enjoy the texture and how well it removes makeup but that it really does brighten and improve my skin.
Emma Hardie Moringa Cleansing Balm (£47)
If your skin is in need of some TLC or you love to pamper your skin then Emma Hardie Moringa Cleansing Balm is truly the best cleanser money can buy. This luxury deep cleansing balm melts over the skin turning into a silky oil that lifts away makeup and grime with ease leaving the complexion completely clean and soothed.
For an extra nourishing step, I ditch the muslin cloth that it comes with and use a good fluffy flannel (Tesco Finest are the best!) to remove the cleanser with and just this simple swap makes for the best cleansing experience. A beautifully nourishing and calming cleansing balm.
If like me, you are 30+ I'd love to know if you have changed up your cleansing routine and products with age, and if so which cleansers do you prefer now.
Fee xo.
