By Jill O'Donoghue from Killarney Toning and Beauty Studio 

It might sound simple but double cleansing is a step that is often skipped, or rushed over. When done correctly it is the start of the anti-ageing process. Think of it, you wouldn't build a house if you rushed the foundations. So why would you put the best moisturiser on unprepared skin.

.

It is so important to remove the build-up on your skin, such as dirt, oil, pollution etc. During the day the skin on your face is covered with bacteria, pollutants, viruses and old dead skin cells. Daily cleansing these impurities helps give the face a fresh look. Without correct daily cleansing your skin will be covered with a thick layer of dirt and grime which makes it difficult for other products to penetrate the skin properly.

You are also boosting hydration by cleansing - along with a good moisturiser of course. It's an important factor in maintaining a proper level of hydration. Dehydrated skin looks and feels rough, wrinkled and aged. Cleansing helps to maintain the PH levels of the skin, enabling water and product retention.

We have tiny glands under the skin that produce oil called sebum to protect the skin from the outside world. The oil is necessary to act as a barrier to prevent the penetration of bacteria or other harmful agents. Proper cleansing clears the pores of debris to prevent build up allowing the natural oils reach the surface without any blockages, thus preventing any breakouts. This is why regular facials are important to help maintain healthy hydrated skin.

So, we know why we need to double cleanse but do we know how? Or, even if you know what to do, are you doing it correctly? Double cleansing simply involves using two types of cleansers, one right after the other. Start with the oil base cleanser, followed by the water-based cleanser. The first cleanser draws out the oil-based impurities, such as SPF, make-up and pollutants while the second cleanser gets rid of water-based debris such as sweat and dirt.

To apply correctly it's important to spend time working it into the skin taking extra care around the creases of the nose and chin, allowing the product enough time on the skin to get to work. For more information on the right products call Jill on 064 6632966.