I'm going to make this into a series of posts as one long post might be overbearing to read since I use a variety of products for each category. We will start with cleansers. To be honest, I've never found a cleanser that I love that works and does not break me out. I know that is crazy. But, it's true. I've loved a few in the past but they eventually broke me out or caused a reaction. Or, the cleanser works but I just don't like it. So, finding a holy grail cleanser has not happened yet. However, the ones in my current line up are liked, work well and don't cause reactions or break outs, so I'm just going to have to be satisfied with liking my cleansers.
Now on to the products: Makeup removing:
I don't typically wear makeup every day. On those days that I wear it, I use a makeup cleansing oil to remove and double cleanse. My current oil is Josie Maran Argan Cleansing Oil. I really like this as it is gentle and contains all natural ingredients. My criteria for cleansing oil/cleanser is that is does not contain mineral oil/parabens/fragrance, and this one fits the bill. It cleanses well even when I use waterproof mascara. As well, it's free from skin nasties such as parabens, triclosan, and sulfates. The only downside is the price. It's on the expensive side at $32/6oz. I may look for a less expensive alternative after this is gone, but for now it's a good choice.
I also keep a bottle of micellar water to remove fall out and mistakes with eye makeup. Currently, I have a huge bottle of Bioderma for that purpose. I will probably not repurchase this one. It's challenging to purchase in the US, and I don't feel like I need a $30 bottle of eye makeup corrector. I originally bought this as a makeup remover, but it fails miserably for me in that aspect and causes break outs. So, I'm using it up and will purchase a more economical version when needed.
Cleansers:
Mad Hippie Cream Cleanser
Michael Todd Honey and Oat Gentle Deep Pore Cleanser
FAB Face Cleanser
I've really enjoyed Mad Hippie on no makeup days and as a morning cleanse. It's healthy for my skin and really cleanses without drying out skin. I will buy another once this is gone as it meets all the criteria I have for cleanser i.e. all natural, free from, no added fragrance, etc.
I use Michael Todd cleanser at night. It's really moisturizing and nurturing to the skin. It cleans well and does not dry out my face. This would work for all skin types in my opinion. I purchased this in the Sensitive Skin regime when I had a coupon, so I really didn't pay much for it. I do like it enough to repurchase alone and would pay full price. However, there are always coupon codes to reduce pricing. I wouldn't purchase the regime personally as only 2/6 products worked for me.
First Aid Beauty Face Cleanser:
I received this in a sample Sephora VIB bag. I like it to change up with my nightly cleanser. It's very creamy and does a good job. It is easily accessible at Sephora. That's a plus,as I have to order the others online. But, of the three it's my least favorite, so I probably won't purchase the full size. If you are looking for a gently hydrating cleanser that has good ingredients, I would recommend trying it out.
To help with cleansing, I use soft natural organic bamboo cloths. I find these are as necessary as the cleanser. These help to remove makeup and slightly exfoliate sensitive skin. I stopped using regular wash cloths as I found they were too rough for my skin. These cause no irritation at all and do not disturb the sensitive layer of skin when cleansing. I purchased mine from this seller on Etsy, but I'm sure these are available in stores or online. I like shopping and supporting Etsy and Paypal is an option. Plus, these wash up like new with each use and can be used indefinitely.
And, that's my current rotation of facial cleansers. Do you use any of these? Do you have a holy grail that you repurchase?
* Links provided for your convenience. I've purchased all items with my own money. No compensation received as this is my own personal review. *