There isn't much Caroline Parker of Dermalogica doesn't know about skin, so in the wake of the exciting new launch of the brands PreCleanse Balm. Sarah Simpson gets the low down on why this balm needs to be in our lives.
Caroline Parker, head of education at Dermalogica.
What makes this new launch such standout for the brand?
PreCleanse Balm is giving consumers options. Cleansing is such a critical step in skin health and Dermalogica has always advocated the double cleanse (cleansing twice). The combination of environmental pollutants and the types of long lasting makeup and sunscreen we like to use means it has become harder to achieve really clean skin. PreCleanse has been a Dermalogica hero for more than 10 years and we are committed to the first cleanse being an oil, as it is the best medium to lift the debris off the skin. Now PreCleanse Balm, which changes from a balm-to-oil on contact with the skin, offers another option with more nourishing ingredients suited to normal to dry skins.
What are the main benefits in pre-cleansing?
Using a cleansing oil as your step zero lifts off oil-based debris like makeup, SPF and oil without disrupting barrier lipids that keep moisture in our skin. Therefore you are able to remove the bulk of the debris from your skin by pre-cleansing, and then come in with a skin targeted cleanser, to finish cleaning your skin and start treating your skin conditions.
Is it possible to over cleanse? Now that this is step zero, what is your advice to ensure people don’t overdo their skincare regime?
Yes, it is possible to over cleanse and this can leave your skin feeling tight and uncomfortable. Using an oil for the first cleanse will reduce the risk of over cleansing as it will actually support the natural lipids we have in our skin rather than strip them off, your second cleanse can then be more targeted to the needs of your skin for example calming or nourishing.
How does someone know which PreCleanse to use?
Both PreCleanse, $69 and PreCleanse Balm, $75 can be used by all skins but because the PreCleanse Balm has more rich and nourishing ingredients is going to be ideal for a normal to dry skin. I would definitely recommend though that everyone has the PreCleanse Balm for travel as its more solid form reduces any risk of it leaking - which makes it ideal for travel.
Any advice on how to apply the PreCleanse Balm?
It’s personal preference, if you prefer to use your fingers to massage PreCleanse Balm over your skin then that’s fine, just remember to use upward circles through oilier parts of your face (usually the T zone), that way you are going to clean the pores more effectively. If you prefer a deeper cleansing action, then use a cleansing mitt to massage the balm over your skin, which has a mild exfoliating action, If you are wearing heavier makeup or have been in a dirtier environment the mitt will also be a good addition any routine.
Dermalogica PreCleanse Balm, from $25 - $75.