Back in the day, there was one unifying factor that tied us together as humans: St. Ives Apricot Scrub. For years, every single one of us spent our evenings sanding down the six outermost layers of skin with it. What a nice thing to have shared! I, for one, look back at those days fondly. Let me tell you though, the time has never been so ripe for change. Maybe the scrub worked for you—maybe it still does. For better or for worse, never has a single product elicited such fervent responses from the expanses of internet skin enthusiasts. Regardless, I’ve got some new suggestions for you!
First, know that you are unique and special and precious. You are literal gold. You are a diamond. You are made of rubies. You are your own gem of choice, but the answer is the same either way—your face needs what it needs. Not what everybody else’s face needs. Your face might also need something different at night than it does in the morning. Here is what you should wash it with if...
...you end the day feeling greasy
Try Aesop In Two Minds Facial Cleanser. It was formulated specifically for combination skin, so it isn't drying or stripping. Leaves your skin soft but matte. In other words, it doesn't matter why you were feeling oily (pizza! period! just because!), because after this, you won't be.
...you’re hungover
Glossier Milky Jelly feels the way a giant smoothie from Juice Generation does the morning after a long night of drinking. It's the perfect texture for massaging the puffiness out from your face. Watch your skin soak in the hydration and feel immediately better. Rose scent might help the nausea, too. You'll feel better but you will actually look visibly better, too.
...you’re a little bit sensitive
Avène Extremely Gentle Cleanser Lotion is your match! Not only is it gentle, it is Extremely Gentle. Won't cause any reactions or irritations, and helps a little bit with redness too. Use it all the time. Still gets ya clean, but won't hurt any feelings along the way.
...you’re drier than the Mojave Desert
Add Elemis Rehydrating Rosepetal Cleanser to your cart. To use it is a pleasant experience—one that will keep your skin fresh and plump for hours on end. No scaling or tight feeling or immediate need for a glass of cold water. Yes, keep drinking water, but this guy will take care of the rest.
...you're sick of the cold
de Mamiel's Restorative Cleansing Balm is going to make you feel better. The texture is super easy to work with and feels great on the skin. The oils provide some protection from leftover winter stuff like pollution and cold winds. Plus it smells incredible. Will get you through the next month or so for sure.
...you’re new to this
No need to fully commit. Garnier Micellar Water is an almost flawless dupe for Bioderma, and makes for a low-commitment, easy-to-use cleanser that gets everything you don't want on your face off of it. Just a swipe of a cotton pad and you're set.
—Anna Jube
Photo via ITG.
