Proper and thorough facial cleansing is the foundation of every skincare routine. This is where we remove SPF, makeup, excess sebum, and impurities that accumulate on the surface of the skin during the day. If this step is not done properly, product residue and impurities can reduce the effectiveness of further care and lead to clogged pores and the appearance of imperfections. This is where we come to the question of what to choose: micellar solution, balm, or oil?
A quick first cleansing step with powerful micelles
Micellar solutions are often the first choice when we want to quickly and easily remove impurities, but their effectiveness does not lie only in practicality. The main ingredients of micellar solutions and waters are micelles, or molecular clusters that attract oil on the one hand and repel water on the other. They attract and bind oil, impurities, SPF and makeup, thus enabling their removal without aggressive rubbing and without disrupting the skin barrier. Although they are suitable for all skin types, micellar solutions are particularly suitable for combination and oily skin, more so than oils and emulsions. There are two in the Immortelle natural collection, namely Micellar Solution Immortelle and Micellar Solution 2in1 Immortelle, which combines the action of powerful micelles and nourishing sesame oil. In addition, there is also Micellar Solution Green Coffee , in which green coffee extract strengthens the skin's natural moisture in the long term, restores its natural balance and refreshes the complexion.
Rich balm texture without classic oils
Cleansing balms are the ideal first step in cleansing and a routine that we really want to enjoy. Gentle face massage not only dissolves impurities, but also relieves puffiness and promotes better circulation. The rich texture easily dissolves SPF, makeup and accumulated impurities, and when in contact with water, it turns into a milky emulsion. It does not leave a heavy feeling or oily film on the skin. The specificity and specialness of Professional Microbalm is reflected in the unique minimalist formulation that does not contain classic oils. Oils that are common for this type of product, such as coconut or olive oil, can have a higher comedogenic potential and can cause the appearance of comedones, clogged pores or inflammatory acne on certain skin types. Microbalm is based on a majority of caprylic triglycerides, which are stable, inert and have a low potential for skin irritation, and is enriched with Centella asiatica plant extract, green tea wax and vitamin E for soothing and caring. For the above reasons, the balm is the ideal first step for all skin types, especially dry skin.
Oil dissolves oil (and makeup and SPF residue)
Oil as a first step in cleansing is based on a simple but extremely effective principle: oil dissolves oil. Since SPF, makeup and sebum are lipophilic, oil products can remove them quickly and gently, without the need for aggressive rubbing of the skin. Cleansing oils and emulsions are formulated to be easily rinsed off and do not leave a greasy film, but emulsify in contact with water (turn into milk). Professional Microemulsion is a light, airy medium-density oil based mainly on caprylic triglycerides and enriched with squalane and hemp oil for care, as well as licorice extract and vitamin E for anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. This makes it a suitable first step even for combination to oily skin.
Don't forget to double cleanse
Better known as double cleansing or the DC method, this skincare term refers to a two-step cleansing process, where the first step cleanses oil-soluble impurities, while the second step removes water-soluble impurities. The previously mentioned micellar solutions, balms and oils are ideal for the first step, while gels and foams are designed as the second cleansing step. The micellar solution is applied with a cotton pad or cloth, and the Microemulsion or Microbalm is massaged directly onto dry skin with dry hands, then a little water is added and rinsed off. This is followed by a second cleansing step with a water-based product. Amino gel or Amino foam is applied to a damp face, massaged in, and rinsed off with water. After that, the skin is thoroughly cleansed and ready for further care steps. We wrote about the key facts of the DC method here.
When the DC method is not necessary
There are situations where double cleansing is not necessary. If your morning routine does not include makeup and SPF (although UV protection is recommended), a gentle gel and foam cleanser in the evening may be sufficient. As always in skincare, it is important to adapt your routine to your skin's actual needs, rather than blindly following trends.
