Over the years I have tried a myriad of fancy moisturisers, serums and supposed “miracle” treatments. For the most part I have been disappointed with the results, in fact, nothing made a “real” difference to the condition of my epidermis until I learnt how to cleanse it properly (I say properly, as with all these posts what I mean is a method that works for me.)

My method is simple – I always double cleanse, first with damp cotton pads soaked in my potion of choice and on the second go I use a warm flannel or muslin cloth for removal, this process sloughs away those pesky dead skin cells and gives you more glow than any wonder cream I’ve ever used. True story.

I have fair reactive skin, as I’ve gotten older it has not improved, in some respects my intolerance to products has increased. And although there are times when I simply can’t resist the latest skincare launch by a high profile brand (but it says it will make me line free in 4 weeks with the special plant derived photosynthsised molecules !…) I do endeavour to stick to what I know.

I actually rotate a variety of cleansers dependent on the weather, how much make-up I’ve been wearing and how my mug seems to be behaving on that particular day. I’m not suggesting you buy all five or anything but I’ve written a description of each that I hope is helpful, should you be on the look out to try something new to clean your lovely face.

Clinique Liquid Facial Soap Extra Mild £15.50

I know! actual soap! How dare I use the s-word. This is more like a creamy lotion in my humble opinion, and is more thorough than the others yet not at all astringent. I like to use it when I have been sporting sun cream or make-up primer which I feel requires something that little bit extra in terms of shifting-gunk ability.

The toners frighten me to death though, they smell like paint stripper.

Clinique is available at John Lewis.

Avene Gentle Milk Cleanser £9.75

I love this brand (I use their water spray frequently and their specific eye-makeup remover is the only one I allow near my peepers) and this is a VERY moisturising option. I use it when my skin is particularly dry (usually in winter months) and massage it in for a good few minutes before removal.

Avene is available at Boots.

A-Derma Sensifluid Cleansing Oil £8.18

Another awesome brand for reactive types, I steer well clear of oils usually (they bring me up in hives) but this one is lush – no weird scary flower extracts or things that makes you itchy.

I use this when I just feel I could do with a pampering “super” cleanse (usually once a week) and it’s really effective at removing flakes.

Boots stock a limited range but I head to the french website for this particular item www.leguidesante.co.uk (It’s addictive – you have been warned.)

Boots Simply Sensitive Lotion £1.39

This is my favourite. Yes folks, my most beloved skincare product is £1.39. It’s so gentle, and so darn cheap, it really doesn’t matter if you use a hefty amount to really shift that daily grime. It’s my regular go-to as it’s not too greasy, doesn’t smell of anything in particular and if I accidentally shove it in my eye (happens) there is absolutely no stinging sensation.

I tend to buy in bulk (they have 3 for 2 offers at Boots frequently) as the thought of running out makes me feel queasy.

Garnier Micellar Lotion £3.32

This is quite a new addition to my bathroom cabinet. I’ve tried a few of these “water” type cleansers before and have been left somewhat dehydrated, I therefore tend to give them a wide birth.

This Garnier version I like though, perfect for lazy days (yes ok ok sometimes I don’t feel like the whole flannel fandango and just want to crawl into bed) and when you just require something cooling/non oily.

Garnier is available at Superdrug.

So sensitive souls, what’s your cleanser of choice? and do you (like me) rotate more than one?