Powder cleansers are going to totally change the way we cleanse our skin. Here's why you need one ASAP...
Since when did cleansing become more complicated than peeing in a playsuit after three glasses of wine?
Take us back to simpler times, when Justin was still dating Selena, hangovers didn't exist and washing your face was one-step and fancy-free.
Enter: Cleansing powders. They may sound complex, but these clever granular concoctions can be customised to what your skin needs daily, and eliminate the need for a separate exfoliator altogether. Double cleansing be damned.
Why powder cleansers are so great
Because you can take them on a plane. Boom. No further questions.
Ok ok, carry-on-convenience aside, think; what do cream, gel and foam cleansers all have in common? Water is often the main ingredient.
Powder cleansers don't contain water whatsoever, so all active ingredients remain potent and undiluted. Plus, because they're dry, they're bound to last longer. And trust us, they last a long time.
But perhaps the very best thing about powder cleansers is that they're customisable every time you use them. The amount of water you add affects the exfoliation intensity – so whether your skin is feeling congested, dry or sensitive on any given day, the power is in your hands as to which kind of cleanser you make to take care of it.
How do I use a powder cleanser?
Just like the laziest of all cake pre-mixes, just add water.
"For deep exfoliation, just use a splash of water. For a lighter cleansing, use ample water to turn the formula into more of a lather", says Lizz Starr, Executive Director of Global Product Development at Origins.
Simply tap the product into the palm of your hands, then add water and mix until you've achieved your ideal texture and lather. Then massage into your skin and rinse the same as a regular cleanser.
Powder cleansers are generally quite suited to sensitive skin because of the gentle exfoliation they provide, but all skin types can reap the benefits. Plus this 2-in-1 product has the potential of replacing your cleanser and exfoliator.
Which powder cleansers are worth my pennies?
Clear Improvement™ Active Charcoal Exfoliating Cleansing Powder, £25, Origins
Ideal for normal to combination skin, this cleanser uses the purifying properties of charcoal in its most powerful form (powder) to detoxify the skin. It also contains micro-fine walnut shell to gently buff away dullness.
Face Wash Powder, £10.50, DHC
Another J-beauty brand, but a bit more reasonable in price. This one lathers into more of a foam than a cream.
Buffing Grains for Face, £33, Bobbi Brown
Super duper gentle. Eczema and blemish sufferers needn't fear this exfoliator, which buffs away without going overboard.
Facial Cleansing Powder, £32, Rodin
Delicately scented with jasmine and bitter orange, Rodin's powder provides a luxe experience. With water added, the powder becomes creamy and leaves skin oh so soft.
Silver Powder, £12, Mario Badescu
Blackheads, be gone! This cleanser works well as a targeted treatment; wet a cotton pad and then brush it across congested areas like the nose and forehead.
