One of the first things I ask my clients when I detox their makeup bags or begin a makeup lesson is “Tell me, how do you remove your makeup?”. Invariably I am met with a wide-eyed, slightly nervous look and then a couple of seconds later I hear their almost inaudible reply: “Using wipes?” *slams head in hands*
If Caroline Hirons were in the room she would roll her eyes and gently talk the client through the reasons why using wipes on a regular basis is not a good idea. Since I cannot have Caroline with me all the time (even some of the time would be wonderful!) I do my best to impart her wisdom and the ‘double cleansing’ technique she champions is a great one to learn. Not only is it a fantastic technique but Caroline has also collaborated with beauty brand Pixi to produce a specific double cleansing product to make it easier for people to get their heads around.
Double cleansing is essentially the process of removing one’s makeup with not one, but two cleansing products. When removing my own makeup, I personally like to first remove my eye makeup with a micellar water (check out my hero present idea from Day #7) and then massage in a cleansing oil, balm or cream to remove the rest of my makeup.
Pixi + Caroline Hirons’ Double Cleanse contains a solid cleansing oil (step 1) and a cleansing cream (step 2), the theory being that the oil will break down most of the makeup (including eye makeup) and the second will remove any remaining makeup or dirt. I personally still prefer to use a micellar water first to remove my eye makeup as I cannot stand getting mascara onto clean flannels 😉
The solid oil (top compartment in the photo above) is fantastic and I find I only need a little bit (about the size of a 5 pence piece) to remove a full face of makeup.
The cream is much lighter and provides an excellent second cleanse. I sometimes reach for the cleansing cream in the morning if I want a light cleanse before I apply my skincare and makeup.
If you find you are reaching for the oil more than the cream, or vice versa, you may find it more economical to purchase a larger pot or bottle of just one but as beauty presents go, you cannot really go wrong with this and anyone receiving it is bound to be delighted.
Pixi & Caroline Hirons Double Cleanse 2 In 1
THE FACTS
How much is it:
£24.00 (includes 2x 50ml).
Where can I buy it:
Cult Beauty, Asos, Liberty and online.
Who is it for:
Anyone who wears makeup, be it a little or a lot.
How to use it:
If wearing heavy eye makeup consider removing some of this first with a micellar water or eye makeup remover, before cleansing. Step 1: Massage the solid oil into dry skin, rinse the skin a little with warm water and then remove any excess with a hand hot flannel. Gently exfoliate the skin using the flannel as you wipe your face. Step 2: Take a small amount of the cleansing cream and repeat the same process (i.e. massage into dry skin, rinse with a little warm water and remove any remaining product with a hand hot flannel). Avoid drying your face with a towel after this step. If your skin is damp allow it to air dry or apply a PH balancing toner (I adore this one by Oromovicza) before proceeding with your nightly skincare.
Coming up tomorrow…
A natural lipstick I discovered at the cinema…(true story!)
A bit more about my Advent Cal:
My advent-themed calendar is designed to give you, lovely reader, some ideas for presents this gifting season. The list is based on my Top 25 Beauty Buys of recent years. Of the 25 products which made the cut, some I have used for the first time this year and others I have been using for several years. The selection criteria for each product was as follows:
1. It is a product I have repurchased or know I will definitely repurchase at some point
2. It is an item I believe will genuinely make an awesome gift for someone this Christmas
This series is not sponsored and you should know that, like many makeup artists, I am one of the fussiest people I know when it comes to selecting and using beauty products. They have to blow me away. Hope you enjoy!