The Importance of Cleansing: Why Your Skin Needs It Morning and Night

woman cleansing her face with a gentle face wash

In a perfect world we’d live like our ancient ancestors - fresh air, no pollution, no make-up, no central heating, and no SPF films sitting on the skin. But modern life is very different. We’re surrounded by airborne pollution, daily stress, indoor heating, mobiles pressed to our faces and layers of skincare and cosmetics. Our skin is dealing with far more than nature ever intended.

And this is exactly why cleansing is one of the most important steps in your entire skincare routine.

At Soothe Luxury Skincare & Spa in West Bridgford, we often say: good skin starts with good cleansing. It’s simple, foundational, and has a bigger impact on your skin health than most people realise.

In this guide, we explain why cleansing twice a day matters, what happens if you skip it, and how to choose the right cleanser for your skin type.

Why Cleansing Matters in the Morning

Many people assume their skin is clean first thing in the morning — but your skin has been working hard while you sleep.

During the night, your skin:

• Produces oil and sweat

• Sheds dead skin cells

• Pushes out cellular waste

• Regenerates and repairs

A morning cleanse helps to:

• Remove overnight oil, sweat and waste

• Gently clear away dead skin cells

• Create the perfect base for serums and moisturiser

• Prevent congestion under SPF or make-up

Think of your morning cleanse as preparing a fresh canvas for the day.

Why Cleansing at Night Is Essential

Your night-time cleanse is the single most important step in your routine. During the day, your skin collects:

• Pollution particles

• SPF

• Make-up

• Sweat

• Bacteria

• Dust and debris

• Oil build-up

If this mixture sits on the skin overnight, it can clog pores, trigger inflammation, cause breakouts, dullness, sensitivity and accelerate premature ageing.

An evening cleanse:

• Removes everything the skin has accumulated

• Ensures pores stay clear

• Supports the skin’s natural repair cycle

• Improves the absorption of night-time serums and treatments

• Protects long-term skin health

Skipping it is one of the fastest ways to disrupt the skin barrier — so this step is non-negotiable for glowing, healthy skin.

How to Choose the Right Cleanser for Your Skin Type

Finding the right cleanser is just as important as cleansing itself. At Soothe, we help clients choose the best formula for their specific skin needs. Below is a simple guide to get you started.

Dry Skin

Best cleanser types:

• Cream cleansers

• Milky cleansers

• Nourishing balm cleansers

  
  

Why: They protect the skin barrier while dissolving impurities, leaving skin soft and comfortable rather than tight.

Dehydrated Skin

Best cleanser types:

• Hydrating gels

• Moisture-rich milks

  
  

Why: These formulas help the skin retain water and prevent dryness after cleansing.

Sensitive or Reactive Skin

Best cleanser types:

• Milky cleansers

• Gel-cream textures

• Low-fragrance or fragrance-free formulas

  
  

Why: They cleanse effectively while calming and protecting the skin barrier, minimising redness and irritation from potential irritants like fragrances.

Visit our skincare store at Soothe to find your perfect cleanser

Normal Skin

Best cleanser types:

• Gentle face washes

• Light milks

• Rinse-off Balms

  
  

Why: Normal skin can adapt well. Choose the texture you prefer depending on the season or your skin’s natural preference.

Oily Skin

Best cleanser types:

• Lightweight gel cleansers

• Purifying milks

• Gentle foaming formulas that don’t strip the skin

Why: These lift away excess oil, help keep pores clear and leave the skin fresh without over-drying.

Combination Skin

Best cleanser types:

• Balancing gel cleansers

• Gentle face washes

• Milky cleansers

• Balms

  
  

Why: These formulas keep the T-zone clear while nourishing drier areas, helping to keep the skin balanced.

Acne-Prone Skin

Best cleanser types:

• Clarifying gels

• Purifying milks with gentle exfoliating actions

• Gentle face washes

  
  

Why: They help loosen congestion and manage blemishes without irritating or stripping the skin (at least they shouldn't).

Mature Skin

Best cleanser types:

• Nourishing creams

• Comforting balms

• Soft cleansing milks

  
  

Why: These protect the skin barrier, improve suppleness and support healthy ageing while still cleansing effectively.

The Benefits of Choosing the Right Cleanser

Selecting the right cleanser for your skin type can:

• Improve texture and clarity

• Prevent breakouts and congestion

• Support a healthy skin barrier

• Increase hydration levels

• Reduce sensitivity

• Enhance the results of your serums and moisturisers

  
  

Cleansing is the foundation of every facial we perform at Soothe because when cleansing is right, everything that follows works better.

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Need Personal Advice? Visit Us at Soothe

If you’d like help identifying your skin type or choosing a cleanser that truly supports your skin health, our expert therapists are here to guide you.

Pop in, book a consultation, or send us a message. We’d love to help you create a cleansing routine that leaves your skin fresh, balanced and glowing every day.