Liz Earle UK

Both methods are designed to cleanse the skin. But the key difference lies in when water is introduced during the process.

In simple terms:

• Traditional cleansing: water first, cleanser second
• Dry cleansing: cleanser first, water second

With the traditional cleansing method, the face is usually dampened before cleanser is applied. The cleanser is then worked into wet skin and rinsed away. This approach works well for many people.

Dry cleansing takes a different approach. Instead of wetting the skin first, cleanser is massaged directly onto dry skin. This allows the formula to interact more effectively with surface build-up, before water is added.

What are the benefits of dry cleansing?

What are the benefits of dry cleansing?

Helps remove makeup and SPF more effectively

Applying cleanser onto dry skin helps balm and cream formulas break down make up, SPF and daily impurities more effectively, before water is introduced. This approach can be especially beneficial if you wear long-wear make up or waterproof formulas.

A kinder approach for dry and mature skin

If you’re looking for alternative cleansing methods or more considered approach to cleansing, dry cleansing could be for you, especially if you have dry, dehydrated or mature skin. This method helps to preserve the skin's natural moisture balance and may reduce the appearance of post-cleanse tightness.

Enhances the sensorial ritual

Dry cleansing encourages you to slow down and massage cleanser into the skin, allowing you to really enjoy the texture and experience of the cleanser itself. It transforms an everyday step into a moment of calm and care that we all crave.

1. Choose the right cleanser

Choosing the right texture is key. Rich cream, balm, and milk textures make the best dry cleansers because their rich, emollient formulas adhere to dry skin and help to bind make up, SPF, excess oil and daily impurities. The Cleanse & Polish™ Hot Cloth Cleanser is a great choice for dry cleansing, leaving skin feeling supple and looking beautifully radiant.

Foaming cleansers are less suited to this method as they are typically designed to be activated with water, so may not provide the same comforting experience when applied to dry skin.

2. Apply to dry skin

Warm a grape-sized amount of cleanser between your palms before applying it to a completely dry face and neck in gentle, upward, circular motions for 30 to 60 seconds. This unhurried massage is the heart of the dry cleansing method, transforming cleansing into a mindful ritual.

3. Remove with a warm, damp cloth

Soak a muslin cloth in warm, not hot, water, wring out any excess and gently press it over your face. Using light, sweeping motions, polish away the cleanser from the skin. This is where dry cleansing meets Liz Earle's signature hot cloth ritual. Together, these techniques leave the skin feeling soft and refreshed.

4. Follow with your post-cleanse routine

Once you’ve cleansed your skin, it’s now primed for the next steps in your routine. Begin with Instant Boost™ Skin Tonic to help refresh and prepare skin. Then, follow with a targeted serum if using, before finally applying Superskin™ Moisturiser to help lock in comfort.

Is dry cleansing suitable for all skin types?

Thanks to its formula design, comfort-focused approach, dry cleansing is particularly well suited to dry and mature skin.

Combination skin can also benefit from dry cleansing, just try using a lighter touch and focus mainly on oil-prone areas such as the T-zone. If you’re unsure what skin type you have, find out how to know what skin type you are and what products may be best suited to your skin’s needs.

It’s also worth remembering that your skin’s needs can change throughout the year. So rather than choosing a cleanser based solely on a skin type label, it can be more helpful to focus on how your skin feels day to day. Skin that feels dry, tight, or lacking comfort may benefit from richer balm or cream cleansers designed to nourish while cleansing.