From The Straits Times    |

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You wouldn’t think that a powdered soap would be a good idea for your face. I think it has something to do with the fact that when you think of powdered soaps, washing detergent comes to mind, not something that’s gentle enough for your face.

However, when my skin feels dry or sensitive, I switch to a powdered cleanser from Japanese brand Fancl. I have used it on and off for about 10 years now, and it seems that the beauty brands have been launching more facial washing powders in the market too.

When you pour these cleansers out of their bottles into your hand, they’re usually whitish chalky dust with talcum powder consistency. Add a few drops of water, rub your hands together to lather it up, and you get a lightweight, often bubbly foam.

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To get denser suds, pour the cleansing powder onto a wet puff or small sponge and squeeze vigorously; This action introduces air into the formula to create richer lather.

 

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Apply this lathered up soap foam onto damp skin and massage it on. The bubbly lather makes for a gentle skin cleanser that lifts off dirt and grime effectively from the skin. It’s suitable for all skin types, even sensitive, eczema prone skin.

Some powdered cleanser formulas also contain finely ground minerals and plant-based enzymes too, which helps to exfoliate skin, sloughing off dullness.

Here are five formulas to try:

 

Orbis Powder Wash +, $25.

This formula boasts enzymes that help to loosen dead skin and hardened sebum on your skin. (These nasties are the cause of bacteria build-up and breakouts.) This cleanser also contains collagen and royal jelly extract that hydrate your skin.

 

Medicube Zero Powder Cleanser, $37, available at Guardian.

This Korean derma-cosmetic brand is new in Singapore, and this Zero range targets pores and troubled skin. This gentle exfoliating powder cleanser that can be used daily, and contains natural ingredients like papaya, magnolia berry, and aloe vera leaves to exfoliate while moisturising your skin.

 

Origins Clear Improvement™ Active Charcoal Exfoliating Cleansing Powder, $60.

This exfoliating cleansing powder deep cleans effectively using active charcoal. The charcoal powder draws out the impurities and detoxifies your skin at the same time. It promises visibly minimised pores, plus clearer, more luminous, and smoother skin.

 

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Clinique Fresh Pressed™ Renewing Powder Cleanser with Pure Vitamin C, $39.

These look like sugar sachets, but it is a powder cleanser that comes in convenient single use packets. The ultra-fine powder has fresh vitamin C that instantly purifies and brightens skin. We love using it in the morning for a dose of perk-me-up.

 

Fancl Facial Washing Powder, $26.

A gentle, preservative-free formula that’s made for even the most sensitive skin. This lathers up into frothy bubbles that feel luxurious on your skin. It doesn’t leave skin tight or dry.

 

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