
During summer your skin faces increased exposure to sweat, excess oil, and environmental pollutants. Cleansing your skin properly is not just about removing dirt – it’s a crucial step in maintaining a healthy, radiant complexion. Whether it’s after a workout, before bed, or first thing in the morning, using the right skincare products can make all the difference.
Ruan Winter, Marketing Manager for Vitaderm, explores the importance of proper cleansing and how to choose products that are gentle, effective, and suitable for sensitive skin.
Why proper cleansing is essential
- Removes sweat and bacteria after exercise
After a run or gym session, sweat and oil can mix with bacteria on the skin, leading to breakouts and irritation. Cleansing immediately after exercise helps prevent clogged pores and keeps your skin refreshed. - Prevents excess oil build-up
Hot, humid conditions can cause the skin to produce more sebum, leading to an oily complexion. Using the right cleanser helps regulate oil production without stripping the skin’s natural barrier. - Prepares your skin for the day
Morning cleansing removes overnight oil and prepares your skin for moisturiser and SPF, ensuring better absorption and effectiveness throughout the day. - Enhances overnight skin regeneration
Cleansing before bed is non-negotiable – it removes makeup, pollution, and impurities accumulated during the day, allowing your skin to repair itself while you sleep.
The right way to cleanse your skin
According to Winter, choosing a gentle, pH-balanced cleanser is key: “Harsh cleansers can disrupt the skin’s barrier, leading to dryness and sensitivity. Opt for formulations that cleanse without stripping essential moisture.”
Here’s a simple cleansing routine to follow:
- Use lukewarm water – Hot water can dehydrate the skin, while cold water may not effectively remove impurities.
- Apply a gentle cleanser – Avoid foaming cleansers with harsh sulphated ingredients, as they can be too harsh on the skin. Instead, use a gentle cream or gel-based formula.
- Massage in circular motions – This boosts circulation and ensures a thorough cleanse.
- Rinse thoroughly and pat dry – Never rub your skin with a towel; patting prevents irritation.
Top summer cleansing picks
If you’re looking for gentle yet effective cleansers, Vitaderm offers a range that caters to different skin needs:
- Pre-Cleanser – Ideal for removing sunscreen and waterproof makeup before your main cleanse.
- Cream Cleanser – A soothing option for sensitive skin, maintaining hydration while removing impurities.
- Mild Gel Cleanser – Perfect for combination and oily skin types, offering a deep clean without over-drying.
No matter the season, proper cleansing is the foundation of great skincare. With the right techniques and products, you can keep your skin feeling fresh, balanced, and protected.
For more information visit the Vitaderm website.

One lucky reader stand that chance to win a Vitaderm hamper valued at over R1500, consisting of the Mild Gel Cleanser, Anti-Oxidant Cream and Intensive Hydrating Serum.
This giveaway is now closed.
Rules
This competition is open to SA residents only and closes at 12:00 on 14 March 2025. Only one entry per participant will be taken into account for the prize draw. By entering the competition, you agree to sign up to our weekly newsletter. The winners will be drawn from all the correct entrants and notified via email. This prize cannot be exchanged for cash. BeautySouthAfrica.com’s decision is final and no correspondence will be entered into. We will not share your information with any third parties. If winners do not respond to email notification within three days, another winner will be drawn. BeautySouthAfrica.com will supply all prizes in good order, but will not be held liable for the condition of prizes arriving at the winners’ chosen delivery address. Please allow six to eight weeks for delivery. If you have won a prize on BeautySouthAfrica.com in the last two months, you are ineligible to win this competition.
Read the full terms and conditions of this competition here.




10 comments
Nondumiso
Would love to give this a try!
Cheryl Govender
Yoh, wonderful giveaway
David kadi
fingers Crossed
Engelinah Thulo
We here
Netshedzo Manugu
Finger crossed for this
Zubeida Saville
haven’t been using a proper cleanser in a very long time. so wining this prize would come in handy for my skin and get me back in the swing of taking care after my skin after two kids.
Zamandlovu TuTu
Fingers crossed
Denishia
entered
Busisiwe Suliman
fingers crossed .
Brandon Pierre Fourie
awesome prize, liked & shared, good luck to all who enter