We all have late nights every now and again – and when we kick off our shoes and climb into our pyjamas, the very last thing on our mind is cleansing our skin.  I’ve been so tempted to dive under the duvet in the past that I have woken up in the middle of the night with sore eyes and a smudged pillow – only to have to muster up the enthusiasm to get out of bed and head to the bathroom sink in the dead of night. So somewhere along the line, I decided to make things easier for myself…

Cleansing doesn’t have to be a chore – it can take 30 seconds if you want it to. And whilst a good, thorough cleanse is best for your skin as a routine, the odd night of cutting corners isn’t going to hurt anyone – especially when the products are as good as my three suggestions below!
OPTION 1 – CLEANSING WATER

I’ve put this option at the top of the list, as it’s what I choose to use myself… Cleansing waters (known as ‘Micellar Solutions) are big news in France, so you will see a lot of the French skincare brands offering bottles on their shelves.

The thin, water-like fluid contains a blend of natural ingredients and gentle essential oils to capture dirt and sweep it away. Simply saturate a cotton pad, work it around your complexion until it comes away clean, and moisturise afterwards. It takes seconds – and is ideal for sensitive skin, as it’s incredibly gentle.
Try: Caudalie Cleansing Water, £13.45.
OPTION 2 – FACE WIPES

We’ve all used cleansing wipes in the past – packing them for festivals, holidays, or perhaps our first foray into cleansing as a teenager (I know I fall into that group).

As a long-term cleansing option, they don’t really suffice, as they never tend to remove as much dirt or grease as other forms of cleansing. But if you have had a late night, they are far better an option than nothing at all. I now keep a pack of wipes on my bedside table for those nights that I really can’t do anything but dive under the duvet. And as a bonus, they are brilliant at removing the toughest of eye makeup.
Try: Klorane Make Up Remover Wipes, £6.24 for 25.
OPTION 3 – CLEANSING OIL

Most cleansing oils require a quick rinse after you’ve worked them into skin – but the oil is so effective at removing dirt and makeup that it makes it a very quick option for those that want to save precious minutes in the evening.

Don’t be put off if you have oily skin… Contrary to popular belief, the oil in the cleanser will attract oil on the surface of your skin – leaving you with a balanced, grease-free complexion. I know lots of people that use cleansing oils daily and swear by them – you really have to try it to believe what a difference it can make to your skin.
Try: Dior Instant Cleansing Oil, £22.50.