After food, water and sleep, your cleansing routine should be up there with your daily essentials.

Whether you wear a full face of dramatic make-up like Amy Winehouse or prefer the au naturale look, cleansing is an essential part of looking after our skin.

Sisley skin consultant Victoria Levitskaya says:  "We all need to cleanse, tone and moisturise once in the evening, and exfoliate once a week."

But leaving the fresh face mission until night-time, it's all too easy to neglect our routines.

Follow the rules of a super-thorough cleansing routine seven days a week, 365 days a year, and you could end up wasting valuable beauty sleep stuck in the bathroom. So strike a happy medium and stick to the basics.

Skin type system

Your first step to cleansing heaven is finding products that suit your skin type. There's no point borrowing your flatmate's lotions and potions if they have an adverse affect on your face.

"If you're not sure, a skin analysis at a reputable beauty counter is perfect for finding a routine and products suited to your individual skin type," says Victoria.

Those suffering from a skin condition like acne or eczema should consult their GP for advice on their routines first.

Shortcut cleanse

We've all had a big night on the tiles when taking off our make-up feels like the beauty effort equivalent of climbing Mount Everest. But be warned, leaving your face covered in slap overnight will age you and prompt spot outbreaks.

That's reason enough to at least turn to a quick-fix cleanse for one night only, and save your pillow from make-up mess.

Cleansing wipes are a speedy way to remove grime.

There are also all-in-one products out there for the lazy, which promise to cleanse, tone and moisturise with

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one magic wave of your cotton wool pad.

Goodbye Grime

Cleansing the right way is the foundation to kicking off your fresh-face routine. The method you choose is down to personal preference. "Go for a cleansing milk or cream if you like to see the removal results on a cotton wool pad, or use a mousse if you prefer the idea of 'washing off' your make-up," says Victoria.

Tone Tactics

"Many people tend to miss out toning from their routines but it's highly important," Victoria warns. “Toner removes traces of make-up cleansing leaves behind and hydrates the skin.”

Check the ingredients and opt for toner without alcohol if you have

dry or sensitive skin.

Moisturise Mode

After cleansing and toning, your face deserves a treat with a luxurious dose of moisturiser to hydrate your skin. You can also up the ante against fine lines with an anti-ageing cream.

"Moisturise twice a day, morning and evening," Victoria advises. "Choose a hydrating moisturiser for overnight but your daytime moisturiser should include sun protection - even if it's raining outside."