The best face cleansers: Achieve a saintly glow

Cleanliness may not really be next to godliness, but, with the right cleansing routine, it's easy to achieve a saintly glow.

The hot-cloth cleansing method is one of the best ways to remove make-up and the daily grime, and its results mean those who use it become almost evangelical.

Whatever cleanser you prefer can be put to better use simply by using a hot, damp cloth (I prefer a flannel to a scratchy muslin) to remove it. Rinse and wring out the cloth in hot water to steam-clean your pores and ensure skin is ready to absorb your night-time moisturiser.

Porefinist anti-shine fresh cleansing oil

From £30, shuuemura.co.uk

Expensive, but a bottle will last ages even with everyday use. This light oil doesn't strip-mine skin, although it can leave eyes feeling filmy so those with sensitive peepers beware.

Rosa Centifolia hot cloth cleanser

£16, renskincare.com

Smells beautiful and is rich without clogging pores, this creamy formula comes with a small cotton flannel which won't stay white for long.

Cleanse & Polish orange flower & chamomile

£19.75, lizearle.com

One of the original and best-known hot-cloth cleansers, this limited-edition version has a lovely spring-like scent.

Camomile silky cleansing oil

£10, bodyshop.co.uk

Camomile's soothing properties make this a great choice for skin that's prone to irritation and blemishes; removes waterproof make-up, too.

White velvet mousse

£26, Sampar, marksandspencer.com

This foaming cleanser from French pharmacy brand Sampar exfoliates and clarifies skin, but is gentle enough for daily use.