CLEANSE, tone and moisturise: it's the universal mantra when it comes to looking after your skin. But why do you need a cleanser?

Washing with water will rinse some of the dirt and debris away - but it's not quite enough, according to skincare company, Dermalogica.

Their experts say that plain tap water will only remove about 65 per cent of the oil and dirt on your skin and will not effectively remove make-up.

Skin cleansers, however, work as emulsifiers and help remove dirt, excess sebum, bacteria, cosmetics and exfoliated surface skin cells.

Fortunately, there are many alternatives to soap for cleansing the skin and Dermalogica offers five cleansers, each designed to treat different skin conditions.

Their UltraCalming Cleanser for Face and Eyes is an extremely gentle cleansing gel-cream, which can be either rinsed off or gently removed with cotton wool, leaving no irritating residue for even the most sensitive skin.

Dermalogica's Anti-Bac skin wash is the first of its kind to contain salicylic acid and triclosan, which help eliminate bacteria. The naturally-foaming lather leaves skin fresh and clean, without harsh, drying effects.

It has the performance of a Dermalogica cleanser in a convenient, soap-free form to gently remove impurities and excess oils without stripping natural moisture balance. It contains tea tree and lavender to help purify skin.

Dermal Clay Cleanser is packed with water-soluble kaolin and green clays to remove excess oils and refine the skin's texture. It also contains purifying botanical extracts and refreshing menthol to leave you feeling awake and your skin feeling silky smooth.

Special Cleansing Gel is a concentrated soap-free foaming gel designed to thoroughly remove impurities without disturbing the skin's natural moisture balance.

Essential Cleansing Solution is a rich, creamy, cleanser which gently lifts impurities from dry skin while deep-conditioning and soothing irritation.

Dermalogica products are only available in appointed centres on recommendation of a qualified therapist. For details, call 0900 591818.