According to Shereene Idriss, a board-certified dermatologist and founder of Idriss Dermatology in New York City, cleansing milks, or milk cleansers, are thin emulsions that rinse off and are non-foaming. “Cleansing
milks offer a gentler approach to face wash. They are formulated for very dry skin and are non-stripping,” explains Idriss. “It’s said that Karl Lagerfeld used to bathe in cleansing milks every day to keep his body and skin soft. At least that’s the myth I’ve heard around the block.” Looks like the queens and Lagerfeld had something in common!
Because the best cleansing milks pamper the skin but are much gentler than traditional face washes, you might need some extra help when it comes to removing makeup. (Read: Don’t forgo your double-cleanse ritual just yet.) “It depends on how much makeup you typically wear. For a full face of makeup, I recommend using micellar water first before cleansing milk,” says Idriss. However, some cleansing milks contain oil, which can also assist in removing heavy makeup such as eyeliner and mascara.