Yet another trend has emerged from the East and is due to change the way we think about cleansing. The 4-2-4 cleansing method is an ideology based on massaging cleansing oil into the skin for 4 minutes, then a cream cleanser for 2, then rinsing for 4. Yes, you read that right.

Before you cast this method aside though (we know, splashing water on our skin for 4 minutes sounds slightly absurd), the reasoning behind it is actually pretty tight.

Similar to double cleansing, which is where you use 2 differently formulated cleansers to effectively remove all manner of makeup, dirt and oil, the 4-2-4 cleansing method just sets a timer on things. By attributing a number of minutes to each step, you can ensure you are actually using your cleansers to the best of their abilities.

First 4 Minutes: Oil Cleanse

You know how this one works. Take an oil cleanser and massage it in for 4 minutes.

We know this sounds overly time-consuming, but just think how good it feels when you come out of a facial; that is all down to timings and not products. In a facial, therapists use the same products you can buy at home, they just spend a little longer, you guessed it, using them.

You can use any cleansing oil for this step, just make sure you use one for your skin type, as you're spending a long time massaging it in. These are 3 of our favourites...

• Bobbi Brown Soothing Cleansing Oil - Jasmine Flower and Kukui Nut Oil make up this gentle formulation. We love it.
• DHC Cleansing Oil - The main ingredient here is Olive Oil, which isn't ranked highly on the comedogenic scale, meaning it won't break you out.
• Origins Clean Energy Gentle Cleansing Oil - A vibrant blend of Grapefruit, Orange and Lemon uplifts and energises; perfect for combatting the winter blues.

Whatever cleansing oil you decide to use, don't forget 4 minutes. Oh, and don't rinse off afterwards. Keep with us...