One of the most important steps to any skin care regimen is also one of the most easily misunderstood. Cleansing is the foundation of an effective routine, so it’s crucial to get it right. From choosing the proper products to applying them correctly, here’s your guide to daily cleansing.
Select a cleanser
Unfortunately, simply splashing your face with water isn’t enough to remove the oil, sweat, dirt, bacteria, fungus and dead cells that accumulate on the skin’s surface. To effectively remove this debris, it’s important to use a cleanser that’s specially formulated for your skin type.
- Dry skin. Those with dry skin will need a rich, creamy formula to hydrate without irritating or stripping the skin’s natural oil barrier. Look for a cleanser that will protect the skin and maintain moisture.
- Product pick. For skin that’s dry or delicate, try Clarisonic Nourishing Care Cleanser. This balanced cleanser promotes healthy hydration by enhancing the skin’s ability to attract and retain moisture.
- Oily skin. Oily complexions will benefit from a gentle foam or gel cleanser that keeps excess oil and shine at bay without excessively drying the skin.
- Combination skin. The problem with having a combination complexion is that cleansers designed for oily skin are just too harsh, while products created for dry complexions are too greasy. Your best bet is to use a mild cleanser formulated for combination skin.
- Acne-prone skin. Acneic skin often suffers from bacteria trapped deep within pores, so look for a clarifying cleanser that kills bacteria to prevent new blemishes from forming.
- Sensitive skin. Sensitive skin can be dry, oily, combination or acne-prone. Some individuals with sensitive skin are susceptible to skin conditions like eczema or rosacea, while others experience frequent reactions to skin care products. It’s best to consult a dermatologist to determine the best facial cleanser for your sensitive skin care needs.
- Product pick. In the meantime, cleanse and protect sensitive or inflamed skin with SkinMedica Sensitive Skin Cleanser. This product is also recommended following chemical procedures.
- Mature skin. Mature skin is often dry and may show signs of environmental damage. Choose a gentle cleanser packed with antioxidants and hydrating ingredients. Also, look for cleansers that contain effective exfoliants, including glycolic acid, which slough off dull, dry, dead skin cells — revealing newer, younger-looking skin and allowing other products to better penetrate the skin.
Refine your routine
How smart is your strategy for cleansing the most visible part of your body? Refine your facial cleansing routine by following these simple steps:
- Wash your hands. No matter what type of cleanser you use, always start with clean hands. Hands harbor a lot of bacteria, dirt and grime that can easily transfer to the face.
- Rinse the face. Once hands are clean, splash the face with warm water and put a small amount of your cleanser in the palm of one hand.
- Apply cleanser. Next, rub your hands together to distribute the cleanser evenly between both palms, and then massage the cleanser into the skin (in circular motions) with both hands. Remove the cleanser by rinsing with warm (not hot) water.
- Gently dry with a clean towel. The final step is to gently pat your skin dry with a clean towel. Keep in mind that towels can also harbor germs and bacteria, so switch out towels often. After cleansing, complete your regimen with the appropriate toner and moisturizer.
- Repeat, morning and night. For most skin types, washing your face twice a day is recommended: once in the morning and once before bedtime.
Keep in mind that properly cleansed skin should feel clean but not stripped. For a few minutes following cleansing, it’s normal for skin to feel slightly tight or taut, especially if you’re using a cleanser with salicylic or glycolic acid.
These types of acids momentarily change the pH of the skin in order to allow the active ingredients to work, causing the dry sensation. However, if the skin hurts, burns or itches after cleansing or if tightness doesn’t subside, it’s time to look for another cleanser.
Pay special attention to eyes
The eyes need special attention when it comes to cleansing. Eye makeup, mascara and liners are all specially pigmented, and your all-over facial cleanser likely isn’t formulated for removing these long-lasting ingredients. Instead, use a gentle eye makeup remover.
- Product pick. Bliss Lid and Lash Wash will dissolve even the darkest eye makeup without irritation. Apply a small amount of the wash to a cotton pad and hold over your closed eyelid for several seconds to soften the pigment. Then, gently wipe away any residue. You can also use cotton swabs dipped into the remover to get rid of any leftover eye makeup around the lash line.
Consider hands-free options
Although most people use their hands to cleanse, there are other options.
- Washcloths. Washcloths are an old standby. But, while a washcloth feels nice on the skin and can act as a mild exfoliator, it can harbor an amazing amount of bacteria — especially if left damp.
If you must use a washcloth, allow it to dry completely between uses or use a clean cloth every time. To avoid the extra laundry, consider disposable facial cleansing cloths or pads.
- Product pick. DDF Glycolic Daily Cleansing Pads will conveniently cleanse, clear and refresh your skin. They’re a great alternative to washcloths and essential for skin care on the go.
- Loofahs and sponges. Loofahs and sponge-puffs are also very popular. Most loofah sponges are too abrasive for facial cleansing. So, be sure to use one that’s specially designed for the face. Facial sponges are inexpensive and often disposable.
- Brushes. Facial cleansing brushes are an exciting new way to cleanse the face. Made with super-soft bristles, they quickly and gently break down dirt and makeup. To use, simply apply your cleanser to the wet brush and scrub gently in a circular motion.
Keep your facial brush clean by washing it in hot water with an antibacterial soap, and letting it air-dry. With proper care, a facial cleansing brush should last from six months to a year. While facial brushes are great for most skin types, they may irritate sensitive skin.
- Product pick. For the latest in skin care brushes, try the Clarisonic Skin Care System. It’s clinically proven to be twice as effective as cleansing by hand.
Keeping your face clean may seem like a no-brainer, but it’s easy to skip this step when you’re feeling exhausted or pressed for time. Remember, though, that pollution, dirt, grime and bacteria can have drastic effects on the skin, making daily cleansing critical for every skin type, concern or condition. Instead of seeing it as another chore, look at everyday cleansing as a mini-spa indulgence that leads to healthy, fresh skin.
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Keep Your Skincare Simple