Getting the most out of your skincare routine includes making sure you’re using the products the way they were designed. That is why we created this guide on a staple product, the face cleanser, and how to use it properly.
We all know facial cleansers main goals are to keep pores clean by removing dead skin cells, dirt, excess oil, and grime from your face.
But did you know you can actually harm your skin by using steaming hot water or scrubbing too hard?
This guide was designed to maintain healthy skin while washing your face.
How to use face cleanser
Step 1: Make sure hands are clean
Start by washing your hands. Washing your face with dirty hands can cause more harm than good as you can be transferring dirt onto your face.
Step 2: Wet face with lukewarm water
Washing your face with lukewarm water has been proven to be the most effective way to wash your face.
Using steaming hot water can actually be drying out your skin, while cold water could leave your skin’s surface blotchy and irritated.
Step 3: Apply cleanser
Apply a dime-sized amount of cleanser into your hands and work it into a lather. Make sure to cover the entire face including your cheeks, chin, jawline, nose, and forehead. Do your best to spread the cleanser evenly.
Step 4: Use gentle circular motion
Using the tips of your fingers, gently massage the cleanser into your face in small circular motions. This process should be done for at least 30-60 seconds and no longer than 2 minutes. This allows enough time for the product to activate all its cleansing properties. Just be careful not to leave your cleanser on too long.
There is no need to rub in too hard as it can lead to more damage than good. Using too much pressure or scrubbing too hard can lead to tightness and irritation.
Step 5: Rinse off cleanser
Gently wash off all of the cleanser with lukewarm water. This can be done by splashing water on your face or using a clean wash clothe. Just remember to go easy. There is no need to apply pressure if you choose to rinse with a wash clothe.
Step 6: Dry face with clean towel
Gently pat dry with a clean towel for best results. There is no need to rub or pull on your facial skin during the drying process. Doing so can be abrasive on the skin barrier and can lead to irritation, acne, or other blemishes.
Bonus: Use makeup remover first
Facial cleansers can remove light layers of makeup but using a makeup remover before you cleanse can really help with heavy makeup use. This allows your cleanser to be the most effective as it doesn’t have an additional layer of grime to break down.
To remove heavier layers of makeup, start your cleansing routine with an oil based cleanser or micellar water.
Bonus: Use cleanser after showering
Using your facial cleanser after you shower can provide you with added benefits as opposed to during the shower.
Yes, it is a time saver to do it while showering, but there is also a chance other products you’re using can enter and clog pores.
Bonus: Apply moisturizer
Help to prevent dry skin and retain moisture by applying a moisturizer on a clean face. Doing so helps to preserve the facial skins natural oils and will maximize your skincare routine.
How to choose the right cleanser
Knowing your individual skin type will be the driving factor when it comes to selecting the best facial cleanser.
Everyone’s skin has different characteristics that may require different products or active ingredients to maximize their skincare routine. This is why it is important to select a facial cleanser specially formulated to target those goals.
For those looking for a deeper cleanse, it is also important to know the difference between a cleanser and a face wash.
Dry and sensitive skin
Look for facial cleansers that are gentle on the skin and promote moisturizing with ingredients like glycerin, hyaluronic acid, lavender, ceramides, and vitamin B.
Milk and cream cleansers can be much more hydrating than foaming cleansers.
Avoiding products that contain alcohol or using fragrance free formulas can also help protect the skin barrier for sensitive skin types.
Oily skin
Look for cleansers that remove excess oils and help to control sebum production without damaging the natural skin barrier. Foaming cleansers with ingredients like hyaluronic acid, salicylic acid, and ceramides are popular among those with oily skin.
Products with benzoyl peroxide are good if you are looking to protect against acne prone skin. Be sure to find a gentle formula that removes excess oil but hydrates and exfoliates the skin.
Combination skin
Cleansers that are oil free, fragrance free, and are non-comedogenic can work best for those areas of the face that are dry. Ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, peptides, and lactic acid will help keep your face hydrated.
Conclusion
Using your face cleanser properly is a big step in the right direction for general skin health. Things like controlling water temperature and to avoid rubbing hard when cleansing can affect your skin more than you realize.
When paired with knowing your skin type, you have the knowledge to find the active ingredients that benefit your skincare routine the most.
Everyone’s daily routine may be different but following these general guidelines can help prevent breakouts and skin problems while maintaining healthy skin.