Instructions for Cleansing Your Facial Skin
Maintaining a clean and healthy complexion is essential for everyone, and washing your face plays a crucial role in this process. Not only does it help remove dirt, pollutants, and excess oil, but it can also treat some skin conditions and keep your skin clean. However, the choice of cleanser is just as important as the washing itself.
Dermatologists recommend selecting a cleanser tailored to your skin type and concerns to achieve the best results. For those with oily skin, gel or foaming cleansers that control excess oil without stripping the skin are recommended. Ingredients like salicylic acid, tea tree oil, and niacinamide are beneficial for fighting acne and controlling oil production.
On the other hand, those with dry skin should opt for creamy, lotion-based, or oil-based cleansers that gently cleanse without removing essential moisture. Key ingredients include hyaluronic acid, ceramides, and glycerin, which help lock in moisture, strengthen the skin barrier, and hydrate the skin.
For sensitive skin, fragrance-free, gentle cleansers with minimal additives are the best choice. Dermatologist-favourites include Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser, CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser, and Vanicream Gentle Facial Cleanser.
People with acne-prone skin should choose cleansers with ingredients such as salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide to unclog pores and reduce breakouts. Products like La Roche-Posay Effaclar Purifying Foaming Gel or Murad Clarifying Cleanser are dermatologist-recommended for managing acne and excess oil.
When washing your face, lukewarm water is recommended, as cold water is fine if preferred, and hot water should be avoided. When drying your face, use a clean cotton towel and pat the area dry, avoiding rubbing. A liquid soap is generally gentler than a bar soap.
Dr. Anderson prefers using lukewarm water to rinse the cleanser from your face to avoid irritation. It's essential to apply a moisturizer to your face, especially if using a medicated cleanser, as it helps maintain a healthy skin barrier.
For those who wear makeup or sunscreen, a double cleansing method is recommended—starting with an oil-based cleanser to remove impurities, followed by a gentle water-based cleanser for a thorough clean.
In addition, dermatologists advise avoiding harsh ingredients like sulfates, alcohol, and synthetic fragrances if you have sensitive or dry skin. They also recommend checking for dermatologist-recommended and National Eczema Association-approved products if you have sensitive or eczema-prone skin. If your skin feels tight, dry, or irritated after cleansing, try a milder formula.
Following these expert-backed guidelines will help you select a cleanser that supports your skin’s unique needs and promotes a healthy complexion. Dr. Anderson recommends washing your full face, including the jaw and neck area, and applying the cleanser with your fingers for the most effective results.
- Dermatologists suggest selecting a cleanser based on your skin type and concerns for optimal results, with oily skin benefiting from gel or foaming cleansers that control oil and fight acne.
- Individuals with dry skin should opt for creamy, lotion-based, or oil-based cleansers that gently cleanse without removing essential moisture, which contain hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid, ceramides, and glycerin.
- For sensitive skin, fragrance-free, gentle cleansers with minimal additives are recommended, such as Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser, CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser, or Vanicream Gentle Facial Cleanser.
- People with acne-prone skin should choose cleansers with ingredients like salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide to unclog pores, reduce breakouts, and manage acne, like La Roche-Posay Effaclar Purifying Foaming Gel or Murad Clarifying Cleanser.
