Washing your face may seem as easy as it sounds – just splashing on water, applying some cleanser, and rinsing it off. If you’ve always dreamt of having glowing skin, washing your face thoroughly is important in getting rid of dirt, dead skin cells, makeup, and anything that may clog your pores.
Here are some easy tips by dermatologists for you to wash your face properly so that you can achieve clearer and healthier skin.
Washing Your Face Quickly, Gently, and Thoroughly
Firstly, wet your face with lukewarm water, then apply a small amount of cleanser using your fingertips in a gentle circular motion for about 20 to 30 seconds. Focus on areas such as the T-zone and U-zone (around the jawline). Rinse with lukewarm water and carefully pat your face dry with a soft, clean towel.
When and How Often Should You Wash Your Face
Unless you’ve just finished a workout or you’re excessively sweating, wash your face at most twice a day, any more than that may cause more damage than benefit. Washing your face in the morning is crucial as bacteria from your saliva and oils from your hair may easily transfer to your face and eyes while you’re sleeping.
Using a Cleanser That’s Right for Your Skin Type
There are many types of cleansers out there to suit various skin types (oily, dry, normal, or combination), and help treat conditions such as acne or eczema. If you have dry or sensitive skin, a gentle or cream-based cleanser is the best. But if you have oily skin, gel or foamy cleansers are preferred.
Removing Makeup
Removing makeup is equally as important as cleansing your face. You’ve probably heard about how detrimental it is to your skin if you go to bed without first removing your makeup. However, most cleansers will not be sufficient as the majority of makeup sold are waterproof. Thus, dermatologists have recommended using makeup wipes, micellar water, or oil-based makeup remover before washing your face with your usual cleanser.
Exfoliating
A must-have step in your skincare routine is exfoliating which removes dead skin cells, dirt, and gunk that clog your pores, thereby improving skin brightness and radiance. If you are using, physical exfoliants like scrubs, do keep in mind not to exfoliate more than 2 to 3 times a week as it can disrupt the delicate skin barrier that keeps your skin hydrated and protected. If your skin is sensitive or easily irritated, be sure to use a gentle exfoliator that’s suitable for all skin types like the Cure Aqua Gel Exfoliator. It gently removes the dull, dry surface of your skin to achieve smooth, youthful glowing skin.
Apply Moisturizer and Sunscreen Right After Washing Your Face
The trick to having hydrated skin throughout the day is to apply moisturizer while your skin is still a little damp from cleansing as this helps to lock even more moisture and hydration into your skin. Even if you have acne, go for a dermatologist-approved moisturizer, and don’t skip the moisturizer step. Always remember to apply sunscreen with at least SPF 30 on top of your moisturizer if it doesn’t come with SPF.