Basic Facial Cleansing Technique

Basic Facial Cleansing Technique

• Make sure your hands are clean before you begin. If they’re not, wash them first.
• Wrap your hair in a towel or use elastics, barrettes, or a headband to keep your hair out of your face while cleansing.
• Use lukewarm water and a good facial cleanser to wash your face.
• Gently rub the cleanser into your face using circular motions.
• Massage your face with your fingers to promote good circulation.
• Use a washcloth or loufa to help gently scrub and exfoliate your skin.
• Rinse well with lukewarm water. Make sure all the soap is off your neck and ears, and has been cleaned from around your eyes and nose, and your hairline.
• Splash cool water on your face to refresh your skin and close your pores.
• Pat your skin dry with a towel, but leave some moisture on the skin.
• Moisturize immediately so that your moisturizer can seal the moisture into your skin.

If you have a skin condition, talk to your dermatologist about the best techniques and types of products to use when washing your face. For example, the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) recommends that people with rosacea let the face dry thoroughly before applying any topical medication or moisturizers. They should also steer clear of facial cleansers that contain alcohol, witch hazel, salicylic acid, fragrance, and certain oils, according to the National Rosacea Society. On the other hand, the AAD acknowledges that products containing alcohol and acetone, salicylic acid, or benzoyl peroxide are likely to benefit people with acne. For people with inflammatory skin conditions, like eczema, the AAD warns against excessive washing and encourages people to pay special attention even to mild cleansers, since they can irritate the skin and worsen eczema symptoms.

Washing your face properly with a mild cleanser will help remove makeup and clear away the day’s dirt and excess oil build-up, leaving your skin fresh, clean, and beautiful.