How Should I Wash My Face?

Washing your face is a relatively simple hygienic routine, yet many people do not do it properly. Dermatologists across the country find that most people fall into one of two categories: either they do not take the time to wash their face regularly or they are too aggressive when it comes to cleaning.

Your face has some of the most delicate skin on the entire body, yet many people make the mistake of thinking that only a harsh cleanser that “feels” like it is working will do the job to clean their face. This could not be farther from the truth! Harsh cleansers and astringents that cause a stinging or burning sensation are actually harming the skin more than they are helping it. Stinging and burning are signs of harmful stripping of the skin, which leaves it more susceptible to breakouts. Gentle cleansers such as Cetaphil are highly recommended for those who suffer from acne as well as those with clear skin.

You also need to be gentle with how you wash your face. A common mistake that people make is scrubbing their face until it is red in order to “really clean” the face. In actuality, it only takes a light touch to wash the face. Cleanser should be applied in a circular motion with the fingertips and massaged into the face for approximately one minute. Another thing that people get wrong with washing their face is that they apply their cleanser, and then immediately take a washcloth and scrub it off. Allowing the cleanser to do its job is very important, yet it requires a little patience.

Those with acne should wash their face with a gentle cleanser in the morning when they wake up and in the evening before they go to bed. For those with clear skin, you can wash your face once a day in the evenings in order to remove the dirt, makeup, and grime that has accumulated all day.

Washing the face is a much less complicated routine than many people make it out to be. At Medical Dermatology Specialists in Atlanta, we are here to help patients find the best skin care routine with the gentlest, yet most effective, products. Call our practice to schedule an appointment, and be on your way to the skin that you have always wanted.