How to Wash Your Face – The First Step in Your Skin Care Routine

There are so many different types of cleansers available today. It really does not matter which type you use. One is not necessarily better than the other. It is a matter of preference. What type do you like the best? Skin care is so much easier today than it used to be. Pick a type and try it. If you don't like it then try another. This is what I have done to determine that my preference is a creamy cleanser. I will use a cleansing wipe if I am really tired at night but always follow up the next morning with the real deal.

Some Rules of Thumb -

• Dry skin – use a cleanser with added moisturizers like glycerin or shea butter.
• Oily skin – a foaming wash that leaves your skin with a fresh clean feeling may be best.
• Avoid using cleansers with fragrance in them. They can irritate your skin.
• Avoid using harsh soap – it really dries out your skin.

Types of Cleansers Include -

• Milks
• Foaming Mouses
• Oils
• Wipes
• Motorized Brushes
• Creams

Washing your face should be a two step process if you wear makeup. If you don't wear makeup then you are down to just one step.

1. Remove all your makeup before cleansing your face. It is better to use an oil or cream to remove your makeup. It comes off so much easier this way. I would also suggest using an eye makeup remover to take off your mascara. This can be difficult to remove with anything else. Especially if you wear waterproof mascara. This can be quick and easy.

2. Use a small amount of cleanser and lukewarm water to wash your face. Use your fingertips or a soft washcloth. Rinse and pat dry.

Tips -

• Avoid extremely hot or cold water as it can irritate rosacea and redness.
• Mild steam helps to soften hardened oil in pores – it is a good idea to cleanse your face in the shower.

It is not necessary to wash your face twice a day unless you have really oily skin. Normal, combination, and dry skin should only be washed once a day. I would suggest it be done at night. Those of you with oily skin should wash in the morning and at night. Over washing your face can cause it to dry out and cause irritation. I always suggest a quick wash after working out to keep from breaking out.   

I would suggest that you exfoliate once per week and do it carefully. There are some great cleansers that have tiny beads within the cleanser that are just enough to exfoliate while you clean your face. This is great as they are not too harsh for your skin and you can do it every day without irritation. Only use a grainy scrub once per week or every other week. These can really irritate your skin if over used. An alternative to grainy scrubs is using salicylic or glycolic acid cleansers. These offer anti-aging benefits as well as prevents breakouts.

Toners are not necessary but sure do feel good after cleansing your skin. Toners can also remove the left over dirt and makeup not removed by cleansing. Make sure to avoid the alcohol based toners. They strip your skin of its natural oils. Gentle toners calm the skin and balance pH levels. If you are one that needs a toner then please use a gentle one.