Cleansing your face may be a relatively simple procedure, but its importance shouldn’t be underestimated. Proper facial cleansing removes dead skin cells, bacteria, oils and dirt. Washing your face correctly requires that you follow certain steps to ensure it is gently and thoroughly cleaned.
Cleansers
Wash your face twice a day with a mild cleanser. Strong soaps and abrasive scrubs can damage your skin and rob it of necessary oil, according to the Mayo Clinic.
If you have oily skin you may want to use a cleanser that contains salicylic acid, advises the Smart Skin Care website. If your skin is dry, consider washing your face only once a day with a moisturizing cleanser.
Regardless of your skin type, avoid cleansers that contain harsh detergents, according to Smart Skin Care.
Application
Use warm water and your fingertips as your gently apply a mild cleanser to your face. Gently massage your skin in a circular motion. Keep in mind that over-washing and scrubbing can irritate your skin.
Rinsing
Rinse the facial cleanser off your skin with lukewarm water but do not aim the stream of water directly onto your face, advises Smart Skin Care. Splash clean water onto your face to ensure you have completely removed any facial makeup and all remaining residue from the cleanser.
Drying
Once your skin is clean, gently pat dry your face with a clean towel. This allows some moisture to remain on your skin and helps prevent it from drying out.
The University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics says you have about 3 minutes after cleansing your skin to apply a moisturizer before the water has a chance to evaporate.
Moisturize
Apply a moisturizer to your face immediately after washing to help seal in water. Look for one suitable for your skin type that softens the feel and appearance of your skin.
Gently massage the moisturizer into your face with your fingers until it is absorbed.
If you have acne prone skin, the American Academy of Dermatology recommends applying an over-the-counter lotion containing benzoyl peroxide to diminish oil and bacteria.
