You’re Probably Cleansing Your Face the Wrong Way

While face cleansing may seem like a straightforward task, many of us are doing it the wrong way. From using the wrong product to skipping the process at night or being aggressive when cleansing, it is easy to make unconscious mistakes that could prevent our skin from looking healthy and radiant.

Here are the 7 face cleansing mistakes you probably don’t know you’re making.

1. You’re using the wrong cleanser.

Are you using a cleanser that is formulated for your skin type? Do you know what’s in the product you’re using? How does your skin feel after washing?

It may seem pretty obvious, but you should use a gentle face cleanser or one that suits your skin type. Look for a formula that is both alcohol- and fragrance-free, and avoid using regular bar soaps to wash your face. And more importantly, your face shouldn’t feel squeaky clean afterward, as this is an indication that the essential oils have been stripped away.

If you’re looking for a cleanser, the Dr. Sylvia Skin Care line has a range of products to choose from. 

• Gentle Milk Cleanser – gently cleanses the skin without stripping off moisture. It has a milky texture and creamy consistency that is effective at removing dirt, oil, and impurities. It also contains replenishing emollients and is fragrance-free, making it ideal for dry, irritated, and sensitive skin types.
• Deep Cleanser with AHA – has a deep pore penetrating power, ideal for oily and problematic skin. It contains Glycolic Acid (AHA) that can remove excess oil, exfoliate dead skin cells, and help stimulate the growth of new skin cells. This cleanser is also rich in antioxidants, moisturizing, and skin-soothing ingredients.
• Perfecting Cleanser with Rose Hip Seed – uses natural oils and extracts to thoroughly cleanse the skin. This cleanser is professionally formulated to balance your skin’s natural pH level. It provides deep cleansing without stripping, while also soothing and nourishing the skin, giving it a soft and supple appearance.

2. You’re washing with hot water.

Never wash your face with hot and steamy water. This doesn’t just strip your skin of natural oils, but it can also damage or burst capillaries. A hot cleanse can also make your skin more prone to dryness and irritation, exacerbating other skin care problems like acne or rosacea.

The ideal temperature for face cleansing is warm. Cold water isn’t effective at removing dirt and grime; warm water can help loosen dirt and oil, but doesn’t irritate and dry out your skin. 

3. Your hands are dirty.

Your hands touch a lot of things that harbor a lot of dirt, grime, and germs. From door knobs/handles to your phones and other surfaces, your hands could easily transfer bacteria to your face during cleansing or applying any skincare product.

This is why it only makes sense to clean your hands first before splashing water onto or cleansing your face. It prevents any transfer of germs or bacteria that can lead to breakouts and other skin problems.

For further reading, check out our post on how to stop touching your face, especially if you mindlessly engage in the habit. 

4. You exfoliate too much.

Exfoliation does wonders for your skin, but you shouldn’t overdo it. Exfoliators with grainy or tiny beads/crystals can be harsh on your skin, especially when used frequently. The key is to be gentle with your face and avoid harsh scrubs and exfoliants, so you won’t cause any damage to your skin.

But how often should you exfoliate? There is no definite answer on how frequently you should do it, as everyone’s skin is different. Some may benefit from doing it daily, while others may only need to exfoliate once or twice a week. It is best to mind how your skin responds to exfoliation to find out the right frequency for your skin.

5. You don’t remove your makeup first.

While cleansers can get rid of excess oils, dirt, and makeup on your skin, you shouldn’t assume that they can completely remove all your makeup, especially if you use a lot of it. For your cleanser to serve its purpose (which is to cleanse or wash your face), be sure to remove all traces of makeup first.

Before reaching for your cleanser, use micellar water to clear your face of makeup. Be gentle; don’t rub the skin, especially around the eye area. Check out our previous blog about makeup removal mistakes you should avoid. 

6. You rub it with a towel/washcloth to dry.

Again, be gentle. Pat with dabbing motion and don’t rub. Being aggressive with drying your face can only exacerbate dryness and other skin sensitivities. It can also contribute to skin irritation and inflammation. The right way is to gently dab or pat with a clean towel or washcloth. 

Patting the face very lightly helps make sure that the skin is still slightly damp when you apply your serums or moisturizer. This is beneficial in sealing in hydration and preventing skin dryness or irritation

7. You don’t follow up with a moisturizer.

After cleansing your face, be sure to follow up with a moisturizer or special treatment products to seal in moisture. Don’t wait for your skin to dry out completely before applying, as the best to apply such products is when your skin is slightly damp or moist. This allows for better absorption and helps the moisturizer lock in that hydration. 

Just make sure not to overdo it. Follow the directions on the package to determine how much you should use and how often you should apply. Read our previous post for 5 ways to get the most out of your moisturizer. 

Don’t let face cleansing work against your favor. Make sure to do it right to get the most benefits and choose the right products formulated for your skin type. Browse through our website today for more skincare tips and product recommendations or contact us to schedule a consultation with our aesthetic doctor in Singapore.