As we go about our day-to-day lives, our skin acts as our first line of defense against visible (and invisible) foreign entities such as oils, dirt, bacteria and more. When left unmanaged, this unwanted debris can build up, creating a layer that leads to skin issues like breakouts and obstructs the effectiveness of the skin care products you apply. 

Though it may sound far from revolutionary, adopting a proper daily face-washing routine can help boost your skin’s health and appearance.

Here are some simple and easy steps to a cleaner, healthier face.

Choose the right cleanser.

A proper face-washing technique means doing more than splashing your face with water. To help cleanse your skin, it’s necessary to supplement a cleanser for added support. Choose gentle, non-abrasive cleansers to avoid skin irritation. These are products that do not contain alcohol.

Always listen to your skin when experimenting with a new cleanser. If you develop symptoms out of the ordinary, it may be that your chosen product does not agree with your skin type. Consult with your board-certified dermatologist for recommendations on what cleansers may be best for you.

Be gentle when applying your cleanser.

Though it acts as the body’s shield, our skin is sensitive to certain stimuli and can easily irritate depending on your skin type. The American Academy of Dermatology Association (AAD) recommends cleansers be applied with none other than your fingertips, washcloth or a mesh sponge. 

Avoid scrubbing your skin when exfoliating as this can also lead to irritation. A little can go a long way when using your cleanser. Remember not to over-apply. Begin by working the cleanser into a lather and then gently applying it to the entire face.

Avoid extreme temperatures when washing and rinsing.

Similar to extreme weather, hot and cold water can actually damage skin. If the water is too hot, you may strip your skin’s natural oils and dry it out. If it’s too cold, your pores may not open, which will make it difficult to remove dirt trapped inside. 

Avoid these extreme temperatures when possible and instead opt for lukewarm water when washing and rinsing your skin. When drying off, pat with a towel instead of vigorously scrubbing.

Apply moisturizer to finish off your routine.

After you’ve finished your cleanse, finish your routine by applying moisturizer. This will act as an added defense for your skin barrier and helps to both reduce skin dryness or help it avoid it. Moisturizing your skin can also help to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and leave skin feeling softer.

If you have questions about skin care issues or developing a proper skin care routine, Charleston Dermatology is here for you. Contact us today to schedule a visit with one of our board-certified dermatologists and visit our website to explore all of our skin care services.