6 Rules for Washing Your Face

The process of washing your face every day might seem like an overly simple one, but it’s important to actually follow through with it if you want to maintain good skin. Here are six rules to keep in mind when washing your face to avoid damaging your skin or making matters worse. Also check out these great skin tips for winter

Choose the Right Cleanser for You

There are two main types of cleansers: oil-based and water-based. Oil-based cleansers remove oils, cosmetics, and make up more effectively than water-based cleansers. Water-based cleansers contain emulsifiers that help wash away oils without drying out your skin. Choose your type based on your skin type—those with oily skin should choose an oil-based cleanser; those with dry or sensitive skin should choose a water-based formula.

Don’t Rinse Your Face With Hot Water

Hot water can dry out your skin, cause you to scrub harder with your face cloth, and open up pores that harbor bacteria. Use warm water to wash your face. The temperature of a hot shower may be too hot—even if it doesn’t feel like it—so adjust accordingly. Avoid soap : There are plenty of all-natural soaps on the market now that are both gentle and effective. Look for products that don’t contain sulfates (SLS) or any other harsh chemicals. If you prefer to use bar soap, make sure to wet your hands thoroughly before using them directly on a bar; otherwise, you run a greater risk of drying out and irritating your skin. Never Rinse With Cold Water: Cold water is better at closing pores than warm or hot water.

Wash Your Face Twice a Day

In fact, ideally you should be washing your face in two different ways: once in the morning and once at night. Ideally, it’s good to give your skin a quick rinse with water in order to get rid of any makeup or dirt that might have accumulated over night. For example, I usually wash my face before putting on my makeup, then again after I take it off before bed. This helps make sure that all of your oils are removed and that you’re giving your skin some much-needed rest.

Use Eye Makeup Remover to Remove Heavy Makeup

It’s important to have one dedicated product for removing your eye makeup. You don’t want to be rubbing a product used on your eyes around other parts of your face. A great way to do that is with an eye makeup remover, which you can find at any drugstore, or even make yourself if you’re feeling crafty. It’s just a few drops of oil in some water and then you’ll use an old towel or washcloth to wipe it off gently. But don’t soak! That will just cause unnecessary irritation.

Use a Clean Towel That’s Only for Your Face

The skin on your face is delicate and shouldn’t come into contact with fabrics that have been contaminated with oil, dirt, or other impurities. The best way to avoid that is to use a clean towel (ideally, just one towel) dedicated to your face-washing needs. If you’re only using one towel, be sure it’s completely clean before using it. If possible, keep it in a separate bag from your bath towels to reduce any cross-contamination. And always wash your face before bed!

Don’t Forget to Use Moisturizer After Cleansing

Cleansing is a necessary step to clear your skin of impurities and pore-clogging sebum. However, it is important to remember that it can also strip moisture from your skin, leaving it dry and vulnerable. That’s why moisturizing after cleansing is so important! Products like toners and serums add nutrients back into your skin without filling pores with excess gunk. If you have oily or combination skin, a lightweight moisturizer will keep oils at bay without suffocating pores—like Clinique’s Dramatically Different Moisturizing Gel . For dry or sensitive skin, look for thicker moisturizers.