Washing your face should be a part of your daily routine but are you doing it properly?
Washing your face is one of the most vital skincare steps to get correct, but we often devote more time to deciphering which serums to use. However, those serums will hardly matter if you’re not washing your face correctly! As the first step to any skincare routine, cleansing ensures you start with fresh and clean skin that will help keep it clear and help with the absorption of products.
These seven rules for washing your face will guide you to clearer, healthier skin. Follow them closely, twice a day!
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1. Before you begin
Before we even get to your face you’ll need to look down at your hands. You wouldn’t clean your face with a dirty rag, so why with dirty hands? Wash your hands first so you’re not rubbing more dirt onto your face.
2. Water
Watch the water temperature. It’s tempting to use hot water when washing your face but this will easily strip your skin of its natural oils. Lukewarm water will loosen sebum without stripping and dehydrating the skin, but those prone to redness should opt for cool water.
3. Cleanse x2
This one is thanks to Korean beauty: double cleansing. For a thorough but gentle approach to washing your face we cannot recommend the double cleansing method enough! Sunscreen, makeup and other grime that can settle on your skin during the day is tough to remove completely. Enter the double cleansing method. First, wash your face with an oil-based cleanser, then follow with a water-based cleanser. Your skin will be left perfectly clean, soft and ready for your serums and moisturisers.
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4. Technique
Take your time and – as is a common theme here – be gentle with your skin. No fast, vigorous scrubbing when washing your face! Massaging in a circular motion for a full 60 seconds with your oil-based cleanser and again with your water-based cleanser will give each enough time to do its job well. Plus, gentle massaging stimulates your lymphatic system, which encourages oxygen and blood circulation, all great for your skin!
5. Get all the nooks and crannies
There are two places that are commonly neglected when washing your face: your hairline and neck. If you’re placing makeup all the way into the start of your hairline, you need to be removing it too. Same with your neck.
6. Drying
When patting your face dry (the emphasis here is on patting!), it’s the same rule as number one – make sure the towel is clean! Keep a hand towel dedicated to washing your face and replace it often. Don’t let your hard work go to waste by using a towel full of impurities.
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7. Lather up
Once you’re done washing your face, dry air pulls moisture out of the bare, unprotected skin. It’s recommended to place your masks, serums and moisturisers all within one minute of washing your face to avoid dehydrating your skin. Achieve this by keeping your products close, and not getting distracted in the bathroom mirror!
Compiled by Savanna Douglas
Also see: Why vitamin c is important in your skin care routine
