The quest for healthy, glowing skin requires proper skin cleansing. This essential routine not only helps maintain the freshness of the skin but also prevents various skin problems. In this article, we will explore in detail how to perform effective skin cleansing, with emphasis on the importance of understanding different skin types, the use of fruit acids, extracting blackheads, choosing a suitable moisturizer, and much more.
Why clean your skin?
- Elimination of impurities and toxins
The skin is constantly exposed to an environment filled with pollutants, dust and fine particles. These impurities can build up on the skin's surface, blocking pores and hindering the skin's natural regeneration process. Cleansing the skin acts as a protective shield, removing these impurities to allow the skin to breathe and function at its optimal potential.
- Prevention of skin problems
Regular skin cleansing significantly contributes to the prevention of various skin problems. The buildup of oil, dead skin cells and bacteria can lead to conditions such as acne, blackheads and pimples. By cleansing the skin, we reduce the chances of these problems, thereby promoting clear and glowing skin.
- Regulation of sebum production
For those who have skin prone to excessive oil production, cleansing the skin is a crucial step. Excess oil can clog pores, leading to skin problems such as acne and blackheads. Regular cleansing helps regulate sebum production, maintaining a healthy balance and preventing unwanted breakouts.
- Stimulate blood circulation
The process of cleansing facial skin often involves delicate massages. These circular movements stimulate blood circulation, thus promoting the supply of oxygen and essential nutrients to skin cells. Improved blood circulation contributes to more radiant skin and increased cell regeneration.
- Preparing the skin for absorption of treatments
Thorough cleansing of the skin creates a clean, receptive canvas, ready to absorb the benefits of skincare products. Whether applying a hydrating serum or nourishing cream, clean skin maximizes the effectiveness of products, ensuring optimal hydration and long-lasting results for clear, smooth skin.
- Prevention of premature aging
The natural aging process can be accelerated by the buildup of free radicals and toxins on the skin's surface. By removing these unwanted elements, skin cleansing helps prevent premature aging, promoting youthful, healthy-looking skin.
- Eliminate blackheads, microcysts or closed comedones
Blackheads , also called open comedones , are the result of the accumulation of sebum and dead cells in the pores.
Closed comedones , also known as whiteheads, are one of the skin lesions associated with acne. They form when hair follicles in the skin become clogged with dead skin cells, oil (sebum), and sometimes bacteria. Unlike open comedones, blackheads, closed comedones have a small opening on the surface of the skin that is often difficult to see with the naked eye. Because of this small opening, the sebum and skin cells obstructing the follicle remain below the surface of the skin, creating a small white bump.
Microcysts , on the other hand, are small skin lesions located below the surface of the skin. They form when hair follicles become clogged with sebum, dead skin cells and sometimes bacteria, creating a small bump under the skin. They usually do not have a visible opening on the surface of the skin.
Removing these imperfections can be done using gentle methods to avoid damaging the skin. When it comes to blackheads, using steam to open the pores before extracting can make the process easier. However, it is crucial to do this carefully to avoid irritation.
How often should you wash your face?
Every day, mornings and evenings!
Proper cleansing removes impurities, allowing the skin to breathe and renew itself. On the other hand, washing your face every day with tap water and soap, followed by vigorous drying and without applying moisturizer, weakens the epidermal barrier. To remedy this, the recommended solution is to adopt a gentle approach to facial cleansing, using suitable products, as part of a complete skincare routine.
How to wash your face?
Washing your face is a crucial step in your skincare routine that aims to remove impurities, excess oil and makeup residue. Here is a step-by-step guide to effective face washing:
- Choose the Right Cleaner
Select a gentle cleanser suited to your skin type. Cleansing gels, foams or lotions are suitable for most skin types.
- Prepare your Face
Wet your face with warm water to open the pores. Avoid water that is too hot, as it can dry out the skin.
- Apply the Cleaner
Place a small amount of cleanser on your clean hands. Distribute it gently over your face, avoiding the eye area.
- Massage Delicately
Make gentle circular movements with your fingertips. Focus on the T zone (forehead, nose, chin) where pores tend to be more visible.
- Focus on Problem Areas
If you have blackheads or acne-prone areas, pay special attention to these areas without excessive scrubbing.
- Rinse Thoroughly
Use lukewarm water to rinse the cleanser from your face. Make sure any product residue is completely removed.
- Dry Gently
Gently pat your face dry with a clean towel. Avoid rubbing vigorously, this may irritate the skin.
- Apply moisturizer
After deep cleansing, applying a moisturizer is essential to maintain the skin's moisture balance. Even oily skin requires adequate hydration to prevent excessive sebum production. Choose a moisturizer suited to your skin type to ensure clean, clear and well-nourished skin.
What to wash your face with?
- Cleansing and make-up removing oils
They are suitable for sensitive and dry skin because they can be used without cotton and therefore without friction.
An essential aspect of effective skin cleansing is the use of fruit acids. Glycolic acid and salicylic acid are notable examples, known for their ability to deeply exfoliate the skin and remove dead cells. Regular exfoliation refines skin texture and reduces dullness. Products containing these acids are often included in cleansers and masks to provide gentle but effective exfoliation, suitable for all skin types.
- Micellar water
Micellar water has gained popularity as a skin cleansing essential. Its light, non-greasy formula makes it ideal for removing makeup and deep cleansing without damaging the skin. Suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin, micellar water offers a gentle alternative to traditional cleansers. Its regular use helps maintain clean and refreshed skin. Attention ! Micellar water is not a makeup remover.
What active ingredients should you use to exfoliate your face?
For exfoliated, smooth skin, nothing better than salicylic acid, fruit enzymes and probiotics. As for niacinamide, it will help soothe your skin, reduce inflammation and balance sebum production, completing the exfoliating action.
If you are creating your skin cleanser at home, it is essential to choose suitable ingredients. Start by incorporating a gentle exfoliating agent such as brown sugar or apricot kernel powder to gently remove dead skin cells. Next, add a liquid base like sweet almond oil or jojoba oil to hydrate and nourish the skin. Also incorporate soothing ingredients such as aloe vera to reduce any potential irritation.
