Face Wash 101: Have You Been Doing It Right?

Photo source: Freepik

You double cleanse. You never sleep in your makeup. You’re diligent about your skincare. But... are you actually washing your face the right way?

Let’s clear up the myths and break down proper facial cleansing—because healthy skin starts with a clean canvas, and cleansing is more fun (and effective!) when you know the hows and whys.

🌟 Step 1: Cleansing Isn’t Optional—It’s Essential

Whether you’ve rocked a full glam look or just SPF, double (even triple!) cleansing is the name of the game.

Every day, your skin picks up:

• Pollution and dust

• Extra oil and sweat

• Sunscreen and makeup leftovers

• Dead skin cells (ew!)

  
  

Here’s how to do it right:

1. Start with a cleansing oil or balm

   • Oily or acne-prone skin? Try a cleansing balm to gently break down grime.

   • Heavy makeup? Go for cleansing oil—it dissolves it like magic

     
     

2. Swipe with micellar water

   • This step grabs what’s left behind and preps your skin for the final cleanse.

     
     

3. Finish with your go-to gentle facial cleanser

   • Foamy, milky, or gel—choose one that vibes with your skin type.

     
     

Yes, triple cleansing is a thing. Especially if you live in a city or wear layers of skincare/makeup.

🧴 Step 2: Pick Your Potion (aka Cleanser)

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Let’s match your skin to the perfect formula:

• Foam cleansers: Great for oily skin—just go sulfate-free.

• Milk or cream cleansers: Hello, dry or sensitive skin besties.

• Gel cleansers: A versatile pick for combo skin.

• AHA/BHA cleansers: Gently exfoliate, but skip these if you're already using strong actives elsewhere in your routine.

  
  

If your skin is feeling tight or tingly, it's time to scale back on actives. A basic, fragrance-free cleanser might be your skin’s new BFF.

💆‍♀️ Step 3: It’s All in the Technique

It’s not just what you use—it’s how you use it.

🕐 Spend at least 60 seconds cleansing. Set a timer—it’s longer than you think! Use clean hands or a soft cloth, and give yourself a gentle face massage while you’re at it.

🎯 Don’t forget these easy-to-miss spots:

• Base of the nose (hello, blackheads!)

• Lower eyelids (gently, please)

• Along the lash line (a Q-tip can help)

• Lips (especially after lipstick)

• Hairline and neck (don’t let dirt hide there!)

⏰ Step 4: How Often Should You Cleanse?

Twice a day is the sweet spot—morning and night.

• Oily skin? Stick with two cleanses a day.

• Dry or sensitive? Try just water in the morning, full cleanse at night.

Cleansing too often = stripping your natural oils, which = unhappy skin.

🧽 Step 5: Exfoliation—Less is More

Dead skin cells begone—but don’t go overboard!

• 2–3 times a week is perfect for most.

• Choose chemical exfoliants (AHAs/BHAs) over rough scrubs.

• Check your cleanser—some already sneak in exfoliating acids.

Red, stinging, tight skin? That’s your cue to chill on the exfoliation.

🚿 Step 6: Keep It Cool

Skip the steamy wash!

Hot water can dry out your skin and cause broken capillaries. ✅ Use lukewarm or cool water. 🚫 Avoid cleansing your face in hot showers or after saunas.

🧻 Step 7: Drying—Gently Does It

Photo source: Freepik

• No to shared bath towels—they’re bacteria magnets.

• Yes to disposable towels or antimicrobial face cloths.

• Pat dry—don’t rub.

• Don’t air dry—it actually dehydrates your skin.

🧴 For Sensitive Skin: Your Cheat Sheet

🚫 Avoid alcohol, fragrance, or strong acids ✅ Look for pH-balanced, hypoallergenic, fragrance-free formulas ✅ Patch test everything ✅ Hydrate right after cleansing

Dr. Vera Teh

💬 Final Thoughts

Cleansing isn’t just a step—it’s your skin’s first defense. Whether it’s SPF, foundation, or just city grime, wash it all away with a gentle but thorough routine.

Still not sure where to start? Pop by for a personalized skin consult with Dr. Vera! Let’s make face washing fun and effective!

References

1. Ananthapadmanabhan, K. P., Moore, D. J., Subramanyan, K., Misra, M., & Meyer, F. (2004). Cleansing without compromise: the impact of cleansers on the skin barrier and the technology of mild cleansing. Dermatologic therapy, 17 Suppl 1, 16–25. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1396-0296.2004.04s1002.x

2. Draelos Z. D. (2006). The effect of a daily facial cleanser for normal to oily skin on the skin barrier of subjects with acne. Cutis, 78(1 Suppl), 34–40.

3. Lee, J., Sekhon, N., & Shen, H. (2022). 32763 Cleansing efficacy of mild facial cleansers for sensitive skin. Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, 87(3), AB271. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jaad.2022.06.153

4. Mukhopadhyay P. (2011). Cleansers and their role in various dermatological disorders. Indian journal of dermatology, 56(1), 2–6. https://doi.org/10.4103/0019-5154.77542

5. Sensitive skin compatibility of micellar water. (2017). Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, 76(6), AB116. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jaad.2017.04.904