Skin cleansing is the most fundamental step in any skin care routine. We need to cleanse our skin every day to remove sweat, makeup residue, sebum, sunscreen residue, and environmental pollutants that accumulate on the skin throughout the day. However, when it comes to skin cleansing, the idea that “more is better” can lead us in the wrong direction. On the contrary, washing the skin more frequently than necessary, using harsh and abrasive products, or turning cleansing into a kind of purification ritual can damage the skin’s natural protective barrier. So, how should proper skin cleansing be performed? Medical Aesthetics Specialist Dr. Lida Çiteli, who provides care to patients in Istanbul, explains the common misconceptions about skin cleansing.
Does Tightness After Cleansing Mean That the Skin Has Been Thoroughly Cleaned?
No. If your face feels tight after cleansing, this may indicate that your skin has lost more moisture than it should. Cleansing products can remove some of the skin’s natural oils while removing dirt and excess sebum. Harsh cleansing products and frequent face washing may cause dryness, irritation, or damage to the skin barrier. Therefore, having skin that feels extremely dry or tight after cleansing is not the result we want. The goal is for the skin to feel clean and refreshed after cleansing without feeling tight.
Does Washing the Skin More Often Make It Cleaner?
No. People with oily or acne-prone skin may be tempted to wash their face repeatedly throughout the day. However, washing the face too frequently does not necessarily mean that the skin will be cleaner or healthier. The face should generally be washed twice a day and additionally cleansed after excessive sweating. Washing acne-prone skin more frequently may lead to irritation. The goal of skin cleansing is not to remove every trace of oil from the skin, but to gently remove excess sebum, dirt, and makeup residue.
Does Hot Water Open the Pores and Cold Water Close Them?
No. One of the most common misconceptions about skin cleansing is that pores can be opened and closed by changing the temperature of the water. It is not possible to open pores with hot water and close them with cold water. Very hot water can cause certain problems for the skin. It can reduce skin moisture and lead to dryness and irritation. Therefore, it is preferable to use lukewarm water when cleansing your face.
Does Rubbing the Skin Remove Dirt More Effectively?
No. Many people believe that the more vigorously they apply a cleanser to their face, the more thoroughly their skin will be cleansed. However, this is a significant misconception. Rubbing or scrubbing the skin or using harsh brushes can cause irritation. Cleansers should be applied gently to the skin using the fingertips. Especially if you have sensitive or acne-prone skin, it is important to remember the difference between cleansing and excessive friction.
If You Are Not Wearing Makeup, Do You Still Need to Cleanse Your Skin?
Makeup is not the only reason we need to cleanse our skin. Throughout the day, environmental pollutants, sweat, sebum, and sunscreen residue accumulate on the skin. Therefore, the skin should still be cleansed even on days when you do not wear makeup.
Should Everyone Double Cleanse Their Skin?
Double cleansing is generally recommended for people who wear makeup or use water-resistant sunscreen. In the first step, an oil-based cleanser or micellar water is used to remove makeup and oil-based residues from the skin. The skin is then cleansed with a gentle cleansing product. However, this does not mean that everyone needs to use two different cleansers every evening. On days when you are not wearing makeup, a single-step cleansing routine may be sufficient. Otherwise, unnecessary double cleansing may increase the risk of dryness and irritation.
Shouldn’t Oil-Based Cleansers Be Used on Oily Skin?
Although the idea that “oil attracts oil” may sound somewhat counterintuitive, oil-based cleansing products can help remove makeup residue, sunscreen, and sebum from the skin. However, what matters is choosing a product that is appropriate for your skin structure and skin type. Therefore, having oily skin does not mean that you cannot use oil-based cleansers. However, if you have acne-prone skin, it may be preferable to choose non-comedogenic formulas that are less likely to clog pores.
Does Keeping the Cleanser on the Skin Longer Make It More Effective?
No. Although recommendations such as washing the face for 60 seconds are frequently encountered today, there is no universally applicable cleansing duration that is ideal for everyone. The ingredients in the cleansing product, the individual’s skin type, and their daily routine may all affect the ideal cleansing time. If you are using medicated cleansers containing active ingredients such as salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide, you should follow the product’s instructions for use. On the other hand, there is generally no need to leave a gentle daily cleanser on your skin for an extended period of time.
