If you tend to follow the 10-second 'wet, scrub, rinse, relax' routine when washing your face, it will unfortunately show on your skin. Avoid making these common face-washing mistakes and you could banish that ever-present oiliness, those stubborn blackheads or that irritating dryness for good.
Mistake 1: Using the wrong face wash
Not all skin is created equal: if you haven’t yet identified your skin type and its specific needs, your cleanser of choice could be having the opposite effect to what you intended. Dermatologists recommend a foaming or gel cleanser for oily skin and a creamier cleanser for dry skin. Avoid soap bars though, as they are too drying. Your cleanser should remove excess oil and residue without leaving your skin feeling tight or flaky. If you’re unsure, try Cetaphil Cleansing Lotion, which is recommended by most dermatologists as a mild but effective cleanser that is suitable for every skin type.
Mistake 2: Not washing your hands first
Your hands probably pick up more germs, dirt and grime over the course of the day than any other part of your body, so before transferring that to your face, make sure you give your hands a good scrub with an antibacterial soap like Protex Fresh Liquid Hand Soap. Skincare experts recommend using just your fingertips rather than a face cloth to wash your face. But if you must use a cloth, make sure that is clean too, since damp environments are a breeding ground for bacteria, which can cause acne and other skin irritations.
Mistake 3: Over-exfoliating
Exfoliate, exfoliate, exfoliate for a glowing complexion, right? Wrong. Acids and buffing agents are used to remove dead skin cells to reveal the new, fresh skin beneath, but exfoliating too often can strip that new layer and weaken the skin’s natural barrier. The experts’ advice? Stick to twice a week, alternating with your regular washing and opt for exfoliating products containing salicylic or glycolic acid rather than grainy scrubs, which can be hard on the skin. Look out for products containing benzoyl peroxide if you struggle with acne and greasiness.
Mistake 4: Over-washing
Yes, when it comes to your face there really is such a thing as too much of a good thing. While washing removes the grime of the day, it also strips your skin’s natural oils – which it needs to stay soft and supple. The result? Dry skin that’s also prone to breakouts, as the natural barrier needed to protect it from acne-causing bacteria has been damaged. Whoops! Aim to wash your face in the morning and evening, making exceptions only for when you’ve been swimming or sweating heavily (say, after an intense gym session).
Mistake 5: Not rinsing properly
Rinse your face with lukewarm water (water that is too hot or too cold will shock the skin and can lead to broken capillaries or dryness) until every trace of your cleanser has been washed away. Don’t overlook your hairline and the areas around your ears and neck. Cleanser residue can cause irritation and even clog pores.