How to Wash Your Face Properly? Dermatologically Tested Insights

16th January 2025

Face washing seems like a routine task, but digging deep, it is a skin care regime that requires detailed expertise to do properly. The American Academy of Dermatology Association says that proper face washing involves removing makeup from your face, using lukewarm water, and exfoliating gently. Avoid being harsh on your skin, as overtime magic won’t work. So, wash twice daily and let the time run it’s magic. 

What is the Best Way to Deep Cleanse Your Face?

Proper face washing involves multiple steps. The first is to establish an AM and PM routine of washing your face. Dermatologists recommend washing your face at least twice a day, in the morning and before bedtime. Next is to choose a dermatologically tested face wash, learn how much to exfoliate, etc. 

Choose a Suitable Face Wash

Select a facial cleanser based on your skin type. Oily skin benefits from gel-based or foaming cleansers with salicylic acid, while dry skin needs cream-based cleansers with ceramides or hyaluronic acid. 

Did You Know? Mandelic acid face wash reduces acne and acne scars. It is a good choice for treating hyperpigmentation or breakouts. 

Combination skin demands mild, pH-balanced cleansers that maintain the first line of defense. Use odor-free, hypoallergenic formulations with soothing ingredients like aloe vera or chamomile on sensitive skin. Before choosing a face wash, read the ingredients properly and look for brands like Jenpharm that are dermatologically proven to be safe for all skin types. 

Takeaway:

  • Choose a face wash that dermatologists recommend for your skin type.
  • Read the ingredients properly to avoid any side effects or allergic reactions. 

Remove Makeup or Other Applications

Use micellar water, makeup remover, or cleansing oil to clear waterproof makeup deeply. Oil-based removers effectively dissolve oil-soluble impurities while maintaining skin moisture. Micellar water works well for light makeup especially on sensitive skin type. 

Double cleansing ensures complete removal – first with an oil-based remover, followed by your regular cleanser. Pay extra attention to eye makeup, using gentle downward strokes to prevent lash damage.

Takeaway:

  • Remove makeup properly beforehand to avoid leaving any particles on the ace.
  • Use micellar water for deep cleansing.

Use Luke Warm Water to Wet the Face

Lukewarm water (around 98°F) opens pores and softens debris without irritating the skin. Hot water damages the skin barrier and strips essential oils, while cold water doesn’t effectively remove oil-based impurities.

Why not cold water? Skin impurities and oils are not dissolved in cold water. These undissolved oils can clog the pores. Therefore, cold water is not recommended to wash your face. 

Splash water gently against your face rather than rubbing it in. Allow the water to hydrate your skin for 30 seconds before applying the cleanser. This step helps the cleanser spread evenly and work more effectively.

Takeaway:

  • Use lukewarm water to open clogged pores.
  • Splash water gently on your face to avoid any injury.

Massage, but Don’t Rub

Use your fingertips to massage the cleanser in circular motions for 60 seconds, focusing on often-missed areas like the hairline, jawline, and sides of the nose. 

Apply gentle pressure to increase blood flow without causing any damage. Facial massage increases the blood flow to the skin and makes it plumpy and glowy. Start from the center of your face and work outward in circles, following the natural contours. This ensures thorough cleansing while respecting your skin’s delicate structure.

Takeaway:

  • Cleanse your face with a massage in circular motions.
  • Don’t be harsh on your skin; pressure won’t work much here.

Exfoliate Within Limits

Limit exfoliation to 1-2 times weekly for normal skin, less for sensitive skin. Choose between chemical exfoliants (AHAs/BHAs) or gentle physical scrubs with round beads. 

Chemical exfoliants like glycolic acid work by removing skin cells, while physical exfoliants manually remove them. Warning! Never exfoliate irritated or sunburned skin. 

Takeaway:

  • Exfoliate occasionally to keep your skin soft and radiant.
  • Avoid exfoliating damaged skin without a dermatologist’s recommendation. 

Rinse and Pat Dry

Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water for at least 30 seconds, ensuring no cleanser residue remains. Residual products can cause irritation and clog pores. 

Use clean hands to splash water upward rather than letting it run down your face. Pat your face dry with a clean, soft microfiber towel or cotton cloth. Rubbing with a towel creates unnecessary friction and can introduce bacteria. Leave skin slightly damp for better moisturizer absorption.

Takeaway:

  • Rinse the face wash from your face with milk splashes.
  • Pat dry to remove excess water but not by rubbing. 

Apply a Moisturizer

Apply moisturizer within 60 seconds of patting dry to lock in hydration. Choose formulations with humectants like hyaluronic acid for deep hydration and ingredients like ceramides to seal in moisture. Use upward strokes to maintain skin elasticity and prevent sagging. 

Choose a moisturizer suitable for your skin type – lightweight gel for oily skin, richer creams for dry skin. Consider additional treatment serums before moisturizing to target specific skin concerns.

Takeaway:

  • Choose the best moisturizer based on your skin.
  • Apply it properly on your face using circular motions. 

Benefits of Washing Face Deeply

Dermatologists recommend washing your face frequently to help maintain a radiant glow. Some of the other benefits of cleaning your face are:

  • Deeply cleanse the skin
  • Removes dirt and impurities
  • Reduce the risk of developing acne
  • Protects against harmful conditions 

Conclusion

Proper face washing involves various steps, the most important of which is the choice of face wash and how to use it. Use a dermatologist-recommended facial cleanser and read the instructions clearly to avoid any side effects. Consult your dermatologist before trying any product at home if you have acne, rashes, or any particular skin condition. Remember, always treat your skin gently.