Dr. Joel Schlessinger

Most people don’t even think about their technique when they are cleansing their face. After cleansing twice a day for years, it becomes second nature. Using the right technique, however, can help prepare your skin for other treatments and create a healthy, radiant complexion. Follow the recommended steps from Joel Schlessinger MD to get the most out of your face wash.

Joel Schlessinger MD recommends at least 30 seconds of cleansing, no more than twice a day.

Before you cleanse, wash your hands thoroughly. Dirt, oil, bacteria and grease on your hands and fingertips can transfer to your skin even if you are using a purifying or antibacterial face wash. At night, remove any eye makeup before you use your cleanser. Use a makeup remover designed for the eye area rather than your regular cleanser because it may irritate skin. When you are cleansing, use tepid water because water that is too hot will strip the skin of moisture and cause irritation.

“I recommend that my patients not use a washcloth when cleansing,” says Joel Schlessinger MD. “This is very irritating to the skin and ends up causing dry areas and even sores. Additionally, it frequently harbors bacteria that can make the face break out even more.”

With most cleansers, you only need to use a dime-size amount to wash the entire face. Gently massage the product into your skin with your finger tips for at least thirty seconds to thoroughly remove any makeup and debris. Once you are finished, splash your face with cool water to remove all of the cleanser and close your pores.

Correctly cleansing is crucial for experiencing the full benefits of your skin care products, says Joel Schlessinger MD.

If you are not properly purifying your skin, dead skin cells, debris, dirt and oil may be accumulating in your pores. This prevents anti-aging, acne and other skin treatments from thoroughly treating the complexion. Whether your skin is dry, oily, normal or combination, cleansing is one of the most important steps in any skin care routine.

Questions for Joel Schlessinger MD? Ask in the comments section.