Most people utilize a facial cleanser twice daily.  Cleansing your skin well in the morning and evening is the foundation for any good skin care regimen. When choosing a cleanser, it is important that you are aware of your skin’s particular needs.

Moisturizing cleansers aid those with dry skin while cleansers made for sensitive skin are useful for those who are prone to redness and irritation from many products.   Some cleansers have added active ingredients to target specific skin conditions such as benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid for acne prone skin or alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) which encourages exfoliation.

A good product should be able to cleanse your face thoroughly, without the need to “scrub” your face.  If your cleanser of choice does not remove your make-up, you should use a product specifically designed for this purpose first.  The appropriate cleanser should leave you with a “clean” feeling when you are done, however a “tight” feeling after cleansing indicates your skin has been stripped of vital lipids.  A good quality facial cleanser should be non-irritating and non-damaging to the skin.

Experts have differing opinions about how often you should cleanse your face. Some skin types can benefit from a morning-and-night cleansing routine to control excess oil and minimize shine, while the same routine can make others feel dry and tight. Remember, it is a great idea to cleanse at night, and always remove any makeup. Here’s an easy step-by-step guide on how to cleanse your face properly.

STEP 1: MAKEUP REMOVAL
Some patients prefer an oil-based makeup remover, while some prefer a cleansing water or cleansing wipes. This step is particularly important if you wear waterproof makeup.

STEP 2: CLEANSING YOUR FACE
Place a small amount of your cleanser into the palm of your hands and emulsify with lukewarm water. Massage into your skin using circular motions for at least 30 seconds. Be sure to do your whole face including along your hairline, and the front and back of your neck.

STEP 3: RINSE AND PAT TO DRY
It’s important to remember to rinse your face with warm, not hot, water, When you are finished rinsing, gently pat your skin dry with a clean, soft towel.

The most common types of Facial Cleansers

Gel cleansers are clear and, as the name suggests, have a gel-like consistency. Generally designed for deep cleansing, they are effective at decongesting clogged pores, removing excess oil and killing acne-causing bacteria, thanks to their antiseptic and exfoliating properties.

Cream cleansers are usually thick, creamy and contain moisturizing ingredients like botanical oils. They gently cleanse your skin without stripping it of its natural oils. Cream cleansers can also come in the form of “milk” or “lotion.”

Foam cleansers are lightweight cleansers that start out as cream or gel and burst into a rich, foamy lather. This type of cleanser removes excess oil as effectively as gel cleansers.

At Premier Plastic Surgery Center of New Jersey, we carry a variety of medical grade cleansers.  Call our office today at 973-889-9300 to schedule an appointment with one of our Medical Aestheticians to learn which cleanser will meet your skin’s particular needs and start your skin care regimen with the correct product.

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