7 Things You Must Avoid When Washing Your Face

Most people, especially young teenagers and adults strive to have beautiful looking skin. They think by scubbing their face with normal body soap or even harsher methods will help them get rid of dirt and bacteria eliminating acne, blemishes and red spots. But in many case they are going about it the wrong way...the face needs to be washed correctly.

Here are several things that you should avoid when washing your face. Remember that it is our aim to make your skin healthier and beautiful.

1. Do not wash your face too often.

Washing your face does not mean you have to wash it every hour of the day... Experts recommend ONLY two or three times per day. Frequent washing may dry out your skin thus increasing your risk to irritations that may even cause acne. Moreover, if the skin is too dry, your glands will produce more oil to compensate for this loss. This means that the risk of getting too much sebum also increases.

2. Do not use harsh soaps and cleansers.

Never use bar soaps or bar cleansers. The ingredients that keep these soaps and cleansers in bar form can clog your pores and irritate your skin... plus, they can help foster breakouts. Harsh soap and cleansers can strip off the skin’s natural lipids thus irritate your skin. Choose cleansers that are mild and non-comedogenic, hypo-allergenic, and soap-free. There are several products like this in the market like Cetaphil, Burt Bee’s or Neutrogena. Dilute your cleanser with enough water when you wash... The less concentrated your cleanser, the gentler it will be.

3. Do not use too much cleanser.

Even if you are using mild cleansers, it is best to dilute it with water (a palmful will be sufficient). The less concentrated your cleanser, the gentler it will be for your face.

4. Do not use cleansers containing alcohol.

Alcohol will upset your face’s natural ph level, thus causing irritation. Using toners and astringents may feel wonderful... but over-using these will irritate your skin!

5. Do not just use products. Instead, know your skin type.

For dry skin, look for products with cocoa butter or glycerin. For oily skin, look for products with benzoyl peroxide, citric acid or salicylic acid. For sensitive skin, look for aloe vera, almond oil or chamomile.

6. Do not under rinse. Residues left behind can actually clog your pores.

Facial cleansers can leave an invisible residue behind which can clog your pores. First rinse your skin with warm water to open the pores to get rid of the residue Rinse three times, then rinse again! Then splash on cold water to close the pores before adding any make-up.

7. Do not exfoliate often.

Removing dead skin cells can make your skin less dull but you should not overdo it or you will injure your skin. Too much scrubbing will make your skin dull and flaky. Avoid abrasive facial pads and grainy facial scrubs.

Remember, in everything that you do, simplicity and moderation is often the key. Do not abuse your skin. Go easy and gentle. And put your best face forward.