What could be so mysterious about washing your face? It’s just something you do and then forget about, right? Sure, cleansing your face isn’t the most interesting skincare step, nor does it usually involve luxurious products that cost a lot of money and make big claims about its anti-aging ingredients. But that doesn’t mean there isn’t a right, wrong, and way better way to do it. Natalia Sadowski, a licensed medical aesthetician, skincare therapist and Director of Aesthetics and Education for Nourishing Biologicals, spoke with SHEFinds.com about some of the biggest face-washing mistakes you could be making in your twenties that may affect how your skin looks in your forties (and beyond). The good news is: these errors are simple to remedy and getting on board with the best skincare routine of your life is just a few (super simple) steps away.
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As someone who once struggled with problematic skin herself, Sadowski is now tasked with focusing on using products that contain the highest quality ingredients and she says there are three common mistakes she noticed people making in their cleaning routine — starting with failing to recognize that as the seasons change, your skincare routine must change with it.
“From summer’s humidity to the cold, dry winter months, your skin needs different ingredients,” Sadowski says. “A gel or foaming cleanser may have worked wonders on your skin in the summer, but these types of cleansers are almost sure to dry out your skin in the winter months! Something as simple as switching to a cream cleanser will add some much-needed moisture back into your face.”
Avoid Hot Water
Another important tip is to avoid cleansing with hot water, as tempting as it can feel on your skin. “I love a hot shower as much as the next girl, but using hot water on your skin can actually harm it, rather than benefit it,” Sadowski says. “Using hot water can strip the skin of oil which is necessary for a healthy and smooth complexion. Instead, opt for using lukewarm water when you shower and cleanse your skin.”
Avoid Alcohol-Based Toners
Always check the ingredients label on your skincare products and run from anything that contains alcohol, especially if you already have dry or sensitive skin.
“While all alcohol-based toners are not bad for your skin, it’s likely that if your skin is on the normal/dry end of the spectrum, these harsh toners are stripping your skin and drying it out,” Sadowski says. “There are great alcohol-free toning options that will still remove excess dirt, oil, and makeup from your face without drying it.”
With these don’t’s out of the way, how should you be cleansing your face for the best results? Sadowski recommends the following:
*Double cleanse your skin at night. Double cleansing your skin ensures that you are removing all makeup, grime, bacteria and pollutants from your skin and allow better product penetration.
*Begin using gentle products with retinyl acetate on alternate days to help improve the signs of aging and uneven pigmentation
*Exfoliate twice weekly (depending on your age) to improve cellular turnover to help brighten, smooth, and clear your skin. Also improve fine lines, wrinkles, and skin tone
*Always wear Broad Spectrum SPF before going outside. This will help protect your skin from both UVA and UVB rays that cause aging and skin damage.
