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The importance of face washing
Thu, 02/26/2009 - 21:59 — Anonymous
Most people wash their face on a daily basis. Those suffering from acne might be a little more conscious about it because it makes sense that a clean face is one of the first steps in acne treatment. But perhaps the importance of this is not quite so apparent. The truth is that we should pay very careful attention to how and how often we wash our face. We should develop a regimen and stick to it.
How often you wash your face is important. Oils and dirt build up quickly, and the more often you can remove them the better. Washing your face and body two or three times per day is a very good idea. You also want to pay attention to what you wash your face with. Soaps and creams developed specifically as acne treatments or acne face washes are ideal. Look for products with benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid. These are proven acne treatment ingredients. Also be sure to use a mild product that isn't going to dry out your face. Dry skin causes the face to overreact and produce extra oil, thus exacerbating acne. Finally, be gentle with your skin. You are not fighting the skin itself, but the acne causing dirt, oil, and bacteria on your skin. Gentle washing is enough to remove these elements but not irritate the skin itself. And be sure to apply a lotion after washing to replace any moisture and natural, healthy oils you did remove. Pick something that matches your skin type and is formulated to work in a home acne treatment program.
Comments
So true!
This is so true...a couple years ago I never paid much attention to washing my face...finally decide to pay attention. I got into a good routine and had a dramatic improvement. Now anytime I get lax I notice things get worse...gottta stay on it!
Wash your hands, too
Okay, here's something most of us never think about. Most of us wash our faces like we're supposed to (or close anyways). And we've all heard the warning not to touch your faces. But how realistic is that? You have an itch, or a hair hanging down on your forehead, and you don't even think about it. Viola, you touch your face and transfer nasty acne causing oil and dirt to your beautiful skin. So here's another thing to add to your ongoing upkeep:
Wash your hands!
Wash your hands throughout the day! Use something gentle and moisturizing so you don't destroy your hands in the process, but do it often.
Also, be sure to wash your hands right before you wash your face, otherwise your washing both at the same time and, who knows, maybe making your facial skin worse in the process.
Good luck everyone!