Washing seems to be the simplest grooming ritual that we have all mastered back in early childhood. But not everything is so simple. It turns out that improper cleansing of the skin can cause a lot of problems: dryness, irritation, excessive sebum secretion and, as a result, exacerbation of acne.

Quality cleansing is the basis of skin care. Only a face completely freed from makeup and pollution is ready to receive care products. There are 10 common mistakes we make when washing our face. They must be avoided, otherwise even the most expensive creams and serums will not work.

• 1 You choose the wrong means

  The right cleanser should completely remove impurities and make-up, but not squeak clean, stripping your skin of its own protective oils. Standing in front of you no easy task- find a product that effectively cleanses, but does not overdry the skin.

If you have oily or problematic skin, then gel cleansers are the best for you. Owners of normal or sensitive skin it is worth taking a closer look at foams and mousses. If you have very dry skin, then you should buy cream-based cleansers. And remember: Wiping your face with wet wipes is by no means an alternative to washing your face.

• 2 You wash your face too often

  As a rule, washing twice a day is enough - if you do this more often, irritated skin will release even more oil. If you haven't put on any makeup or SPF, or if you've spent the whole day indoors, in the evening you just need to wash your face with warm water.

• 3

  You wash your face with water at the wrong temperature

  There is a common myth that hot water opens pores, while cold water closes them. Pores don't really have muscles to open and close them, and extreme temperatures only upset the skin's natural balance. Water at room temperature is best for gentle yet thorough cleansing.

• 4 You overdo it with exfoliation

  Exfoliation is very helpful, but it's important not to overdo it. Try to abandon the granular scrubs that cause microtrauma to the skin, and instead start using or fruit acids.

• 5 You don't rinse your face enough

  Even if you are in a hurry in the morning or dead tired in the evening, wash your face thoroughly using a large number of water - otherwise the remnants of the foam mixed with dead cells will clog your pores.

Most often, the jaw lines and hair growth, as well as the wings of the nose, are deprived of attention.

• 6 Do you use products with irritating ingredients?

  Read labels carefully and try to use products without dyes and fragrances. Another harmful ingredient is sodium lauryl sulfate (Sodium lauryl sulfate): it is common cause allergic reactions.
  

• 7 You rub your face hard with a towel

  Perhaps this brings a pleasant sensation, but it is very harmful to the skin, as it stretches it. Do not grab a towel for your body or hands, always have a separate one for your face. If you suffer from acne, you should use delicate paper napkins altogether.

It would seem that it can be difficult in this process: you wash yourself, wipe yourself off - and you're done. However, during the performance of this morning procedure, people often make typical mistakes that lead to deterioration of the skin condition.

Too hot or too cold water

"Hot water dries out the skin, while cold water keeps the pores from opening," explains New York City dermatologist Michelle Green. "Warm water - the best option for washing. It must be neither hot nor cold.

Washing too often

Owners of dry skin can wash their face just once a day; bold - a maximum of two. If you perform this procedure more often, the water will dry out the surface of the dermis. Often this leads to the fact that the sebaceous glands begin to work in an enhanced mode to compensate for the lack of sebum.

If you wash your face once a day, dermatologists recommend doing it in the evening, not in the morning. This will cleanse the skin of impurities accumulated during the day. After all, the aging of the cells of the dermis occurs not only due to exposure to sunlight, but also due to pollution.

Frequent exfoliation

A cleanser with exfoliating particles helps to get rid of dead cells, and the face really looks much better. But if you perform this procedure on an ongoing basis, it can cause irritation and dryness. Therefore, dermatologists recommend exfoliating once a week.

Using a soiled towel

Ideally, the face towel should be changed every two days. "Otherwise, bacteria will quickly accumulate and multiply in its humid environment," explains dermatologist Dr. Green. "Even if there is not enough time for this, it is useful to take care of clean towels in advance - for example, having prepared them two weeks in advance."

Too soft towel

The towel should be such that when you touch it, the fibers of the fabric are not felt. If the texture is felt, it indicates too much rigidity.

Use of unsuitable products

Foaming cleansers are good for oily skin. While softer milk is for dry. Those with oily skin can also use products containing salicylic acid. But the same ingredients can be traumatic for dry skin types.

"If you have delicate, sensitive skin, you should avoid using too strong cleansers. problematic skin after washing, it is necessary to use astringent tonics, "explains American dermatologist Dr. Gohara. "There are no bad products - just different products are designed for different skin types."

Using soap based cleansers

You should never replace the usual "wash" with soap or a product made on its basis. Such products dry out the skin, leave it irritated. This does not mean that you can not use any cleansers in the form of a bar. For example, this does not include products like Dove ("Dove"). Therefore, before using the product, you need to familiarize yourself with its composition.

Incorrect application of cleansers

For the most effective cleansing of the skin, it is necessary to rub the products around the circumference. This will improve blood flow. "Such movements replace a short massage and allow you to improve the condition of the skin," emphasizes Dr. Gohara.

Too much friction when washing

The opinion that to clean the pores it is necessary to rub the skin as hard as possible is erroneous. Even if the pores are dirty, you should not do this. "If you use the right remedy for washing, unnecessary rubbing is not required, "explains Dr. Green.

Too much friction when wiping

The skin can be injured during too intensive wiping with a towel. Also, too strong movements can erase the sebum that protects the skin surface from damage.

Application of wet wipes

Sometimes wet wipes are indispensable - for example, on the road. But it is not recommended to use them all the time. They do not cleanse the skin properly and also contain chemicals. After using wipes, be sure to wash your face properly. in the usual way.

Too late use of creams

Best time for applying a moisturizer or serum - immediately after washing. Therefore, do not hesitate to use them. The skin after cleansing procedures is best absorbed useful material. The only exceptions are products aimed at combating acne.

Contamination of the skin with makeup residues

Often, after using decorative cosmetics, girls do not cleanse their face enough. This causes impurities to accumulate in the pores. The skin becomes irritated, inflammation appears. "If you're using a lather, apply just enough to completely cleanse your face. If it's a face wash, spread it in a thick layer over the entire surface of your skin," recommends Dr. Green.

Remaining cleanser on skin

Another common mistake. After washing, it is necessary to properly wash off the remnants of milk or foam from the surface of the skin. This will prevent irritation.

The polluted air of the metropolis is nothing good skin does not promise faces. That is why make-up in big cities is called the first line of defense against aggressive environmental factors. But it also needs to be removed at the end of the day. The skin process in such conditions must be approached with all seriousness.

How to determine that the usual washing is not enough? We list the signs that indicate that the skin needs serious, deep cleansing.

Fundamentals of skin care, classification of procedures

Cleansing procedures can be systematized as follows.

Home daily is a mandatory surface cleansing with make-up remover, as well as gels and foams for washing.

Home weekly - a deeper effect on the skin with the help of gommages, masks.

Cosmetological procedures that involve both hardware techniques and the use of professional preparations.

Rules for daily cleansing

Preparation

The first stage is the removal of make-up, removal of surface contaminants. In the morning, cleansing is no less important than in the evening, since at night metabolic processes are actively going on in the body, internal cleansing and restoration takes place. By the way, the peak production of sebum falls on 4-5 o'clock in the morning. If in the morning after washing, wipe your face with a cotton pad soaked in tonic, the pad will not remain clean.

So, at this stage, use:

It is important to understand that every type of skin needs a cleansing procedure from time to time, not only prone to oiliness. © iStock

washing

At this stage, surface contaminants are removed.

Eliminates the remnants of sebum from the surface of the epidermis.

The particles of cosmetics or other contaminants dissolved at the previous stage are removed.

Everything that remains on the skin after preliminary cleansing is washed off, which ensures the opening of the pores.

Below is a list of cleansers.

Among cosmetic methods, three types of cleaning have proven themselves. © iStock

Cosmetic procedures

Among cosmetic methods, three types of cleaning have proven themselves.

Ultrasonic

As a result of ultrasonic vibrations, keratinized particles are exfoliated from the surface of the skin, microcirculation improves. The procedure is considered gentle, suitable for any type of skin.

vacuum

It can be compared with vacuuming - the pores are cleaned approximately according to the same principle, and at the same time lymphatic drainage massage, which heals the condition of the skin, improves complexion.

Galvanic (disincrustation)

Good for oily and problematic skin, which is usually characterized by increased density. A saline solution of a certain composition is applied to the skin, after which it is exposed to microcurrents using a special nozzle. As a result, the content of the pores dissolves, old comedones go away.

Instead of cleaning, the beautician may advise:

Microdermabrasion - skin resurfacing with fine abrasive particles (promotes epidermis renewal).

Chemical peeling - the dissolution of dead skin particles with the help of acid-based formulations. The surface layer of the skin is renewed. The procedure is effective for correcting various imperfections - from post-acne traces to age spots. The composition of peeling, depending on the type of skin and purpose, is selected by the doctor.

Deep cleansing products for different skin types

Scrubs

Purifying masks

Deeply cleanses, saturates with minerals. For all skin types, including sensitive, prone to flaking.

clay, hydroxy acids

Suitable for deep cleansing, removes excess sebum, evens out the relief of the face.

white clay, seaweed extract

Draws out impurities, unclogs pores and visibly tightens them, provides micro-peeling and refreshes. Apply once a week.

green clay, extracts of lemon balm, ginseng, cranberry

Gently cleanses the skin from external impurities and sebum, frees pores. Suitable for use 2 times a week, for all skin types.

Women's magazine Women's Tricks decided to draw your attention to such an insignificant, but important topic for our beauty and health - how to wash your face? Often we don’t even realize, and we do this procedure mechanically, but if everything is done correctly, then you will keep your skin healthy, clean, radiant and young for a long time!

In addition to the fact that facial skin needs to be regularly nourished with creams and masks, it also needs proper daily cleansing. Throughout the day, a huge amount of bacteria accumulates on it, and if we do not remove them, this will lead to clogged pores, irritation, acne, dull color and aging.

What kind of water is suitable for washing your face?

Spring or rain water is ideal, but modern conditions quite difficult to arrange. You can use filtered or boiled water. The following procedures will help soften the water:

• In two liters of raw water, you need to dilute 1 tablespoon of boric acid.
• In a liter of boiled water, add 1 tablespoon of glycerin, or 1 teaspoon of lemon juice, or a quarter teaspoon of baking soda.

Why can't you wash your face with tap water? - Because it is hard and it contains an increased content of elements that will adversely affect the condition of the skin.

Water temperature

Too much cold water constricts blood vessels, which in consequence can lead to poor nutrition, blood circulation and the release of a protective skin. This will immediately be reflected in poor elasticity, as well as lethargy and dryness of the skin.

Too hot water dilates blood vessels, which weakens and gradually destroys their walls. This is reflected by vascular networks (rosacea), early wrinkles and sagging skin.

Ideal water is water at room temperature (20-24 degrees). This temperature is enough to open the pores and clear the accumulated dirt.

1. First of all, wash your hands with soap and collect all the hair so that it does not climb into your face.
2. During washing, in no case do not stretch or rub the skin, this will lead to the formation of wrinkles.
3. To make it easier to wash your face with prepared soft water, take a small wide bowl and a jug where you will directly prepare the water.
4. Do not apply cleansers to dry skin and take your time during the entire procedure. Lather with fingers or palms to lather, then apply to skin in a gentle circular motion and leave on for 1-2 minutes to remove all impurities.
5. Rinse your skin well with cleansers, Special attention give the wings of the nose, neck, chin and eyelash growth zone, where unwashed residues most often accumulate. Otherwise, it will lead to irritation.
6. Do not do frequent peels and scrubs. For daily use only soft exfoliating products based on salt, sugar, finely ground particles (for example, nut shells), salicylic acid or coffee are suitable, but do it better.
7. The best sponge for your face is the pads of your fingers. If you use a special sponge or washcloth, make sure it's clean enough and don't rub it hard on your skin.
8. Do not rub the skin with a towel, but just gently pat each area.
9. To keep your skin as hydrated as possible, apply cream immediately after washing your face.
10. Wash your face 2-3 times a day, no more. Otherwise, you will violate the natural protective barrier.
11. Never go to bed with uncleaned skin! During the night, accumulated dirt and bacteria will “give” you redness, clogged pores and irritation.

Skin beauty starts in the bathroom. You can line up beauty products with the most advanced composition and textures on the shelf, but without proper cleansing, they will all be useless. ELLE found out from the experts how to wash your face properly.

Why can't you just wash with soap?

Why not? Can. Only not any soap, but special, better natural. Any soap is not suitable - after it there is a feeling of tightness and dryness. Soap contains alkali, which destroys the lipids of the skin, and this leads to its gradual dehydration and, as a result, peeling. At the same time, the skin loses its natural protection and becomes vulnerable to both bacteria and free radicals. Cosmetics for washing are also not "angels". They contain emulsifiers, which also destroy lipid layer skin. But not washing at all is not good. Air environment saturated with exhaust gases, this chemical dirt settles on the skin and spoils it faster than any soap.

What about tap water?

Many simply wash their faces with tap water. It is good if the purest water flows from the tap. But, as a rule, the water in cities is dirty, with chlorine and other heavy impurities. They remain on the skin and permanently negatively affect its functions. The face should be washed with boiled or filtered water.

Almost all synthetic cleansers are non-alkaline and do not leave the skin dry after application. But such products may not be completely washed off with water during washing. The remaining surfactants may continue to "work", causing skin irritation. After washing, be sure to use tonics that will help remove the remnants of the cleanser and prepare the skin for the application of serums and face creams.

How to choose products for proper cleansing, based on the type and condition of the skin of the face?

All cleansers are labeled according to skin type. But here you need to look not only at the type of skin, but also at its condition. Many consider their skin to be normal, but it changes over the years. Most often, the skin deteriorates as a result of improper care. It is also affected by the time of year and health status. Even in winter normal skin can become dry, and in the summer - oily. Lack of sleep and overwork make the skin dry, sensitive and dull. In order not to be mistaken, watch your skin. If necessary, use 2 products at the same time on different areas. The skin will tell you what it needs. For example, if your skin stings a little when you apply the product, but no redness occurs, use a soothing product for sensitive skin, such as Himalaya Herbals Gentle Cleansing Milk. If dry skin develops pimples, try moisturizers for normal to dry skin to help prevent breakouts. And if your skin is shiny, thoroughly moisturize it, starting with cleansers. The more moisture in the skin, the less shine on its surface.

Can some face cleansers really be left on?

The controversial recommendation - "does not require rinsing." In addition to micelles, the cleanser contains other ingredients that can cause dryness, irritation and redness if left on the surface of the skin. Beauticians and dermatologists will recommend rinsing off any cleanser to avoid possible side effects.

Is foam better than gel?

 As a rule, gel and foam have the same composition, but differ in texture. I always recommend using a facial cleanser. It provides deep cleansing of the skin of the face, penetrating into the pores and thoroughly removing impurities. A small amount is enough to provide gentle cleansing and exfoliation of dead cells. The foam is easily washed off with water and is very economical. But I can’t say unequivocally that the foam is better than the gel for washing. After all, the choice of means should depend not only on preferences, but also on the characteristics of the skin. For example, the gel is ideal for gentle cleansing of oily and irritated skin.

Should the process of morning washing be different from the evening one?

Facial cleansing in the morning and in the evening can be very different. For evening cleansing, make-up removers are needed. I recommend that residents of megacities choose make-up remover and cleansing products labeled Anti-pollution - they will rid the skin of particles of atmospheric pollution that accumulate during the day. This will help keep your skin looking younger for longer. In addition, the evening is a great time for an occasional cleansing mask. In the morning, cleansing can consist of only a cleanser and tonic. If at night there was only a care product on the face, you can get by with a double treatment of the skin with tonic without using water.

What is the advantage of oil over other face wash products?

The advantage lies in the gentle gentle effect on the skin. Not all women like to remove makeup with a long multi-step procedure. After that, many feel irritation and tightness of the skin, and they simply get tired of spending a lot of time on this procedure every day. The oil facilitates the removal of makeup without discomfort. After using it, the skin becomes soft, smooth, moisturized.

Is it possible to get by with one universal product?

One will not work, but two is already possible. The obligatory minimum is a cleanser and tonic suitable for the skin.

What is the right order to cleanse your face?

Modern market cosmetics The luxury segment is so rich in choice that there are many options for cleansing. Representing the average resident of Moscow, I see a woman in her forties combination skin. Most likely, her skin is dehydrated due to atmospheric pollution and air conditioning. She uses mascara, powder and gloss, and uses other means less frequently. For such a woman, I recommend that you first remove the mascara and lipstick with a two-phase remedy. Then you need to remove makeup from the face with Biosource Milk. These agents dissolve decorative cosmetics and remove it from the face. The next step is a cleansing face wash that will remove makeup and previous products, as well as remove bacteria and natural skin secretions and bacteria. The cleansing process must be completed with a tonic lotion.

Cleansing and make-up removal - the same thing? But there are still cleansing masks and scrubs. How not to get confused?

The main task of makeup removers is precisely the removal of cosmetics: from the eyes, from the lips, from the entire face. Cleansers are an integral part of the ritual daily care behind the skin, an important step in preparing the skin for the application of serum and cream. Apply in the morning and evening. The type of cleanser is selected individually, based on your preferences and skin needs. Cleansing masks and scrubs are additional skin care products, they are used as needed 1-3 times a week.

Is it necessary to use a separate eye product?

Yes, it's always best to use eye makeup remover first. This tool gently removes mascara and shadows, taking into account the characteristics of this delicate and sensitive area.

What is the advantage of the balm over other cleansing products?

First, the Advanced Night Micro balm effectively and gently cleanses the skin. Secondly, it removes even stubborn makeup. Finally, the gentle formula contains caring ingredients that regenerate the skin.

Often, cleansing products leave a feeling of either oiliness or tightness. How to find your ideal?

The type of cleanser is selected individually, based on the needs and preferences of the client. As a rule, if the skin is combination or prone to oiliness, then it is better to give preference to cleansers using water (mousse, foam, jelly). If the skin is prone to dryness, then it is better to choose products without the use of water (milk, cleansing cream).