The 5 Biggest Cleansing Mistakes

Summary

In this video, a group of top dermatologists and influencers gathered in New York City for an event called 'Cleanse Like a Derm,' sponsored by Cerave. The event aimed to educate attendees on proper skin cleansing techniques and the importance of choosing the right products. Key mistakes covered include using hot water, skipping cleansing, using harsh cleansers, selecting the wrong product for your skin type, and not cleansing after exercise. The event was filled with fun activities, including photo stations and friendly competitions, all while sharing valuable skincare tips and advice for healthier skin routines.

Takeaways

• 😀 Hot water is a big mistake when cleansing your skin as it can damage your skin barrier. Stick to warm or cold water instead.
• 😀 Skipping the cleansing step is a common mistake. Cleanse twice a day, even if you haven't left the house.
• 😀 Avoid using harsh cleansers such as dish soap, bar soap, or shower gels on your face. Use products specifically formulated for facial skin.
• 😀 Choosing a cleanser that suits your skin type is essential. Know whether you have dry, oily, or combination skin before picking a cleanser.
• 😀 To determine your skin type, cleanse, leave your skin for two hours, and check if it's oily, tight, or a combination of both.
• 😀 Be mindful when selecting a cleanser: hydrating cleansers work best for dry skin, while foaming cleansers are better for oily skin.
• 😀 You can mix and match cleansers depending on your skin's needs. For example, you can use a salicylic acid cleanser once a day and a hydrating one at other times.
• 😀 After exercising, it's important to properly cleanse your face to prevent skin issues like acne. Makeup wipes can be useful on-the-go.
• 😀 Don't assume skin type classifications are rigid medical diagnoses; they are general guidelines for better skincare choices.
• 😀 The event featured fun activities such as a 'shelfie station,' an upside-down bathroom for photo ops, and a ball pit for attendees to enjoy.
• 😀 Avani Greg, a social media influencer, participated in the event, sharing her insights on skincare and makeup with the attendees.

Q & A

What is the purpose of the 'Cleanse Like a Derm' event?

The 'Cleanse Like a Derm' event aimed to help attendees better understand the importance of properly cleansing their skin. The event focused on educating participants about how cleansing is a crucial step in skincare that can prevent long-term or short-term skin issues if done incorrectly.

What is the first common cleansing mistake people make?

The first common mistake people make is using super hot water to wash their face. Hot water can damage the skin barrier and lead to dryness, particularly for individuals with eczema.

How should you adjust the water temperature when washing your face?

It’s recommended to use either cold or warm water to wash your face. Hot water should be avoided because it can dry out your skin and harm the skin barrier.

Why is skipping the cleansing step problematic?

Skipping the cleansing step, especially at night or in the morning, can leave dirt, oil, environmental toxins, and other impurities on the skin. This can lead to clogged pores, skin irritation, and breakouts.

How often should you cleanse your skin?

It’s typically recommended to cleanse your skin twice a day—once in the morning and once before bed. For people with very dry skin, rinsing with water may suffice, but in general, cleansing twice a day helps remove impurities and excess oil.

What types of cleansers should be avoided for facial cleansing?

Cleansers such as dish soap, bar soap, or shower gel should be avoided for facial cleansing. These products are too harsh, strip natural oils, and can disrupt the skin's pH balance.

What is the ideal pH level for facial cleansers?

The ideal pH level for facial cleansers is close to the skin’s natural pH of 5.5. Using a cleanser that respects this balance helps maintain a healthy skin barrier and hydration.

What should you consider when selecting a cleanser?

You should choose a cleanser based on your skin type. For dry skin, a hydrating cleanser is ideal, while oily skin benefits from a foaming cleanser. Combination skin may require a cleanser that balances both types, such as a cream-to-foam cleanser.

How can you determine your skin type?

To determine your skin type, cleanse your face with a gentle cleanser, pat it dry, and wait for two hours. If your skin feels oily, you likely have oily skin. If it feels tight or dry, you likely have dry skin. If it’s oily in some areas and dry in others, you likely have combination skin.

What is a common mistake people make after exercise regarding skincare?

A common mistake is not properly cleansing the skin after exercise. Sweat, oil, and bacteria can accumulate on the skin, leading to acne or irritation. Using makeup wipes or cleansing wipes can help remove these impurities when you're unable to wash your face immediately.

How can cleansing wipes be useful after a workout?

Cleansing wipes are useful after a workout because they can quickly remove sweat, oil, and dirt from the skin when there is no time for a full face wash. They help prevent breakouts and skin irritation, especially if used right after exercise.

How should you adjust your cleanser if you have both acne and dry skin?

If you have acne and dry skin, you can alternate between a benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid cleanser and a hydrating cleanser. Using acne-specific cleansers once a day and a hydrating cleanser at another time will help address both concerns without over-drying your skin.