Yes, you do need to wash your face daily. That might sound a bit obvious, however, I can share with you that I have had several clients confess to me that they either only wash their face in the shower in the morning or not at all. (gasp) That being said, I would like to share with you the best way to wash your face to prevent aging.
We actually do need to wash our faces twice a day. A good cleansing will remove dirt, make-up, oil, pollutants, and dead skin cells. If you skip washing your face before putting on essential anti-aging products such as serum, moisturizer, and night creams, then the products will sit on top of whatever is on your face and not work properly. It will also cause clogged pores which may lead to acne and accelerates aging.
Morning washing is important to remove oil, dirt, and traces of products from the night before. This starts you with a clean slate and allow your makeup to glide on easily.
Evening washing is a must. (if you are only going to wash your face once a day, choose the nighttime wash) Washing off dirt, oil, pollution, sunscreen, and other impurities is essential. Keep in mind that your face will attract dirt and pollution during the day that will not go away on its own unless you cleanse your face. Free radicals from pollution in the air can break down the skin’s natural elastin and thus cause aging. Leaving makeup on your face overnight can clog the pores and sebum builds up on the skin which can lead to breakouts and dull-looking skin.
What should you wash your face with?
Choose a creamy anti-aging facial wash, not a soap. Removing too much of the natural oil can cause aging. Stay clear of cleansers with ingredients such as mineral oil and sulfates. I use a luxurious cleanser that easily removes dirt, oil, makeup, and impurities and contains plant stem cell extracts that I love. Look for a cleanser that is safe and without harsh chemicals.
How to wash your face
Here are a few good tips on how to wash your face to prevent aging:
- 1. Start with clean hands. Yes, wash your hands first before touching your face.
- 2. Dampen skin and apply a small amount of cleanser to face and neck.
- 3. Work in circular motions. This allows you to get under the hair folicles.
- 4. In the evening do a double cleanse. The first one to gently remove make-up and surface dirt and the second use a slightly rough wash cloth to help exfoliate and complety remove all traces of make-up.
- 5. Be sure to rinse throughly.
- 6. Pat skin dry face with a clean soft towel.
Follow a good skin care routine and be consistant. If you are more of a no-fuss individual, don’t skip the serum. Serums are the powerhorse of skincare and a must have. They have high concentrations of vitamin C and skin loving ingredients. If you have experienced sensitivity to rentinol products in the past, consider trying Bakuchiol which is a plant derived ingredient. Bakuchiol is as powerful as retinal products but is gentle on the skin and do not cause irritation or sensitivity to the sun. Bakuchiol can also be combined with Vitamin C which supports collegan through moisturization.
Other factors such as proper nutrition, getting enough rest, and stress management will greaty infulence how you age. Our mind, body, and our skin are truly all connected! Make self care a priority.
P.S. Don’t forget the sunblock!