This article was co-authored by Diana Yerkes and by wikiHow staff writer, Hannah Madden. Diana Yerkes is a Skincare Professional and the Lead Esthetician at Rescue Spa in New York City, New York. With over 15 years of experience, Diana helps others with their skin care needs by incorporating natural and high-performing products and treatments into their routines while providing nutrition insights and educating clients on better skin care habits. Diana is a member of the Associated Skin Care Professionals (ASCP) and holds certifications from the Wellness for Cancer and Look Good Feel Better programs. She received her esthetics education from the Aveda Institute, the International Dermal Institute, and the Biologique Research Academy.
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Ready to learn the best technique for keeping your face bright, healthy, and fresh? Washing your face every day is an easy way to scrub away dirt and grime, and using the right products and techniques ensures your skin won’t get dry or break out. Whether your skin is acne-prone, dry and delicate, or anywhere in between, we'll teach you how to cleanse correctly for beautiful, glowing skin.
Things You Should Know
- Wash your face twice a day with lukewarm water and a gentle, non-abrasive cleanser. Rinse your skin and pat it dry with a towel.
- Pick products that are right for your skin type. You might have dry skin, oily skin, sensitive skin, aging skin, or combination skin.
- Always moisturize after washing your face. Exfoliate once a week to remove dead skin cells and oil buildup.
- Wear sunscreen every day to protect your skin from UV rays.
Steps
Do You Recommend A Specific Daily Skin Care Routine?
Community Q&A
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QuestionCan I use Ponds Day Cream after using Clean and Clear face wash?wikiHow Staff EditorThis answer was written by one of our trained team of researchers who validated it for accuracy and comprehensiveness.
Staff AnswerwikiHow Staff EditorStaff AnswerThese two products should be fine to combine but be sure to read the instructions on the packaging of both to determine that they're both appropriate for your skin type. Also, do a test run on just a small area of your face first, to see how it works; if it feels fine, then you can do all of your face the next time. If you have concerns with either product, contact the retailer or manufacturer. -
QuestionHow can I wash my face without face wash?wikiHow Staff EditorThis answer was written by one of our trained team of researchers who validated it for accuracy and comprehensiveness.
Staff AnswerwikiHow Staff EditorStaff AnswerUsing plain water and a soft cleaning cloth works just fine, or even just splashing your face with water. A commercial face wash or cleanser really isn’t necessary to keep your face clean, it’s just a nice-to-have option if you like it. For more ideas on washing your face without face wash, check out the wikiHow article How to Have a Clean Face without Cleanser. -
QuestionWhat is the best way to clean your face?wikiHow Staff EditorThis answer was written by one of our trained team of researchers who validated it for accuracy and comprehensiveness.
Staff AnswerwikiHow Staff EditorStaff AnswerThe "best" way to clean your face depends on whether or not you have skin problems, your skin type and your age. For some great beginner information on cleaning your face in different ways, check out the various Methods in the steps above.
Video
Reader Videos
Tips
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Try not to touch your face throughout the day, especially if you have acne-prone skin. Touching your face can introduce bacteria to your skin, which can lead to breakouts.[14]Thanks
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Always remove your makeup before you go to sleep to avoid clogging your pores.[15]Thanks
References
- ↑ https://www.aad.org/public/everyday-care/skin-care-basics/dry/oily-skin
- ↑ https://www.aad.org/public/everyday-care/skin-care-basics/dry/oily-skin
- ↑ https://health.clevelandclinic.org/what-products-do-i-actually-need-for-a-simple-everyday-skin-care-routine/
- ↑ https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/adult-health/in-depth/skin-care/art-20048237
- ↑ https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/adult-health/in-depth/skin-care/art-20048237
- ↑ https://www.aad.org/public/everyday-care/skin-care-basics/dry/oily-skin
- ↑ https://health.clevelandclinic.org/what-products-do-i-actually-need-for-a-simple-everyday-skin-care-routine/
- ↑ https://www.aad.org/public/everyday-care/skin-care-basics/dry/oily-skin
- ↑ https://www.aad.org/public/everyday-care/skin-care-basics/dry/pick-moisturizer
- ↑ https://www.aad.org/public/everyday-care/skin-care-basics/dry/pick-moisturizer
- ↑ https://www.aad.org/public/everyday-care/skin-care-basics/dry/oily-skin
- ↑ https://www.aad.org/public/everyday-care/skin-care-basics/dry/pick-moisturizer
- ↑ https://kidshealth.org/en/teens/skin-tips.html
- ↑ https://www.aad.org/public/everyday-care/skin-care-basics/dry/oily-skin
- ↑ https://www.aad.org/public/everyday-care/skin-care-basics/dry/oily-skin
- Videos provided by Jennifer Chiu
About This Article
For daily face washing, use a gentle, fragrance-free cleanser designed for your skin type. For instance, if you have dry skin, use a moisturizing cleanser. If your skin is oily or acne-prone, make sure your cleanser is oil-free. If you’re wearing makeup, use a makeup remover to take it off before washing with your regular cleanser. Wet your face with lukewarm water, then massage the cleanser into your skin with your fingertips using gentle, circular motions. Rinse your face thoroughly with lukewarm water and pat it dry with a soft, clean towel. Smooth a facial moisturizer over your face while your skin is still slightly damp. For tips on washing acne-prone skin, read on!
Reader Success Stories
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"The step-by-step process definitely helped. This definitely cleared up when I should moisturize and wash my face. I wasn't quite sure on specifically what I should use and how I should use it. I now know how to properly cleanse my face. Thanks for the help!"..." more