Dr. Jochen of Contour Dermatology talks with Jenifer Daniels of CBS Local 2 about what to look for in face washes, how to deal with seasonal changes to your skin, and other helpful tips.
1. Do Choose a Gentle Cleanser:
- Opt for a mild, soap-free face wash that won’t strip your skin of its natural oils. Harsh cleansers can disrupt the skin’s barrier, leading to dryness, irritation, and increased sensitivity.
- Look for cleansers with a pH level close to your skin’s natural pH of 5.5. This helps maintain the skin’s acid mantle, which protects against bacteria and environmental stressors.
2. Do Double Cleanse if You Wear Makeup or Sunscreen:
- If you regularly wear makeup or sunscreen, double cleansing is essential to ensure your skin is thoroughly cleansed.
- Start with an oil-based cleanser to dissolve makeup, sunscreen, and other oil-based impurities.
- Follow with a water-based cleanser to remove dirt, sweat, and any remaining impurities.
3. Don't Over Cleanse:
- Over-cleansing can strip your skin of its natural oils, leading to dryness, irritation, and increased sensitivity.
- Limit face washing to twice a day, once in the morning and once in the evening.
- If you have oily skin, you may need to cleanse more frequently, but avoid washing more than three times a day.
4. Do Moisturize After Cleansing:
- After cleansing, it’s crucial to apply a moisturizer to help replenish the skin’s natural oils and protect it from moisture loss.
- Choose a moisturizer that suits your skin type and concerns.
- Apply moisturizer while your skin is still slightly damp to help lock in hydration.