DEProper skin cleansing for healthy skin
The skin is our largest organ and performs vital tasks. Therefore, proper skin cleansing of the face and body is essential. Only once dirt, sweat, make-up, and sebum have been removed can skincare ingredients develop their full effect. Gentle yet effective cleansing of the skin is therefore crucial. This is the only way to strengthen the skin’s natural protective mechanisms and functions and to maintain skin health in the long term. Proper skin cleansing for healthy skin is precisely the topic of the following article.
What exactly does proper skin cleansing of the face and body mean?
Steam bath. Clarifying and soothing
To remove residues of oil and make-up, products such as cleansing milk, gel, or foam are necessary in addition to water. Another method for skin cleansing is a steam bath. For this, a bowl of boiling hot water is mixed with either a little sea salt, sage, or chamomile. Then, hold the face over the steaming water. The steam opens the pores of the skin, promotes blood circulation, and harmful substances are sweated out. The additives also have a soothing effect. The result is a fresh, clear complexion and healthy skin.
Facial massage. Against tension and skin wrinkles
Massage is also an effective technique for deep cleansing of the skin. This beneficial application relieves tension and can counteract signs of premature skin aging. During facial cleansing, a cleansing foam or cleanser can be gently applied to the skin using slow circular movements and lukewarm water. The correct temperature is important here. Hot water can strip moisture from the skin during cleansing and cause it to dry out. Sensitive skin, on the other hand, reacts sensitively to water temperatures that are too cold.
Depending on the skin type, a gentle exfoliation can be applied afterwards to rid the skin of dead skin cells. This is particularly advisable at regular intervals for oily and blemished skin. You can choose between an enzyme peel and a mechanical scrub. The latter contains fine granules and should only be used once a week to avoid overstressing the skin. Enzyme peels, on the other hand, can be suitable for daily use and ensure a smooth skin appearance when used regularly.
A look at the skin type
Optimal facial cleansing and skin care are always tailored to the individual skin type. Typical signs that a cleansing routine is not ideal include, for example, an oily film on greasy skin that appears just a few hours after intensive skin cleansing. Rough and sometimes flaky patches, as well as a feeling of tightness after washing, are indicators of dry skin. In this case, mild cleansing without alcohol and burdensome fragrances, dyes, or preservatives is recommended.
Redness and itching, in turn, indicate sensitive skin, for which fragrance-free and gentle facial cleansing should ideally be used. Combination skin is characterized by dry patches on the cheeks and around the eyes, as well as an oily T-zone. A washing gel without alcohol, with the lowest possible fat content and plenty of moisture, is recommended here.
Tips regarding the use of classic soap are discouraged for all skin types. Even normal skin should always be cleansed gently. Surfactants, so-called washing substances often contained in soap, can be too aggressive even for intact epidermis and may remove the naturally occurring lipid layer. The top layer of skin is left unprotected, moisture can escape, and bacteria can penetrate.
Consequently, it is always crucial to look at the ingredients, which often promote skin dehydration. Exceptions are special care products with a skin-friendly pH value and appropriate ingredients that preserve the skin’s natural protective film.
Cleansing wipes for the skin. Products for on the go
The exclusive use of cleansing wipes to remove dirt, sebum, and make-up should be avoided. They are only suitable for occasional cleansing, such as when traveling. When using them, it is important that contact with the skin is as gentle as possible: simply dab carefully with the wipe and do not rub vigorously.
Cleansing masks can be particularly recommended for oily skin. Clay or mineral mud are ingredients that have proven effective, partly due to their pore-tightening effect. Regular use of the masks is beneficial.
Eye make-up. Gentle removal
A simple trick helps with eye make-up. The key is to remove it as gently as possible and not to stress the sensitive eye area unnecessarily. Cotton pads are dipped into an eye make-up remover tailored to the skin type and placed on the closed eyes for a few seconds. This allows the remover to soak in. The pads are then carefully pulled downwards and the process is repeated several times. To reduce dark circles and revitalize tired eyes, the cotton pads can also be soaked in slightly cooled green or black tea and placed on the eyes instead of eye make-up remover.
Further topics and tips regarding the skin and skin care can be found in our skin journal. Enjoy your reading.
