Cleansing is the most underestimated — and often most mistreated — step in skincare. People tend to overdo it, underdo it, or choose the wrong approach altogether. But cleansing can either make or break your entire routine. Done correctly, it creates the foundation for healthy, resilient skin.
The Basics: Cleanse, Moisturize, Protect
Before layering in advanced and corrective steps, it all starts with these three essentials:
- Cleansing – to remove impurities.
- Moisturizing – to support hydration and barrier function.
- Protecting – through daily sunscreen use.
Cleansing isn’t just about removing makeup. Even if you wear none, your skin produces 1–3 teaspoons of oil (sebum) a day — more than enough to trap debris, pollutants, and bacteria. Add in city living and you’re dealing with 200–300% more oxidative stress, leading to faster aging and collagen breakdown.
Cleansing Frequency: Once a Day Keeps the Grime Away
Some people cleanse three times a day. Others not at all. Reality? Most skin types only need a proper cleanse once at night. In the morning, rinsing with lukewarm water may be enough — especially for dry or balanced skin.
A 2023 study showed that using only water in the morning helped improve hydration and support a healthier skin barrier. But remember: rules are meant to be adapted. If you’re oily and live in a humid environment, a gentle morning cleanse might be necessary.
Key is tuning into your own skin and environment.
That Squeaky Clean Feeling? Not a Good Sign.
We’ve been conditioned to believe skin should feel tight and squeaky after cleansing — but that sensation usually means you’ve over-stripped your skin. Over-cleansing leads to rebound oil production and a compromised barrier.
Your skin should feel:
- Comfortable (not tight)
- Supple (not greasy)
- Clean (but not squeaky)
Technique Matters: Less Is More
Cleansing doesn’t need to be lengthy or aggressive. In fact:
- 30–60 seconds is enough.
- Use light to medium pressure — your goal isn’t to “scrub” your pores clean.
- Stick with lukewarm water — hot water can strip the skin just as harshly as the wrong cleanser.
Choosing the Right Cleanser
Before you get lost in ingredient labels and marketing jargon, simplify it based on your skin type:
- Dry Skin: Look for cream-based cleansers that hydrate while cleansing.
- Oily Skin: Opt for gel or foam cleansers with effective (but not harsh) surfactants to remove excess oil.
- Combination Skin: Seek a balanced cleanser with moderate cleansing agents and mild conditioning ingredients.
- Sensitive Skin: Go fragrance-free, sulfate-free, and avoid common irritants. Aim for gentle, pH-balanced formulas.
Remember, a cleanser should do one thing well: remove dirt, oil, and debris without disrupting your skin’s natural moisture barrier.
Habits Beyond the Cleanser
1. Rotate Your Washcloths
Use soft, baby washcloths — one for each night of the week. Toss them in the laundry after each use. Clean cloth = clean face.
2. Change Your Pillowcases Regularly
It might seem extra, but changing your pillowcase every two days (flip it after one night, then replace) can make a big difference. Think about it: if we change our underwear daily, shouldn’t we do the same for something our face rubs on for 7–9 hours?
Final Takeaways
- Cleansing is non-negotiable, even if you don’t wear makeup.
- One solid cleanse at night is often enough.
- Pay attention to how you cleanse — not just what you use.
- Be mindful of your water temperature, pressure, and time.
- Choose a cleanser based on your skin’s needs, not trends.
- Support your skin with healthy habits like clean cloths and pillowcases.
Healthy skin isn’t just about beauty—it’s a reflection of your overall wellbeing. The skin protects, communicates, regulates, and senses. When we treat it with intention and balance—not extremes—it rewards us with radiance.
Stay curious. Stay consistent. And don’t forget: healthy skin starts here.
Elevate Your Skin Routine
Smart care is intentional care. Results come from consistent, tailored strategies—not guesswork.
At Skin Fit Rox in Edmonds, WA, I provide advanced skin services and corrective skincare for age management, skin support, and acne solutions—in person or virtually, wherever you are.
Book your personalized consultation today and begin your Skin Fit Rox journey.
Invest In Your Skin Wisely.
👉 Book a consultation and let’s create your personalized plan.
P.S. Real results require real strategy. If you’re ready to invest in your skin health, I’m here to guide you.
Stay connected: For ongoing guidance and exclusive insights, follow @Skin.Fit.Rox or join our newsletter.
