“It’s important to use a cleanser that will clean the skin without stripping it of moisture-that is the goal in cleansing twice a day,” says Miami and New York City dermatologist Fredric Brandt, MD. So, what should you look for in a cleanser? Dr. Brandt suggests looking for ingredients like green tea, white tea and apple fruit extract that provide antioxidants; aloe, grapeseed and chamomile to soothe; and hyaluronic acid to hydrate the skin. Additionally, make sure your cleanser works well with your specific skin type.
Types of cleansers:
Gels. Ideal for oily and acneic skin, and those who wear heavy face makeup, gels wash off well, leaving almost no product behind.
Oils. Best for dry skin, cleansing oils leave the skin feeling soft. Some experts recommend them for oily skin, too, but others feel that they don’t remove enough surface bacteria.
Lotions, creams and milks. These can leave a residue or film on the skin, which makes them better for mature, dry skin. If you regularly cleanse with one of these, use an exfoliant at least twice a week as well.
“What makes a regimen effective is not only about which products you use, but consistency,” says Dr. Brandt, who emphasizes the importance of cleansing the skin every night. How often you wash your face depends on your skin type, but cleansing more than twice a day should generally be avoided, since it can strip the skin of its natural oils. Read more about the key to cleansing here.
For more tips from Dr. Brandt, tune in to the live call-in show “Ask Dr. Brandt,” airing Saturdays at 1 p.m. Eastern time though October 15, on SiriusXM.
