Not everyone is blessed with perfect skin, but a healthy, blemish-free complexion is quite achievable. Where do you begin? By washing your face, of course! This basic step is the foundation for acne-free skin. That’s precisely why choosing the right face wash is so important. Your cleansing routine is often the gateway to a clear complexion.
Why face wash matters
The face wash in your bathroom cabinet has one job: to get your facial skin squeaky clean. A face wash eliminates all the muck from your face—right from dirt, dust, pollution, and sweat to excess oil, dead skin, bacteria, and residue from cosmetics. Ideally, it removes all these impurities without drying out your skin or aggravating breakouts.
Washing your face may not seem like a biggie, especially given the many skin serums, creams, and oils that are clamouring for your attention. But cleansing is an essential step. If you don’t cleanse properly, any additional products that you layer on will not fetch the desired results.
Zoom in on your skin concerns
The beauty aisle at the supermarket offers up numerous face washes. Not just that, you will find several formulas meant for acne-prone skin. Which face wash should you choose? That depends on what your skin is telling you.
Park yourself at the mirror and examine your skin thoroughly:
- Do you have just a few comedones (blackheads and whiteheads), and maybe the occasional pimple? This is a sign of mild acne.
- Perhaps you have numerous blackheads and whiteheads, plus a scattering of pimples? That indicates moderate acne.
- If your skin is peppered with pimples and you spot some inflamed nodules, your acne is moderately severe.
- Maybe your skin is covered with large acne lesions, including painful and pus-filled cysts. That means your acne is severe.
Need help identifying the severity of your breakouts? Here’s a guide to the different grades of acne.
When to consult a dermatologist
If you have severe acne, don’t dillydally. Set up an appointment with your dermatologist on a priority basis. Severe acne is painful and frustrating to treat. It also leaves the skin prone to scarring.
A dermatologist may prescribe a medicated face wash for your acne problem. Use this regularly to minimise the appearance of breakouts and clogged pores over time.
You could also seek the doctor’s advice on lifestyle changes to prevent acne, diet tips for healthy skin, and additional products that enrich your skincare routine.
Know your over-the-counter options
Many folks with mild to moderate acne prefer to skip the appointment with their dermatologist. If that’s you, no worries. There are loads of anti-acne face washes available over the counter these days.
Pay close attention to the labels when shopping for face wash. With a little care, you should be able to pick the right formula for your skin. Here’s what to look for:
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Non-comedogenic formula: A face wash that is non-comedogenic will not clog your pores. Remember, clogged pores lead to breakouts.
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Acne-fighting ingredients: Check for products that list salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide among their active ingredients. Tea tree oil and neem are some other well-known anti-acne ingredients.
- Moisturising components: Some acne-fighting ingredients can dry out the skin. See if the face wash compensates for this by including moisturising elements like ceramides, glycerin, and hyaluronic acid.
Steer clear of face washes that contain parabens, for these can be harsh on the skin. Fragrances and dyes may irritate your skin and are better avoided. Also, take regular bath soap out of the equation. It dries out the skin. If you must use soap, invest in an anti-acne bar that is specially formulated for facial use.
Once you find a good face wash, learn to use it correctly: Wet your face and neck with lukewarm water. Then apply a small amount of product using gentle circular motions. Work in the product for about 30 seconds before washing off with lukewarm water. Finally, pat dry with a soft, clean towel. (Here’s a more comprehensive guide to washing your face properly.)
Don’t stop at face wash
After cleansing, swipe on toner to restore your skin’s pH and clarify pores. Next, target the acne with Clearica Anti-Acne Cream. This fights off acne bacteria and limits their spread while reducing inflammation and reviving the skin’s overall appearance. Close out the routine with a lightweight moisturiser that hydrates the skin and keeps it supple.
If you wish to keep zits away, commit to washing and pampering your face twice a day. Ultimately, a consistent skincare routine is your ticket to beautiful, clear skin.
Disclaimer: This page is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a recommendation or for diagnostic purposes. Please consult your dermatologist or doctor before acting on any of the information provided here.