A Beginner’s Guide to Skin Care: The Daily Cleansing Routine You Need
As a master esthetician, one of the most common questions I receive is, "What’s the best way to take care of my skin?" Taking care of your skin can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. The key is starting with a simple, consistent routine that prioritizes proper cleansing. Here's a beginner-friendly guide to understanding your skin and creating a daily ritual to keep it fresh, clean, and glowing.
What Is Cleansing, and Why Do We Do It?
Cleansing is the foundation of healthy skin care. It’s not just about removing makeup or sweat—it's about clearing away the grime that accumulates throughout the day and night. Think of your skin like layers of fabric. The top layer catches dirt, pollution, oil, and bacteria, while the deeper layers can get clogged if not cared for properly.
Throughout the day, we unknowingly expose our skin to a world of impurities:
Touching our face after handling phones, doorknobs, or menus.
Pollution in the air, which clings to our skin like a magnet.
Natural oils and sweat that accumulate.
At night, our bodies naturally detoxify, releasing waste through the skin. Add in pillowcases covered with sweat, drool, and oil buildup, and it’s easy to see why our skin needs thorough cleansing morning and night.
The Double Cleanse: A Game Changer
To properly cleanse your skin, you need to go beyond a quick wash. That’s where double cleansing comes in—both morning and night.
Step 1: The Surface Cleanse
The first cleanse removes the top layer of dirt, oil, makeup, and other impurities that collect throughout the day.
Step 2: The Deep Cleanse
The second cleanse targets deeper layers of the skin, clearing out pores and preparing your face for the rest of your skincare products. Without this second cleanse, serums, moisturizers, and treatments can’t penetrate effectively—they’re blocked by leftover grime.
How to Cleanse Your Face: Step-by-Step Guide
Start with clean tools and habits:
Wash your pillowcase weekly.
Sanitize your phone regularly.
Brush your teeth before washing your face (to avoid spreading bacteria).
Choose the right cleanser for your skin type:
Dry Skin: Opt for hydrating, cream-based cleansers to nourish and moisturize.
Oily Skin: Go for gel-based cleansers to balance and reduce excess oil.
Combination or sensitive skin: Consult with your esthetician to find a formula tailored to your needs.
Double cleanse:
Use lukewarm water to wet your face. Apply your cleanser in gentle, circular motions for about 30-60 seconds. Rinse and repeat.
Pat your skin dry: Avoid harsh rubbing, which can irritate the skin.
Follow up with skincare products: Now that your skin is clean, serums, moisturizers, and SPF (in the morning) can work more effectively.
Why Cleansing Matters for Healthy Skin
Skipping proper cleansing can lead to clogged pores, dullness, aging and ineffective skincare products. But with the right cleanser and technique, you’re not just washing away impurities—you’re setting the stage for glowing, healthy skin.
Final Tips for Success
Pay attention to your skin’s needs. If your skin feels tight or overly oily after cleansing, your product may not be the right match.
Visit a professional esthetician for a personalized skin analysis and product recommendations.
Keep your routine consistent—beautiful skin doesn’t happen overnight but with daily dedication.
By committing to a proper cleansing routine, you’ll give your skin the care it deserves—fresh, healthy, and ready to face the day (or night) ahead.
Remember: Your skin is an investment, and it’s never too early or too late to start taking care of it.
