Using The Right Face Wash For Your Skin

Using the right face wash for your skin is extremely important. At the end of every day it is important to wash your face in order to remove the daily grime: sweat, dirt, dead skin, makeup, and oil. The environment that you live in each day is a dirty one, and all that gunk coats your skin. Because your face is typically the most exposed to the environment, it takes the brunt of all it has to offer. The purpose of washing your face is to remove all of that gunk and leave clean, fresh skin behind. However, you need to know the best face wash for your skin type in order to keep your skin looking its best.

• Dry Skin – Those with dry skin often suffer from tight, flaky skin. Dry skin lacks lipids (fats and oils), water, or both that are necessary for hydrated skin. Those with dry skin should look for cream based cleansers to protect their skin’s hydration and prevent further drying.
• Oily Skin – Those with oily skin have the excessive production of oils. Oily skin is often associated with more frequent breakouts because the pores become clogged with oil and dirt. The best thing for oily skin is to use an oil-free foaming cleanser that does not block the pores. The ingredients salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide can also help prevent breakouts.
• Combination Skin – Most people qualify as having combination skin. Their “T-zone” (the forehead, nose, and chin) are oily, but the rest of their face is either normal or dry. A mild cleanser is the best option for face wash as it will not be too harsh on the normal/dry skin and it will not remove too much sebum from the oiler places.
• Sensitive Skin – True skin sensitivity is generally categorized by eczema, psoriasis, and rosacea. These skin conditions are associated with a thinner outer skin layer that is easily irritated and reacts easily to climate, environment, dirt, oil, and everything else that it encounters day to day. It is important for those with sensitive skin to stay away from face washes that contain alcohol or fragrances, as these are common irritants. Look for “calming” ingredients such as green tea extract, aloe, and chamomile. The fewer the ingredients on the label, the better chance sensitive skin has.
• Normal Skin – Ah, the lucky ones. Most cleansers will work for this skin type, but it is still best to choose a mild cleanser that will remove dirt and oil but not strip your skin.

For face wash recommendations specific to your skin type, contact Medical Dermatology Specialists today.