Acne can come about from the time hormones are off in teenagers to stress-related pimples in adults. While creams and treatments tend to get all the limelight, cleansing is the first and therefore the most underrated step in an acne-fighting regimen.
Why Cleansing Matters for Acne-Prone Skin
From dawn to dusk, dirt, dust, pollution, bacteria, sweat, and oil ever come in contact with the skin. Things get clogged with pores and thus make the skin break out. Acne reducing cleansing (คลีนซิ่งลดสิว, which is the term in Thai) should remove the buildup so that the skin remains clean and free to breathe, thereby making easier the absorption from other skincare products. Acne-prone skin effectively depends on a timely cleansing routine, where infrequent poring is an issue in the full-blown breakout.
The Problem with Over-Cleansing
It is believed that acne needs to be “scrubbed away.” Hence, harsh, foaming cleansers are used several times during the day, aiming to dry out the pimples quickly. But ironically, an overly cleansing regimen often intensifies pity. Over-cleansing will strip the skin of its natural oils; hence, the skin responds by producing more oil to counter this loss. This excess in sebum leads to blocked pores, which in turn lead to more acne.
Gentle cleansing would be appropriate. It’s not how much you scrub but how consistently and carefully you wash your face.
Morning and Night: When to Cleanse
Two cleansing processes are recommended for the skin: once in the morning and once at night. The morning cleansing process removes oil and sweats which are secreted overnight. Late-night cleansing is even more critical because it removes impurities, makeup, and pollution of the day. A clean face ready for bed allows the skin to begin its repair and healing process overnight without being interrupted by contaminants that clog pores.
The Right Way to Cleanse
Cleansing needs to be easy and relaxing. The face should be splashed with lukewarm water: hot water irritates; cold water refuses to cleanse. Using a pea-sized amount, gently rub your skin with the cleanser for 30 to 60 seconds with the fingertips. Then, wash off the cleanser completely and dry by patting with a clean towel. Rubbing the skin or scrubbing it is ill-advised. Also, do not use unclean hands or towels. These changes will make huge differences in time.
Don’t Skip Moisturizer
A very big mistake people make after cleansing is not applying moisturizer. The acne-prone skin actually requires water. Upon cleansing without moisturizing, the very act can dry or irritate the skin, so sheath glands may even get triggered to produce more oil. Simply put, get a lightweight, non-comedogenic moisturizer and keep your wonky balance steady.
