NEW YORK, Sept. 15, 2020 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ -- Looking for a face wash? Scores of choices are available in your drug-store aisle. And there are hundreds more online. "The number of facial cleansers out there may be overwhelming," notes Dr. Suzanne Friedler, a dermatologist with Advanced Dermatology PC. "So it's helpful to remember that our skin has its own remarkable built-in maintenance system, which we want to support."
Our skin is our body's largest organ, and it performs a complex range of jobs, from regulating our temperature to teaming up with our immune system to ward off threats. "Our skin is expansive," observes Friedler. "Both literally – adults have about 22 square feet. And figuratively: Among the skin's functions is its ability to regularly regenerate."
Our skin's maintenance system includes a turnover of skin cells, with new cells repopulating about every four weeks. "And our skin's pores release a number of protective substances, including the skin oil sebum, which helps coat the surface," explains Dr. Friedler.
"Especially with the vast array of face-cleansing choices available," Dr. Friedler advises, "we want to keep in mind that our regimen should be supportive of our skin's own self-care. An effective cleansing routine should steer clear of common face-washing mistakes."
With that in mind, Dr. Friedler offers the following suggestions:
5 face-wash "do-nots" that will keep your skin dewy:
1. Do not overwash! "'Squeaky clean' skin has been stripped of its natural barrier protection," emphasizes Dr. Friedler. "Our skin's processes are calibrated to maintain a balance of protective skin oil on the surface. If we get carried away and wash too often, we can disrupt this balance, causing overproduction of sebum, which can lead to clogged pores and acne. Aside from a post-workout wash, we should wash no more than twice a day with a non-soap cleanser. Instead of scrubbing, gently use your fingers. Then pat dry – no rubbing."
2. Do not mess with the acid mantle! "We've heard a lot about the skin's 'acid mantle' in health and beauty columns," observes Dr. Friedler. "The skin's natural pH is below 7, creating an acidic surface environment that maintains its protective barrier and hosts a range of beneficial microflora. One reason we want to stay away from soap is that its pH is much higher, usually about 10 or 11, which can disrupt that mantle, causing a cascade of problems. When we choose cleansing products, we want to make sure that the pH is in the range of 5 to 7 so that our skin's surface pH is supported and its delicate ecosystem remains healthy."
3. Do not forget to moisturize! "Our face-washing routine," states Friedler, "should include moisturizing as the last step. Moisturize immediately after patting dry: within a minute to three minutes to lock in your skin's moisture. Those with oily skin should use an oil-free, 'non-comedogenic' gel product. Dryer skin does well with thicker lotions and creams. Products that include ceramides or hyaluronic acid can aid in providing protection."
4. Do not over-exfoliate! "As with washing," says Friedler, "exfoliation should be done with care. Gentle exfoliation can help prevent clogged pores. But we don't want to overdo it: No more than once or twice a week for dry skin. Chemical-based exfoliants, such as glycolic or lactic acid, are typically gentler than mechanical exfoliants like brushes and scrubs. Just as with washing, we should apply gently and be sure to moisturize afterwards."
5. Do not forget about the neighbor! "The success of our face-cleansing routine is also dependent on how we treat our hair," advises Dr. Friedler. "We want to make sure that our hair-care and styling products are free from irritants and oils that can disrupt our skin's balance."
"Staying focused on supporting our skin's own processes," concludes Dr. Friedler, "can help us navigate the myriad face-cleanser choices at the drug store."
Suzanne J. Friedler, M.D. F.A.A.D., is a board-certified fellow of the American Academy of Dermatology, with expertise in many areas of medical and cosmetic dermatology. She has been with Advanced Dermatology PC since 2002.
Advanced Dermatology P.C. and the Center for Laser and Cosmetic Surgery (New York & New Jersey) is one of the leading dermatology centers in the nation, offering highly experienced physicians in the fields of cosmetic and laser dermatology as well as plastic surgery and state-of-the-art medical technologies. http://www.advanceddermatologypc.com.
SOURCE Advanced Dermatology PC
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