At Nefertiti we often hear our clients say they don't do the first part in their skincare routine which is cleansing! Often they are using just using water or facial wipes. When it comes to skincare, proper cleansing is the foundation of healthy, glowing skin. It is often tempting to reach for a quick fix like facial wipes or just splash some water on your face, especially when you're in a hurry or too tired after a long day. However, these shortcuts may actually harm your skin in the long run. Cleansing your skin correctly, using the right skincare products, can make a world of difference to your complexion. In this blog, we’ll explore why it’s important to cleanse your skin properly and why facial wipes and water alone just don't cut it.

1. Why Cleansing Matters

Our skin is exposed to a variety of environmental stressors every day—pollution, dirt, excess oil, sweat, and makeup. If not properly removed, these can clog pores, cause breakouts, and lead to dull, tired-looking skin. Proper cleansing removes these impurities, allowing your skin to breathe and function optimally.

Cleansing also helps prepare your skin to absorb the rest of your skincare products, like serums and moisturizers. Without thorough cleansing, these products won’t penetrate as effectively, reducing their benefits.

2. Why Facial Wipes Aren't Enough

Facial wipes may seem like a convenient option, especially when you're on the go, but they aren’t designed for deep cleansing. Here’s why facial wipes are problematic:

a) Incomplete Cleansing

Facial wipes often don’t remove all the dirt and oil from your face. While they may take off surface makeup, they leave behind a residue of product and dirt that can clog your pores, leading to breakouts.

b) Harsh on the Skin

Many facial wipes contain harsh chemicals, alcohol, or fragrances that can irritate and dry out your skin. Regular use can compromise your skin’s natural barrier, leading to sensitivity, redness, and irritation over time.

c) Environmental Impact

Most facial wipes are not biodegradable and contribute to environmental pollution. Using them frequently can result in significant waste.

3. Why Water Alone Isn’t Effective

Water may seem like the simplest and most natural option for washing your face, but it’s not enough to effectively cleanse your skin.

a) Limited Dirt Removal

Water alone does not break down oils, makeup, or sunscreen that accumulate on your skin throughout the day. These substances require emulsifiers or surfactants (found in cleansers) to be properly dissolved and removed.

b) Hard Water Issues

In many areas, tap water is "hard," meaning it contains minerals like calcium and magnesium that can irritate or dry out your skin. Hard water can also leave behind a residue that may disrupt your skin’s pH balance.

4. The Right Way to Cleanse Your Skin

Now that we’ve covered the downsides of facial wipes and plain water, let's discuss how to properly cleanse your skin. A good skincare routine starts with a quality cleanser like Hale and Hush Quiet wash great for all skin types and concerns and leaves the skin feeling hydrated, fresh and most importantly clean. 

a) Choose the Right Cleanser

There are various cleansers available, from gel-based cleansers like Nef Squads client favourite Lira Bio Enzyme Cleanser, foam cleansers like Circadia Lipid Gel Cleanser to oil cleansers like Circadia Vitamin Veil Cleanser and cleansing balms. If you have oily skin, opt for a gel or foaming cleanser that controls excess sebum. For dry or sensitive skin, a gentle cream like Lira Mystiq Illuminating cleanser or oil-based cleanser is ideal, as it won't strip your skin of moisture.

b) Double Cleansing for Best Results

If you wear makeup or sunscreen, consider a double cleansing routine. Start with an oil-based cleanser to dissolve makeup and SPF, followed by a water-based cleanser to remove impurities and excess oil. Double cleansing ensures your skin is thoroughly cleaned without being stripped of its natural oils.

c) Use Lukewarm Water

While hot water can strip your skin of essential oils, cold water might not effectively remove all impurities. Lukewarm water is the best option for rinsing off your cleanser without irritating your skin.

5. The Benefits of Proper Cleansing

Proper cleansing does much more than just clean your skin—it sets the foundation for healthy, glowing skin. Some of the benefits include:

• Clearer Complexion: By thoroughly removing dirt, oil, and makeup, proper cleansing helps prevent breakouts and acne.

• Improved Skin Texture: Regular cleansing promotes smoother, softer skin by removing dead skin cells.

• Anti-Aging: Clean skin absorbs anti-aging products more effectively, allowing them to work better.

• Radiant Glow: Without the build-up of impurities, your skin will look brighter and more refreshed.

6. Conclusion

Proper skin cleansing is the first and most important step in any effective skincare routine. While facial wipes and plain water might seem like easy options, they can’t provide the deep cleanse your skin needs. By using the right cleanser and technique, you can keep your skin healthy, glowing, and free from breakouts. So, next time you feel tempted to grab a wipe or just splash some water, remember: your skin deserves better!

Taking that extra minute or two to cleanse properly will pay off in the long run with clearer, more radiant skin. After all, healthy skin is the best canvas for all your other skincare products to shine!