Beauty

Everything you need to know about the “dry face cleansing” method

If you have sensitive skin, it is recommended to use a facial cleanser that contains hyaluronic acid or ceramides to replenish moisture for the skin's protective barrier.

Administrator

25 February, 2024

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Dry cleansing or dry facial cleansing is a method of washing your face without water. Currently, this method is quite popular among TikTok users. Instead of creating a lather with water, all you need to do is apply facial cleanser directly onto your skin. When you massage it, the facial cleanser turns into a white film. After 1 minute, rinse it off with water and continue with the remaining steps of your skincare routine.

Many people believe that the undiluted consistency of the facial cleanser helps enhance the effectiveness of the active ingredients. Let’s answer some questions about this dry cleansing method.

Is dry cleansing effective?

Do not use foaming and gel facial cleansers without water, as they are designed to be used in small amounts with water. If not diluted, they can irritate and dry out the skin, compromising its protective barrier.

Facial cleansers actually work better when activated with water. Moisturizing the skin can help quickly activate the cleansing agents in the formula and enhance the penetration of active ingredients into the skin.

For dry cleansing, it is recommended to use cleansing oils as they are designed to be applied on dry skin. The oil acts as a vacuum cleaner for the oil on your skin, deeply cleansing it. You can use lotion, cream, balm, and oil-based facial cleansers, as well as micellar water for waterless cleansing. They do not contain lipids, such as Cetaphil, which can be applied to the skin, massaged onto the areas to be cleaned, and wiped off without water.

Is dry cleansing safe?

The more active ingredients a product has, the more ingredients will act on the surface of the skin. However, more is not always better, as using too much can cause unwanted side effects. Those with sensitivities or conditions such as eczema and oily skin may experience more severe irritation.

Avoid using products that contain excessive fragrances, acids (especially salicylic and glycolic acids), or benzoyl peroxide directly on the skin without diluting them. Instead, opt for moisturizing facial cleansers that contain hyaluronic acid, ceramides, or plant-based oils.

You only need to know the type of facial cleanser you are using and choose the one that suits your skin’s sensitivity level. According to experts’ advice, avoid using solid soap, gel, or foaming facial cleansers with this method. Instead, choose facial cleansers designed to be applied on dry skin, such as cleansing oils, balms, and creams.

For those with sensitive skin, use facial cleansers that contain hyaluronic acid or ceramides to replenish moisture for the skin’s protective barrier. Also, avoid ingredients such as alcohol, acids, and benzoyl peroxide.

Frequently asked questions

The dry face cleansing method, also known as the oil cleansing method, is a natural way to cleanse your face without using any water. It involves massaging your face with a mixture of natural oils to remove dirt, makeup, and excess sebum, followed by a hot compress to open up pores and remove any remaining impurities.

The method utilizes natural oils that attract and dissolve the oils on your skin, including excess sebum and impurities. The hot compress then opens up your pores, allowing for a deeper cleanse as the dissolved impurities are wiped away.

This method offers a gentle and natural approach to skincare, reducing the risk of irritation and dryness that can be caused by traditional cleansers. It helps balance the skin’s natural oil production, making it suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin. The massage also improves blood circulation and promotes skin cell renewal, resulting in a healthier and more radiant complexion.

A variety of natural oils can be used, including olive oil, coconut oil, jojoba oil, sweet almond oil, and avocado oil. Each oil has unique properties and benefits for the skin. For instance, jojoba oil closely resembles human sebum, making it ideal for balancing oily skin, while avocado oil is rich in vitamins and nutrients that nourish dry skin.

It is generally recommended to start by incorporating the dry face cleansing method into your skincare routine two to three times a week. However, you can adjust the frequency based on your skin’s response. If your skin tolerates it well and you enjoy the results, you can increase the frequency gradually.

Yes, the dry face cleansing method can be beneficial for acne-prone skin. The natural oils used in this method have antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that can help soothe and treat acne. However, it is important to choose non-comedogenic oils that will not clog your pores, such as jojoba oil or grapeseed oil.

You can incorporate the dry face cleansing method as a first step in your evening skincare routine. Start by massaging your face with the oil mixture for a few minutes, followed by the hot compress to remove impurities. Then, you can proceed with the rest of your skincare products, such as toners, serums, and moisturizers.

As with any new skincare method, it is always advisable to perform a patch test before fully incorporating it into your routine. Some people may experience temporary purging, where existing impurities are drawn out, resulting in minor breakouts. However, if you experience persistent irritation or adverse reactions, discontinue use and consult a dermatologist.