You might be thinking "Why would I need instructions on how to wash my face?"  Because washing your face properly could be the difference between maintaining healthy radiant skin, and skin that constantly experiences breakouts. 

As a woman in her 50's who is constantly mistaken for a 20 something I can tell you we should all be washing our face twice a day.  Once in the morning, and at night followed by a glass of water about an hour before bed.

Please keep in mind, it is just as important to moisturize; and hydrate your skin as well.  But when it comes to washing your face.......it being done properly will make all the difference in the world.  Your skin type does not matter, but what is most important is incorporating and sticking with a daily skincare routine, and your nighttime routine is very important.

STEP #1 - Properly remove any dirt, grease, and or makeup with a gentle cleanser, and or wipes.  Many say you should not use makeup wipes to begin the makeup removal process, but I've been using gentle makeup wipes for years and have had no problem. 

Besides, the makeup wipe is used to remove some of the makeup, the facial cleanser is what's going to actually get the job done. 

STEP #2 - I can tell you with great certainty to stay away from bar soap, as it can cause yeast growth, and bacteria in the skin.  This is one of the fastest ways to cause a breakout, and sometimes a painful one.  I would also recommend staying away from foaming cleansers because they can strip your skin of its natural oils.

Clear unscented facial cleansers are perfect for most skin types, and many give your skin an instant glow right away.

STEP #3 - Water temperature definitely matters, and lukewarm is best!  Lukewarm is best because if the water is too hot or too cold, it could cause irritation.  Your skin is sensitive, so it's best to be gentle at all times.

STEP #4 - Exfoliate and be gentle when doing so.  Exfolation should be done in gentle circles for about a minute or two.  Scrubbing too hard or for too long can cause irritation and even abrasions.  After all.......exfoliating is a way of cleaning your pores, the removal of dead skin cells, and revealing your skins natural glow.

The best facial cleansers contain, glycolic acid, salicylic acid, fruit enzymes, or lactic acid.  Never use facial cleansers that contain perfumes or dyes.  You definitely want to stay away from bar soap.

STEP #5 - Micellar Water Can be Your Best Friend! Especially for those who don't wear makeup, as you can wash your face with micellar water only.  Believe it or not, many who have had youthful looks for decades........only use water to wash their faces.  It has been said that washing with just water helps to preserve the youthful look, and it keeps wrinkles away.  

Plus, micellar water helps to breakdown, and remove dirt, oil, and makeup.  Do yourself a favor and invest in some micellar water, as you won't regret it.

STEP #6 - All you need is a great facial sponge, not all the extra tools.  The investment in a steamer is also a great idea.  Never use Loofah Sponges, as they collect tons of bacteria.  Our Compact facial sponges are perfect for cleansing, exfoliating, and are gentle to your skin; and perfect for all skin types.  These can easily be found on our website.

STEP #7 - Necks need love too!  Be sure to cleanse your neck and jawline, and be sure to massage in an upward motion.  I also like to massage my forehead in an upward motion moving from one temple to the other.  This helps to keep the skin intact, and is great for removing forehead lines, and wrinkles.

STEP #8 - Never Rub.  Remeber to Pat Dry your skin after cleansing, making sure to be gentle with your undereye area.  

STEP #9 - Everything in Moderation.  Using the proper steps, being consistent, and being mindful is to glowing, youthful looking skin!  Never forget the magical power of drinking water.  Water is key to a healthy lifestyle, and is very important when trying to obtain and/ or maintain healthy beautiful skin!

STEP #10 - Rethink Toners!  Many people often skip using a toner, and maybe you'll rethink it after reading this.  Think of toner as an extra added layer of protection.  It rebalances the skin by resetting its PH.  

Toners also have many great benefits!  My favorite toner is Witch Hazel, because it heals, and helps to fight acne.  Rosewater has great anti-aging properties, and chamomile is very soothing.

STEP #11 - Moisturizing is key!  Dry skin is not your friend, and it is definitely not a good look.  Twice a week, I open a capsule of vitamin e and gently massage it into my skin, I pat the excess away, as a part of my nighttime skincare routine.  It keeps the skin super smooth, and very soft.

STEP #12 - Implement a regimen, be consistent, and intentional about taking care of your skin!  Remember to drink plenty of water, and laugh very often, and you'll find your skin will love you right back!

As I preciously stated, drinking water is a major factor in obtaining and or maintaining healthy radiant skin.  There are also other factors in play.  The proper rest, your diet, keeping stress levels low or non-existent, and the proper amount of exercise; can all have a major effect on your skin.  But when the aformentioned is consistent in your life, be ready to be happy with your skin; and to be showered with compliments.