Do You Exfoliate or Cleanse First?
Written by
May Willis
Published
Tuesday, 26 Nov 2024
11 min. read
Why trust us?
1
CottonNow is incubated at the Harvard Innovation Lab.
2
Science & data-based approach to personal care. Numbers don’t lie.
3
With 10+ years struggling with acne & skin conditions, we understand what it’s like.
Table of Contents
Hey there, skincare aficionados! Have you ever found yourself staring at your collection of skincare products, wondering if you’re using them in the right order? If you’ve ever been puzzled about whether to exfoliate or cleanse first, you’re not alone. This seemingly simple question can actually make a big difference in the effectiveness of your skincare routine. Today, we’re going to unravel this mystery together. So, let’s dive in and get to the bottom of this skincare conundrum, armed with science and expert advice.
Before we dive into whether you should exfoliate or cleanse first, let's understand the basics. This is so that you can understand the full picture and context in order to make an educated decision for your skin!
I. Understanding the Basics:
The Distinction Between Cleansing and Exfoliating
Before we determine the order, it’s essential to understand what cleansing and exfoliating actually do for your skin.
A. Cleansing
is the process of removing dirt, oil, makeup, and impurities from the skin. It’s the first step in any skincare routine and helps to prepare your skin for the subsequent steps by ensuring it’s clean and free from surface grime.
B. Exfoliating
involves removing dead skin cells from the surface of your skin. This can be done using physical exfoliants (scrubs) or chemical exfoliants (AHAs, BHAs). Exfoliation helps to reveal a fresher, more radiant complexion and allows other skincare products to penetrate more effectively.
II. If You Want the Answer Fast: The Optimal Order
Why Cleansing Should Generally Come First
Most skincare experts agree that cleansing should always come first in your routine. Here’s why:
A. Removes Surface Impurities
Cleansing removes the layer of dirt, oil, and makeup that sits on the surface of your skin. This is crucial because if these impurities are not removed first, they can interfere with the exfoliation process and make it less effective. Even worse, if you use a chemical exfoliator without cleansing your skin properly first, the surface impurities can penetrate deeper into the skin after you remove the dead skin cells blocking your pores.
B. Prepares the Skin
By cleansing first, you prepare your skin for exfoliation. Clean skin allows exfoliants to work more effectively, as they can reach the dead skin cells without any barrier, as well as
When you put the two reasons together, the conclusion is that without properly cleansing your face first, the exfoliation won't be effective, nor will it be healthy for your skin.
Alternative Approach, Perspectives & A Longer Answer
While cleansing first is the generally accepted method, there are some experts suggest that exfoliating before cleansing can be beneficial for certain skin types, especially those with very oily skin or those who use heavy makeup. However, we want to stress that this exfoliation is fundamentally different than the the exfoliation we are talking about before. The idea is that exfoliating first can help to break down the buildup of dead skin cells and surface oils, allowing the cleanser to penetrate deeper and clean more effectively.
For this type of exfoliation, you are looking for a physical exfoliation tool before you cleanse to help you remove makeup and impurities before a cleanse. A great way is to apply your oil cleanser or micellar water with our PureNatura towels, which have a textured side for exfoliation before cleansing!
So really, depending on your exfolating method, you can either do it before or after cleanse. If you are using a chemical exfoliator, do it after the cleanse. If you are using a gentle physical exfoliator, do it before the cleanse.
In general, we believe that cleansing should always be before chemical exfoliation. We also recommend doing a bit of gentle physical exfoliation with our towels while removing make up.
III. Best Practices
Skin Type Differences & Frequency Guidelines
When it comes to exfoliation, less is often more. Here are some general guidelines:
A. Normal to Oily Skin
Exfoliate 2-3 times a week. May benefit from exfoliating first to help manage excess oil and prevent clogged pores. If you use a gentle physical exfoliator before the cleanse while removing make up, you can do it every evening.
B. Dry or Sensitive Skin
Exfoliate 1-2 times a week. You want to use a chemical exfoliator very carefully. No more than 1-2 times a week after cleansing to avoid over-stripping the skin. If you use our towels for more gentle exfoliation, you can do it every evening before cleansing. Our 100% cotton towels are safe for dry and sensitive skin, but just don't rub heavily on your skin!
C. Combination Skin
Exfoliate 2 times a week, adjusting based on how your skin feels.
Other Products in Your Routine
The order of exfoliation and cleansing can also be influenced by other products in your routine. For instance, if you’re using a retinoid or other active treatments, you may need to adjust your exfoliation frequency to avoid over-exfoliating and irritating your skin.
Expert Recommendations
Most dermatologists and skincare experts recommend cleansing first for the majority of skin types. However, it’s always best to listen to your skin and adjust your routine as needed. If you’re unsure, consult with a dermatologist to get personalized advice.
Conclusion
By cleansing first, you set the stage for a more effective exfoliation and overall skincare routine. Remember to tailor your routine to your specific skin type and needs, and don’t be afraid to experiment a little to find what works best for you. Here’s to glowing, healthy skin and a skincare routine that truly works wonders. Keep exploring and enjoying your skincare journey, and don't forget to share your experiences with others. Happy skincare!
Cleansing first sets the stage for effective exfoliation and healthier skin. Try it today and see the difference for yourself!
Q&A
It's generally recommended to cleanse first to remove surface impurities, allowing exfoliation to be more effective. This helps to ensure that your skin is properly prepped for exfoliation.
Cleansing before exfoliating removes dirt, oil, and makeup, which can act as barriers. This allows the exfoliants to penetrate deeper and work more effectively, providing a better overall result.
Yes, different skin types can influence the order. For example, oily skin might benefit from exfoliating first to manage excess oil, while dry or sensitive skin should cleanse first to avoid over-stripping the skin.
