What is Dry Washing or Dry Cleansing? The best method of Face Washing Ever?

What is Dry Washing or Dry Cleansing? The best method of Face Washing Ever? : Hey guys, so “Dry Washing” or “Dry Cleansing” is becoming increasingly popular these days. I have been trying out this method of washing my face for a while now, may be 2 months to be precise. So today, I am going to talk all about it. The actual method or procedure, the steps involved, do’s and dont’s, pros and cons etc.

Lets get started.

Dry Washing – Who Started this?

The first time I saw people talk about this was around August 2014. Although I cannot find any authentic data about the actual source, I am kind of sure it was a skin expert who came up with this technique. Because I found many referring to dematologists and skin estheticians.

Step by Step Method of Dry Washing

Step 1 – Selecting the Right Cleanser

According to me, you are the best judge of which cleanser suits you the best. Of course, always listen to the experts and people who know about skin care. But at the end of the day, make your own informed decision. If you are facing any special condition or your skin needs special care, definitely consult a dermatologist.

I have read some articles on blogs and magazines how alkaline environment is good for bacteria. Let me tell you, they are not entirely correct. It is true that you should avoid using anything with an alkaline pH on your skin, but I’d like to go into the details. Let me tell you the gist in the next paragraph.

So most bacteria thrive in pH around neutral ranges which is 7. Our skin surface has an acidic pH close to 5. Our blood pH on the contrary is slightly alkaline close to 7.4. This is basically a protective host mechanism, so that if a skin surface bacteria enters the blood stream, it does not survive there. Now, point to remember here is, Natural Skin pH is acidic close to 5.

When we use alkaline or basic products on our skin, we disrupt the natural pH of the skin. Therefore the natural flora of the skin gets disturbed. Alkaline pH also is known to make the skin swell up a little. The natural flora of the skin protects against harmful external bacteria. Therefore when the natural flora is gone, we start experiencing skin problems related to external microbes.

So as a doctor, I would always suggest you to look into the pH of the product that you use on the skin. Make sure it is slightly acidic. Products with alkaline pH are not good for the skin. However please note, there is an exception to this rule under special skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis. Patients of such skin conditions benefit from products with alkaline pH.

In general, for normal people, as a rule of thumb, always try to avoid using harsh surfactant based cleansers on a daily basis. Look for cleansers free from alcohol and fragrances.

Step 2 – Gently Massage the Cleanser in an Upward Motion

Apply the cleanser directly on your face without taking any water. Do not wet your face before applying the cleanser! This is the best way that the cleanser can work in loosening up all the dirt, grime and pollution logged into the pores of the skin. Take your time and give a nice massage so that the dirt can nicely come out of the pores. Also, upward motion helps in proper lymphatic drainage.

Step 3 – Use a little Water and loosen up the dirt a little more

Now, take some water in your hands and repeat the step 2. This will help further mobilise the impurities out of the pores.

Step 4 – Final Rinse

Finally, use normal water or lukewarm water and properly wash away all the product including the impurities from the skin. In this step you rinse the skin nicely, so that the skin is left thoroughly cleansed.

Is Dry Washing safe for everyone?

If you suffer from chronic skin conditions, if you have active acne, if you have eczema, psoriasis or any condition which needs special attention, please consult your dermatologist before trying to use this method. Otherwise in general, this method is safe for all skin types. Just make sure the cleanser that you choose is suited to your skin type.

PROs of Dry Washing the Face or Skin

Dry washing is literally the best way to deep cleanse the skin. The ingredients in the cleanser are able to work on the skin in the form they are intended to. This method deep cleanses the pores and does not let dirt and oils accumulate in the pores. I personally used to get those tiny bumps on my skin which are a result of blocked pores. Since I have started using this technique to cleanse my skin, my skin looks smoother as well as fresher.

In addition, whenever I cleanse my face by “Dry Washing”, I notice zero impurities on the cotton pad while using a toner. Therefore these days I have started patting the toner into my skin rather than using it on a cotton pad.

CONs of Dry Washing the Face or Skin

Some people believe that dry washing can replace makeup removal methods. Well I believe otherwise. According to me, the correct order would be – remove makeup properly and then dry wash the face. Do not skip makeup removal or else you won’t get the best results out of this technique.

Also, like I mentioned above, this method may not be suitable for beauties who suffer from certain skin conditions. For any specific skin condition, always remember to consult your doctor.

Final Thoughts

I honestly truly believe that I have found my Holy Grail method of cleansing my skin. I have never seen my skin look so radiant, fresh and smooth. I cannot stress enough how important it is to choose the correct cleanser when you’re planning to dry wash your skin. Once you get yourself a good suitable cleanser, and you perform this method of cleansing your face, trust me your life will never be the same. You are going to notice so much positive change in your skin right starting from the first wash itself.

Things to remember

1. Do not over-cleanse the skin. What I mean is, please do not go overboard with this method. Just cleanse and massage for a 2-5 minutes. Also, don’t wash your face more frequently than normal. According to me, washing the face twice in a day is enough. In addition, after you sweat.
2. Never forget to use your toner and moisturiser after cleansing the skin.
3. Try to relax when you are gently massaging your face.
4. This method helps so so so much in getting rid of blackheads and whiteheads. So if you’re someone who struggles with these, definitely try using this method.
5. Lastly, please do not try this method with a scrub or any abrasive product. This method is supposed to be used with a cleanser which is gentle yet effective on the skin.

If you have any further questions, please comment below and I will answer you as soon as possible. This method literally has made such a huge difference in my skin, I wanted to share with all of you. If you have any suggestions on how I can improve my cleansing routine, please do share with me. 🙂

Love
Astha