Choosing a cosmetic is both a time and money investment. Yet, even after thorough research and a hefty investment, that coveted product may not deliver the desired effect. Various factors could be at play, but the root of the issue might be simpler than you think: perhaps your skin isn't properly cleansed.
"Grime, oiliness, and even dead cells on the outermost layer of the skin hinder the penetration of active ingredients in cosmetics. Consequently, the product fails to deliver the intended effect, and there's also the risk of ingredients being trapped in the wrong layer of the skin tissue, which can lead to reactions like contact dermatitis from primary irritants," explains Danilo S. Talarico, a physician specializing in Medical Trichology and Clinical and Surgical Dermatology.
So, to ensure the maximum effectiveness of cosmetics, it's crucial to cleanse the skin daily. "Cleansing should be done, at most, twice a day with a soap or cleanser specifically tailored to your skin type. Use only your hands, avoiding sponges or similar tools, and opt for warm or cold water, but never hot," advises Danilo.
Moreover, if you wear makeup, it's essential to remove it before cleansing, as basic hygiene products like soaps and cleansing lotions may not completely eliminate all makeup residues. Instead, opt for a makeup remover or cleansing oil. "Makeup removers in lotion, gel, and foam forms are great for removing lighter residues like lipstick, blush, and powder eyeshadow. However, for long-lasting and waterproof products, it's best to use biphasic makeup removers or cleansing oil," suggests dermatologist Paola Pomerantzeff, a member of the Brazilian Society of Dermatology.
Another strategy to ensure truly effective cleansing and proper product penetration into the skin is to invest in exfoliation. "Exfoliants are products formulated with granular or enzymatic particles that help remove dead cells from the skin's surface, enhancing the effectiveness of subsequent cosmetics while making the skin smoother, more luminous, and with a renewed appearance," explains Lilian Brasileiro, a physician and member of the Brazilian Society of Dermatology.
However, this doesn't mean you should use the product daily. "Excessive use of exfoliants can cause irritation, redness, and sensitivity, lead to a rebound effect in oiliness, and even worsen pigmentation. Therefore, it's not recommended to use it daily. The ideal frequency may vary according to skin type and individual sensitivity, but generally, it's recommended to exfoliate once a week or every two weeks," advises the physician.
Although proper home hygiene is an important step in ensuring the effectiveness of cosmetics, sometimes it's necessary to invest in something more, and fortunately, there are modern technologies available today that perform this action, such as HydraFacial, which provides a true in-office skincare experience, covering all essential steps in daily skin care but in a much more potent manner.
