Face washing
[1] In 600 BC, plants and natural substances like tree ash and animal fat were added to soap made by Phoenicians.
Plant extracts are still seen to be added to face cleansers available in the market due to a wide range of proven benefits.
[2] The face is seen as an important part of the human body to represent the image of an individual, especially in the East Asian community.
The focus shifts and embeds to the aspect of healthy skin and appearance in theory nowadays, with more cleansing products invented aiming to improve the quality of face washing.
With a weakened barrier in protecting the skin, stimuli like heat, pain, itch and electrical can have greater effect in individuals.
This condition also results in a higher prevalence of suffering from cutaneous disorders like acne, rosacea, skin allergies and more.
[10] Surfactant, also known as surface-active agents or emulsifiers, is the major component in common cleansers available for face washing products.
[2] While this process occurs, it helps lower the tension in between layers, and encourages dirt particles and oil to come out as bubbles form.
They aim to remove excess sebum secretions after the use of cleanser, and create a mild exfoliating effect for the skin.
[15] With a compromised protective barrier to your face, wounding may occur and it would introduce a myriad of microbes to the injury site.
The ability to regenerate and repair the skin becomes less efficient, prolonging the recovery time for cuts, abrasions, or acne scars.
[18] Washing the face repetitively, especially with harsh cleansers or alkaline products, can disturb the skin's pH balance, negatively affecting the stratum corneum and its barrier functions, leading to increased water loss, dryness, heightened sensitivity, and a higher susceptibility to infections and skin disorders.
Allergic reactions may happen to individuals after certain face washing experiences, including changing to a new facial cleanser.
Facial cleansers may include certain ingredients that some individuals are sensitive to, manifesting reactions such as redness, itching, swelling, or rashes.
For individuals who experience allergic reactions after using new products, it is recommended to read ingredient labels carefully when purchasing facial cleansers and to consult a doctor if necessary.
Face-washing procedures, including wetting, cleansing, and massaging, have to be performed on a regular basis to maintain healthy skin.
A lather should be created while gently rubbing a small amount of the cleanser, followed by massaging the face in a circular motion.
When choosing a face-washing cleanser, consideration should be given to the specific skin type, including whether it is dry, oily, combination, or sensitive.
