Should You Use a Washcloth in Your Skincare Routine? - Reviva Labs (2024)

FAQs

Do you need a washcloth in your skincare routine? ›

So, should you use a washcloth in your skincare routine? The answer is that it depends. If you have sensitive skin or are prone to irritation, it might be best to avoid using a washcloth. But if you're looking for a cost-effective way to exfoliate and deep clean your skin, a washcloth can be a useful tool.

The verdict: We recommend skipping the washcloth for face cleansing. The risk of spreading acne-causing bacteria and clogging pores with debris is high, and dry areas can form from daily friction. If you love using your washcloth for showers, then Dr. Schlessinger recommends reserving it for use on the body.

Unlike disposable wipes or synthetic materials, cotton washcloths are free from harsh chemicals that can irritate your skin. They provide a natural and eco-friendly alternative that is safe for even the most sensitive skin types.

You need to properly exfoliate your skin at least once a day. A washcloth made of 100% cotton is the best way to do it.

You should wash your towels and washcloths after every 3-5 uses, although some experts say your washcloth should only be used once before washing.

Washcloths used on the face are especially important to keep clean. Touching your eyes, nose or mouth with a dirty washcloth is an easy way to introduce bacteria and spread infection. To prevent the spread of bacteria, you should machine wash your washcloths every three to four days -- or more often, if you prefer.

But according to dermatologist Karan Sra, reusing a wash cloth can absolutely cause or exacerbate skin conditions, like acne or folliculitis (when the hair follicle becomes infected and inflamed). “Washcloths are the perfect place for bacteria to grow,” Sra explains.

Just make sure that you replace your sponge every other month. Of course, sometimes it's preference alone that'll help you decide what to wash your face with, but if you're looking for something to remove dirt and grime while revealing smoother, brighter skin, the konjac sponge is the clear winner.

Some new products, such as silicone brushes and body mitts are emerging as a replacement to the loofah. Because silicone is non-porous, these products don't suffer from the same bacterial growth as washcloths and loofahs while still providing decent exfoliation.

However, using bare hands may not provide as much exfoliation as using a washcloth or loofah, and may not be as effective at removing dirt, oil, or body odors from the skin. Ultimately, the choice of whether to use a washcloth, loofah, or bare hands to clean the body is a personal one.

What is the best material to wash your face with? ›

Microfiber cloths are an excellent choice for cleansing and drying the face.

I'm sorry to all the loofah lovers out there — a washcloth is the better option of the two. "Loofahs, typically made from dried gourds, provide a vigorous exfoliation, which can be beneficial for those with oily or acne-prone skin," notes Dr. Chacon. Still, they're the much harsher option when it comes to exfoliation.

To exfoliate your face with a washcloth, start by removing your makeup and sunscreen completely with a makeup remover. Once your face is clean and bare, put some face wash on the washcloth and gently move it in circles on your face. Don't press too hard or scrub vigorously; your movements should be gentle and soft.

If you use a scrub or chemical exfoliator, apply the product gently using small, circular motions. Do this for about 30 seconds, and then rinse off with lukewarm — not hot — water. If you use a brush or sponge, use short light strokes. Never exfoliate if you have open cuts or wounds or if your skin is sunburned.

Use your washcloth: Wet your washcloth and wipe away the cleanser and residue gently. Run the cloth in water periodically until the cleanser is gone, avoiding the eye area. Splash some extra water on your face to remove any stubborn debris. Be careful to rinse your hairline, neck and jawline, too.

Cleanser and SPF moisturizer will be fixtures in your routine, and some dermatologists may recommend an over-the-counter retinol product or antioxidant serum as a preventative measure to stimulate collagen production.

What steps should a skin-care routine include? The basic steps of a skin-care routine are a gentle cleanser, a moisturizer, and a sunscreen, Emily Newsom, M.D., a board-certified dermatologist at Ronald Reagan UCLA Medical Center, tells SELF. Seriously, that's all you have to do.

Water alone is not sufficient to remove dirt, make-up, and other impurities. Therefore, washing your face with only water benefits very few factors. What's more, the optimal pH value for the skin on the face and body lies between 4.7 and 5.75.