You just stepped out of the shower, you’ve washed your face with your favorite cleanser, and yet… your skin still feels greasy. Or worse, it feels like there’s still a layer of dirt or product sitting on top. Sound familiar?
You’re not alone. Many people go through the motions of washing their face every day but never really get that deep clean feeling — the kind that makes your skin feel fresh, breathable, and genuinely clean.
Let’s break down the real secrets to effective facial cleansing and why your current routine might be letting you down.
1. Understand Your Skin Type First
Before we talk about how to wash your face, let’s talk about what you’re washing.
There are five common skin types:
- Oily — Skin tends to shine and feel greasy, especially in the T-zone.
- Dry – Skin feels tight, rough, or flaky.
- Combination – Oily in some areas (usually the T-zone), dry in others.
Sensitive Skin reacts easily to products and environmental triggers.
Normal, Balanced and relatively problem-free.
Knowing your skin type helps you choose the right products because the wrong ones could be making your problems worse.
Woman pouring micellar water from bottle onto cotton pad against beige background, closeup
2. Double Cleansing Is a Game Changer
If you wear sunscreen, makeup, or live in a dusty or humid environment (hello, Nigeria!), one wash isn’t always enough.
Here’s how double cleansing works:
Step 1: Use an oil-based cleanser or cleansing balm to break down sunscreen, makeup, and excess sebum.
Step 2: Follow with a water-based cleanser (gel, foam, or cream, depending on your skin type) to clean sweat, dirt, and any leftover residue.
This method ensures you’re not just wiping the surface, but actually cleaning deep within the pores.
3. Take Your Time — 60 Seconds Rule
You’re probably rushing through your cleanse splashing water and rubbing for 10 seconds max.
Instead, follow the 60-second rule:
> Gently massage your cleanser into your skin for a full minute.
This allows the ingredients to actually do their job, breaks down buildup more effectively, and boosts blood circulation for that healthy glow.
4. Avoid Hot Water
I get it hot water feels relaxing. But it’s one of the silent culprits that strips your skin of natural oils and damages the barrier.
Use lukewarm water instead.
It’s gentle, helps open up pores without being harsh, and prevents irritation.
5. Don’t Skip Toner
A good toner helps restore pH balance and preps your skin for moisturizers or treatments.
Look for:
Hydrating toners (for dry or sensitive skin)
Exfoliating toners with AHA/BHA (for oily or acne-prone skin)
It’s that middle step that often makes your skin go from clean-ish to deep clean and glowing.
6. Exfoliate — But Don’t Overdo It
Dead skin cells love to hang around and clog your pores. But don’t attack your face with a scrub every day.
Chemical exfoliants (like glycolic acid, salicylic acid, or lactic acid) are gentler and more effective.
Limit to 2–3 times a week depending on your skin’s tolerance.
Exfoliating helps your cleanser work better and improves texture over time.
7. Watch Your Towel and Pillowcase
Your skincare products might be fine but if you’re drying your face with a dirty towel or sleeping on the same pillowcase for a week, you’re putting all that dirt right back.
Use a clean, soft towel just for your face.
Change your pillowcase at least twice a week.
Tiny habits. Big difference.
8. What to Avoid During Cleansing
Let’s clear up some popular but harmful habits:
Scrubbing your face hard (gentle is better)
Using bar soap on your face (too drying)
Skipping a cleanser and just rinsing with water
Using harsh alcohol-based products
Thinking “more foam = better clean” (it’s just bubbles!)
9. Listen to Your Skin
If your skin feels tight after cleansing, it’s a sign your cleanser is too harsh.
If you still feel oily, your cleanser might be too mild or you’re missing the double cleanse.
Skin speaks, pay attention to what it’s telling you.
Cleansing is the Foundation
Cleansing isn’t just the first step in skincare, it’s the foundation. If you don’t do it right, every other product you use afterward won’t work as effectively.
So if your face still feels clogged or oily after washing, it might not be your skin acting up it might just be time to change the way you cleanse.
Have a favorite cleanser that changed your skin game? Or do you struggle with getting that clean-skin feel?
Share your experience in the comments!
Tag someone who’s still washing their face with just water and vibes