The clip below is a close-up facial extraction session from our archive and contains close-up skin footage. It does not compare products, and we are not recommending any brand or method shown in it. Extraction is a professional step that a cleanser cannot replace, so use the video as a reminder to be gentle with your own skin and to leave extractions to trained hands.
Which Is Better for Blemish-Prone Skin?
For most people with breakouts, micellar water is the easier choice. It is gentle, it is unlikely to leave a film on the skin, and it can be followed by a water-based foaming cleanser. The American Academy of Dermatology also recommends a gentle foaming face wash for oily skin and says not to use oil-based or alcohol-based cleansers, because they can irritate the skin. Look for products labelled oil-free and non-comedogenic, and avoid anything heavily fragranced.
A cleansing oil still has a place on days when you wear waterproof makeup or a thick layer of sunscreen. In that case, choose a non-comedogenic formula, massage it in on dry skin, emulsify it with a little water, rinse thoroughly, and follow with a gentle water-based cleanser. If your skin gets new bumps within a week or two of starting an oil, stop and go back to your old routine.
Do You Need to Double Cleanse?
Double cleansing means cleansing twice, first with an oil-based product and then with a water-based cleanser. The Cleveland Clinic reports that most dermatologists do not recommend it as a standard step, because washing twice can cause dryness and irritation. A dermatologist quoted there suggests that using micellar water before a water-based cleanser is a good alternative if you want to remove all your makeup.
The Cleveland Clinic adds that double cleansing makes sense mainly if you wear makeup, and that for people who do not, it can unnecessarily complicate the routine and be more drying. If you wear sunscreen daily, which you should, read our guide to sunscreen for acne-prone skin to see how much cleansing you really need in the evening.
How to Cleanse Gently With Blemish-Prone Skin
- Wash twice a day, in the morning and at night, and after heavy sweating. More than that can strip the skin of oil.
- Use lukewarm water and your fingertips. Avoid scrubbing, rough cloths and hot water.
- Pat the skin dry with a clean towel instead of rubbing.
- Add one new product at a time, so you know what helps and what irritates.
- Follow cleansing with a light moisturiser and daily sunscreen.
If clogged pores are your main concern, our guides on how to get rid of blackheads and salicylic acid for acne explain what can help beyond cleansing. Resist the urge to squeeze, and read why you should not pop pimples before you try. If you enjoy calm skin care footage, you can also watch our gentle facial cleansing video or the facial cleansing face-off clip.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
The biggest mistake is cleansing too often or too hard. Over-washing can leave the skin tight, dry and irritated, which may make oil production and breakouts worse. Another is skipping the rinse after an oil cleanser, which can leave residue on the skin. A third is using too many new products at once. Introduce one change every couple of weeks and give it time before you judge it. If your pores look larger than you would like, see how to minimize pores for realistic options, and use exfoliation sparingly, as described in how to exfoliate your face safely.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is micellar water or cleansing oil better for acne-prone skin?
For most people with acne-prone skin, micellar water is the lower-risk choice, because it is light and gentle. A cleansing oil can work for removing sunscreen and makeup, but the Cleveland Clinic notes that oil-based cleansers can cause breakouts in acne-prone skin, especially when they are used alone. If you try one, rinse it off well and follow with a water-based cleanser.
Do I need to rinse micellar water off?
Many people leave it on and simply wipe, and the product is designed to feel like splashing your face with water. If your skin is oily or acne-prone, however, a quick rinse or a follow-up with a gentle cleanser can leave the skin feeling cleaner. Check the label of your product, and stop if you notice stinging or redness.
Can cleansing oil clog pores?
It can in some people, especially if it is not rinsed off properly or is used alone on acne-prone skin. The American Academy of Dermatology advises people with oily skin not to use oil-based cleansers, because they can irritate the skin. Look for products labelled non-comedogenic and patch test first.
Should I double cleanse if I have acne?
Most dermatologists do not recommend it as a routine, according to the Cleveland Clinic, and washing twice in a row can dry out the skin. It is mainly useful on days when you wear waterproof makeup or a lot of sunscreen. On other days, one gentle cleanse is enough.
How often should I wash my face with acne?
Twice a day, in the morning and in the evening, and after heavy sweating. More than that can strip the skin of oil and lead to irritation, so avoid cleansing again and again through the day.
This article is for general information only and is not medical advice. If you have painful, inflamed or persistent spots, please consult a dermatologist or another qualified healthcare professional.
