How to cleanse sensitive and rosacea prone skin.

Dr. Irwin
December 7, 2014
What an AMAZING sight u have....I visit it often!! I have a couple questions that I would like to know the truth about! :) 1. Is it safe to cleanse your face with face wash and a baby rag or cotton round? I read that using items like that on your skin can cause damage and darkening of the skin. I don't put anything on it I just wet it and use a cotton round or baby rag after I rince off my cleanser to make sure everything is removed and to remove any dead skin. Would it be better to use a Clarisonic? I have sensitve/rosacea skin that's acne prone and on the dry side. I read on one of ur post that the best cleanser for sensitive skin is the Clarisonic with the sensitive brush but do u use it with a gentle cleanser? Or will the movement of the Clarisonic remove makeup? 2. What are your thoughts on silicones in cosmetics for acne prone skin? I read up on it and it says that it's not pore clogging but that u have to make sure it is THOROUGHLY removed and if it's not then it will cause breakouts....but that just a regular cleanser like cerave hydrating cleanser isn't enough to remove it thoroughly. What is the best way to make sure everything whether makeup or sunscreen is removed thoroughly?? Thanks :)

Thank you and I’m glad you wrote because many people seemed confused about a lot of these points.

  • For sensitive skin, you’re fine with a gentle cleanser and a baby rag or cotton round.  Just don’t scrub – gentle is good;
  • The Clarisonic with the sensitive brush will help with the acne component of your skin and yes,  stick with a gentle cleanser with the brush;
  • Honestly, I don’t see the point of silicones in most skin care product, except certain scar treatment products in high concentrations.   They are occlusive and are mainly put in skin care products to help with spreadability.  I would vote for avoiding them if you can.

To thoroughly remove the makeup – a gentle makeup remover or baby shampoo with a wipe around the eye area, then the Clarisonic head for sensitive skin and a gentle cleanser should do it!  Some gentle cleansers here or Cerave is fine.

Dr. I

Dr. Brandith Irwin, MD

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Hi, I’m Dr. Irwin. I believe that consumers deserve a medically trained and unbiased skin care advocate.

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