Expert Tips from Dr. Lee, a Renowned Dermatologist in Korea, on How to Achieve Healthy Skin with the Right.
In recent years, Korean skincare has gained global recognition, not only for its innovative products but also for the expertise behind it. One of the leading figures in this movement is Dr. Lee, a dermatologist with over 10 years of experience practicing in the heart of Seoul, particularly in Gangnam—a district known for its competitive beauty industry. Despite the intense pressure to offer commercialized treatments, Dr. Lee has remained committed to providing honest and effective skincare advice. His YouTube channel, now with over 710,000 subscribers, was born out of his passion for helping people worldwide achieve healthy, glowing skin. On this platform, Dr. Lee shares simple, safe, and professional skincare tips that anyone can follow at home.
In a world where many professionals focus on commercial gains, Dr. Lee’s approach is refreshingly straightforward and patient-centric. He believes in providing accessible skincare knowledge, without the pressure of unnecessary treatments. Today, we’ll be diving into one of the most crucial aspects of skincare:
Cleansing Routine- the correct way to cleanse your skin based on your skin type.
Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ehiNXgNPshc&t=147s
Why Cleansing is Crucial for Your Skin
As the weather warms up, especially in summer, people tend to apply more sunscreen and makeup. But despite diligently washing your face, you may still encounter issues like breakouts or residue left on your skin. This is where proper cleansing becomes essential, and using the right products for your skin type can make all the difference.
When it comes to skincare, double cleansing has become a popular practice, but what exactly does it mean, and is it necessary for everyone? While the term was coined by marketing strategies to promote more products, double cleansing serves a functional purpose. Especially in summer when sunscreen is heavily applied, it ensures that all traces of makeup and sunscreen are thoroughly removed from your skin.
The Proper Cleansing Method for Different Skin Types
1. Double Cleansing: Why and How to Do It
Double cleansing involves two steps: first, using an oil-based cleanser to remove sunscreen, makeup, and other oil-based impurities, and then following up with a water-based cleanser (such as a foam cleanser) to clean the skin further.
Even if you think you’ve washed your face thoroughly, you may still see traces of sunscreen or makeup left behind. This is because regular foam cleansers may not fully break down the oils in products like sunscreen. To truly cleanse your skin, you need the power of an oil-based cleanser (such as cleansing balms, oils, or lotions) to dissolve the oils first, followed by a regular foam cleanser to wash away any remaining residue.
Dr. Lee demonstrates this with two rounds of cleansing. After applying sunscreen and cleansing once with a regular foam cleanser, traces of the sunscreen remain on the skin, showing the importance of a second cleansing step to ensure your face is truly clean and free of buildup.
2. Choosing the Right Cleanser for Your Skin Type
While double cleansing is important for most people, the specific products you use depend on your skin type. There’s no one-size-fits-all solution, and you need to select cleansers that work for your unique skin needs.
- For Dry Skin: If your skin feels tight and dry after washing, it might be more prone to dehydration. In this case, you should use cleansing products that are more hydrating and gentle. Opt for cleansing oils, creams, or balms that contain nourishing oils like sunflower seed oil or olive oil, which are rich in moisture.
- For Oily Skin: Many people with oily skin tend to shy away from oils, but cleansing oils are actually effective for breaking down oil-based impurities like sunscreen and makeup. You can still use an oil cleanser, but be sure to follow up with a light, gel-based cleanser that won’t clog your pores.
- For Sensitive Skin: If you have sensitive skin, look for cleansing products with fewer ingredients that won’t irritate or cause redness. Avoid cleansers with harsh chemicals or fragrances. Dr. Lee recommends cleansing balms or oils that are non-comedogenic and designed for sensitive skin.
3. Understanding Ingredients is Key
No matter which type of cleanser you choose, the most important factor is the ingredients. Even if you have oily skin, using an oil-based cleanser that works well for your skin is perfectly fine. Dr. Lee suggests using the “Hwahae” app, which helps you check the ingredients in your products. This tool allows you to analyze whether any specific ingredients in your skincare routine may be causing problems like breakouts or irritation.
Dr. Lee shares that while many YouTubers and skincare experts might recommend products based on general rules (like “avoid oil-based cleansers if you have acne”), the truth is that skin care is not a one-size-fits-all matter. It’s important to understand what ingredients work best for your specific skin type and to choose products based on how your skin responds.
4. How to Tell Your Skin Type
Knowing your skin type is crucial to selecting the right skincare products. Here’s how to determine your skin type:
- Dry Skin: Your skin may feel tight and uncomfortable after washing, and you might experience flakiness. If you experience tightness within a few minutes to an hour after cleansing, you likely have dry skin.
- Oily Skin: If your face produces excess oil, especially by midday, and you feel the need to blot with oil-absorbing sheets, you likely have oily skin.
- Combination Skin: This is a mix of both oily and dry skin types. You may have an oily T-zone but dry patches around your cheeks.
- Sensitive Skin: If your skin reacts to new products or environmental changes, leading to redness, irritation, or breakouts, you may have sensitive skin.
5. The Importance of Customizing Your Routine
At the end of the day, skincare is highly personal. The right cleanser for you will depend on your unique skin type and any specific concerns you may have (like acne, dehydration, or sensitivity). Take the time to understand your skin, track how it reacts to certain products, and find a routine that works best for you.
Conclusion
Skincare doesn’t have to be complicated. By understanding your skin type and using the right products for your specific needs, you can achieve a healthier, clearer complexion. Dr. Lee’s approach is simple, patient-centered, and focuses on the importance of using safe, effective ingredients. Remember, skincare is not about following the latest trends but about what works best for your skin.
If you found these tips helpful, feel free to share this article with your friends and family who might also be interested in improving their skincare routine. With proper care and understanding of your skin, achieving beautiful, healthy skin is entirely possible!
Recommended Products:
- Cleansing oils for dry and sensitive skin
- Gel-based cleansers for oily skin
- Gentle cleansing balms for all skin types
This blog post is based on insights shared by Dr. Lee, a trusted dermatologist with over 10 years of experience in the skincare field. With his honest approach to skincare, he’s helped countless people achieve better skin health worldwide.