Many clients do not wash their faces properly. Some clients’ face-washing routine may be as simple as splashing water on their faces. These clients are not only doing their skin a disservice, but they are also making their skin worse. Consumers often learn their skin care techniques from social media, magazines, television, or at-home beauty parties. How can skin care professionals help clients if they are listening to the wrong experts? It starts with education! The professional’s job is to educate clients about why each step of the homecare routine is crucial.

Cleansing is the first step to proper skin care. The skin is a detox organ, which means all the toxins on the inside comes out through sebaceous and sudoriferous glands. If clients do not cleanse properly, not only can it result in comedones or acne, but it can worsen dry skin. Explain to clients that, by using a facial cleanser designed for their specific skin’s needs, they will stop drying their skin out and remove the dirt, oil, and pollution that is now accumulating on the surface. Educate clients about the importance of twice-daily cleansing and provide them with a cleanser that will support their skin while maintaining their barrier.

Once clients understand the importance of a cleanser, professionals can educate clients on using the right moisturizer. Even acneic clients need moisturizer to normalize sebum. Depending on the season, the type of moisturizer will shift, as will the need to layer facial oils over the moisturizer. Many moisturizers are water-in-oil based; as the moisturizer is applied, the water evaporates, leaving the remainder of the mixture to hydrate the skin. These types of moisturizers are best for normal-to-oily skin types. When emulsifiers are added, the moisturizer becomes oil-in-water based and act as an occlusive to help hold the cells together so the moisture stays in the skin. These types of moisturizers are best for dry, dehydrated, or sensitive skin.

Many clients skip their morning or night routines because they do not know what to use or they are too busy or tired at the end of the day. Listen to clients and help them create a simple and easy-to-manage homecare routine that works with their schedules.
Cleansing and moisturizing twice a day make a big impact on a client’s skin. Professionals know the majority of first-time clients do not do these steps on a regular basis. It is impractical to sell clients other products in a line if they are skipping these first two important steps. Professionals can start by educating clients about the importance of cleansing and moisturizing twice a day to keep their skin looking and feeling its best.