Myth busting Cleansing Brushes

Facial cleansing brushes – Myth busting Cleansing Brushes

Facial Cleansing Brushes have been out for some time now… I am Myth busting the Facial Cleansing Brushes.  Here is how I would recommend using them.

It is a handheld device that contains a battery operated motor.  The motor causes a repetitive motion that aids you in cleaning your face.  There is some negativity around them.  Some of this I agree with, but some I don’t.

So, I thought lets take a look and really assess some of your possible thoughts, before you invest in one.  Lets do some myth busting Cleansing Brushes!!

MYTH #1: They’ll irritate my skin and make me break out.

It’s all about knowing your skin type.  Prepping it for cleansing and using and cleaning the brush the right way.  Now, whether you prefer a makeup remover wipe, micellar water, or an oil cleanser, remove your makeup before using a cleansing brush.  Cleansing brushes can’t completely remove makeup by itself.  Worryingly, it can be pushed deeper into pores, which will cause you to break out.

Use plenty of cleanser and water on the brush head to avoid irritation.  If you’re doing everything properly, though, it’s normal to experience an acne flare up after using a cleansing brush for the first time.  Known as the ‘adjustment period.  What’s that saying?  Nothing good comes easy.  Your cheeks, temples, and chin are most prone to breakouts.  Frustrating, I know.

You are probably thinking why?  Well, the reason this happens is; your skin is shedding dead skin cells at a faster pace than normal.  All the underlying bacteria is coming to the surface in the form of spots.

You should see an improvement within 2-3 weeks.  Stick with your usual routine, and your skin will look better than ever.  Pay attention and if your skin stays the same or is getting worse (redness, dryness, sensitivity), just take a break until your skin calms down and goes back to its normal self.

After you’ve given it some time, slowly reintroduce the brush.  Try once a week, initially…

MYTH #2: I have sensitive skin, so I can’t use them.

Not true.  Have a look here what’s best for your sensitive skin.  You just need to use caution and make you don’t go overboard.  Stick with a cleanser that you already know is friendly to your skin.

Use the brush 1-2 times a week and think of it as a treatment for your face.  Make sure to use a light hand and don’t use it on your face for too long.

A silicone brush head, will be kinder to your skin and won’t be so abrasive.

MYTH #3: I’ll just spread bacteria around my face.

This will only happen if you don’t cleanse your brush head properly!!!

Which you need to do after every use.

Rinse under warm water and use an unscented liquid soap to remove dirt and makeup residue.  Massage the silicone bristles for 1 minute.   If you don’t, bacteria will build up and cause breakouts.

Once a week, soak the brush head in bowl of rubbing alcohol for 1 minute, and don’t rinse.  This will kill any remaining bacteria.  Always let your brush head air dry on a clean towel in a well ventilated room.

To remove residue or build up on the handle, clean it at least once a week by removing the attachment head and wiping it thoroughly with a damp, soapy towel.  Never share it with another person; that’s just asking for trouble.

MYTH #4: They’re too expensive.

While cleansing brushes can get pricey, there are plenty of affordable options out there; LA Skincare’s.

Think of it as a long term investment for your skin.  It’s worth the cost.  It’s not like you have to keep buying them once a month!

MYTH #5: I have acne, so using one is out of the question.

Cleansing brushes can actually help treat acne.

They can help eliminate excess sebum, which contributes to acne production.  You just have to pick the right one, and the right cleanser to go with it.

Anything that’s too harsh can exacerbate acne.  Try slowly working up to using it 2-4 times a week and pay attention to whether pimples become angry.  If so, scale back or take a break.

Note: Use caution around cystic acne, which occurs deep below the skin and is often painful.  Brushing can irritate the cysts, leading to more irritation, and allow more bacteria to enter the pores.

MYTH #6: It doesn’t matter what cleanser I use with the brush.

Choosing a gentle cleanser that works well with your skin will give you the best results.

A cream or foaming formula will work best with the brush.   Don’t use a physical or chemical exfoliant while using a cleansing brush.  By this I mean a scrub with little beads or nuts or a cleanser with glycolic acid.

That’ll be exfoliation overload for your skin, which can be responsible for a range of other problems like breaking down skin tissue.  The cleansing brush alone is enough to meet your exfoliation needs.

MYTH #7: I can use the same one on my body.

Whaaaat?????  No way!  If you use the same brush head on your body and then your face, you’re transferring bacteria and dead skin cells.

This increases your chances of a breakout.  Not to mention, the skin on your face is thinner and more delicate than the skin on your body, so body cleansing brushes are designed differently.

The bristles are more firm and cover more area.  They can be way too harsh for your complexion and can cause redness and irritation.

MYTH #8: They’re hard to use.

If cleansing bushes were difficult to use, then why are they so popular?  They may look intimidating, but they’re actually pretty fun, and many people look forward to using them.  To be honest, when we’re feeling lazy, they’re a blessing.  The work is done for us!

To be on the safe side, you can ask your therapist for their recommendations and advice.  Just make sure you read the instructions carefully and don’t be afraid to reach out to the company if you have any questions.  Make sure you’re not pushing the brush down on your skin too hard.

I would also recommend you wash the bristles every few days with a mild liquid soap or shampoo.  Rinse thoroughly and then let it completely air-dry.  To really be on the safe side, it’s not a bad idea to immerse the bristles in rubbing alcohol every week or so.

It goes without saying that you should never use ANY cleansing brush over broken or irritated skin. Also, remember, you don’t have to press down when you’re using it, which could be way too simulating. All you need to do is gently pass it across your skin—it’s truly doing all the work for you!

Finishing with MYTH #9: You need to use them morning and night

No, no, no…  This is far too much for most people!!!  Please…  No matter what any company tells you.  I do not recommend this.  However, listen to your skin.  That is key here!

If your skin is screaming stop.  Please STOP.  Most people can use these every other day, with ease on your skin.  Some people it is more once per week.  It doesn’t matter when you use it.  Just remember it is YOUR skin, not your friends skin.  Please listen and pay attention to your skin.  The only changes we want are positive ones.  No dryness, no flaking, no breakouts (the odd spot is fine, but not excessive), above all no sensitivity.

Lots of love

This is all said with love, I know many people have different opinions and that is absolutely fine.  The biggest piece of advice I always say is:

‘Listen to your skin!!’

If it doesn’t feel right, it probably isn’t.  These should not cause any damage to your skin, if used correctly for YOUR skin!

Much love.

Louisa Ashforth Signature