How to Cleanse Your Face Properly: The Complete Step-by-Step Guide

Cleansing is the foundation of every effective skincare routine. Done correctly, it supports your skin barrier, prevents congestion, and maximises the results of every product you apply afterward. Done incorrectly, it can lead to dryness, irritation, and imbalance.

Below, we answer the most common cleansing questions and explain how to cleanse properly for healthy, resilient skin.

What Is a Cleanser and What Does a Cleanser Do?

A cleanser is a skincare product formulated to remove:

• Dirt and environmental pollutants
• Excess oil, also known as sebum
• Sunscreen
• Makeup
• Sweat and debris

Throughout the day, and even overnight, these impurities accumulate on the skin. Without proper cleansing, pores can become congested, the skin barrier can become stressed, and active ingredients won’t penetrate effectively.

What a Cleanser Should Do

A well-formulated cleanser should:

• Remove impurities effectively
• Respect the skin barrier
• Maintain hydration
• Leave skin balanced, not tight or stripped

If your skin feels squeaky, dry, or uncomfortable after cleansing, the formula or technique may not be right for you.

How to Cleanse Properly

Cleansing isn’t just about washing your face. Technique matters.

Step 1: Start With Clean Hands

Always wash your hands first to avoid transferring bacteria to your face.

Step 2: Use Lukewarm Water

Hot water can compromise your skin barrier. Lukewarm water helps loosen debris without stripping natural oils.

Step 3: Use the Right Amount

A pea-sized to coin-sized amount is usually sufficient. Using too much does not mean a better cleanse. Decree products are dosed for you, so you know two pumps of our cleansers is exactly the amount you need.

Step 4: Massage Gently for 30–60 Seconds

This is where many people rush.

• Use your fingertips
• Work in gentle circular motions
• Focus on areas prone to congestion, such as the T-zone, nose, and chin
• Avoid aggressive scrubbing

Cleansing for a full 30–60 seconds ensures proper breakdown of oil, sunscreen, and buildup.

Step 5: Rinse Thoroughly

Incomplete rinsing can leave residue behind, which may cause irritation or clogged pores. A gentle, non-abrasive cloth should be used here, like the Decree Scrupulous Cleanse Cloth, which gently removes product and buffs the skin.

Step 6: Pat, Don’t Rub, Dry

Use a clean, soft towel and gently pat your skin dry.

Step 7: Follow Immediately With Skincare

Apply toner, serum, or moisturiser while skin is slightly damp to support hydration.

Should You Double Cleanse?

Double cleansing involves using two cleansers in sequence. However, we say the only time you should double cleanse is if you have worn makeup or sunscreen throughout the day. If you have, use a gentle micellar water to remove your makeup or sunscreen, and follow that up with the Decree Deep Cleanse as your cleansing step.

When Double Cleansing Is Beneficial

You may benefit from double cleansing if you:

• Wear sunscreen daily
• Use long-wear or waterproof makeup
• Have oily or congestion-prone skin
• Live in a polluted urban environment

When You Don’t Need to Double Cleanse

You don’t need to double cleanse if:

• You don’t wear makeup or heavy SPF
• Your skin is dry or sensitive
• You cleanse gently but thoroughly once at night

Over-cleansing can compromise the barrier. The goal is clean skin, not stripped skin.

Best Practices for Cleansing Correctly

Cleanse Twice Daily, Usually

Morning and evening is sufficient for most skin types. This ensures your skin is optimised for your AM and PM skincare routine.

Avoid Harsh Tools

Harsh washcloths, cleansing brushes, and scrubs can be overused and may be abrasive to your skin, upsetting and even damaging your skin barrier. We recommend a soft, clean washcloth or the Decree Scrupulous Cleanse Cloth, which is designed specifically for this.

Don’t Rush

A rushed 10 second cleanse is rarely effective.

Respect Your Skin Barrier

Signs you may be over-cleansing include:

• Tightness
• Flaking
• Increased sensitivity
• Oiliness rebound

Adjust With the Seasons

Moisturise cleverly. Skin may need richer formulas in winter and lighter ones in warmer months, so we recommend having both to use depending on how your skin feels each day. The Peptide Emollient Veil Duo Set is your perfect skin companion here.

The Bottom Line

Cleansing is not about removing everything from your skin. It’s about removing what doesn’t belong there while preserving what does.

When done properly, cleansing:

• Supports the skin barrier
• Prevents congestion
• Enhances product absorption
• Promotes long-term skin health

Ready to refine your cleansing routine? Discover our curated range of cleansers.