We are all on the lookout for that one miracle product that will transform our skin. That beauty tonic that will banish dry patches, eliminate grease, minimise pores and leave you with a glowing, radiant complexion. Facial cleansing brushes may not offer a miracle, but they are an essential tool in the fight for gorgeous skin. They can elevate your skincare routine, improving the efficacy of your favourite products and providing gentle exfoliation that leaves skin soft, smooth and lovely.
Despite being around for a little while there is still some mystery around facial cleansing brushes. Yes, you know your favourite YouTube stars love them, but how often should you use them, which one should you buy, and which products should you use them with? We answer these questions and more in our essential guide to facial cleansing brushes below.
A facial cleansing brush is a soft-bristled, round brush that is used to massage and cleanse the face. It is often used in conjunction with a gentle cleansing product. Brushes can be manual or powered. Powered facial cleansing brushes, rotate or vibrate, providing a deeper massage and clean. Some cleansing brushes even have advanced functions. The Panasonic EH-XC10 3-in-1 Micro-Foaming Facial Cleansing Brush first applies gentle heat to the skin allowing for more effective cleansing and also includes a dedicated pore attachment.
This is the million-dollar question and one that many beauty influencers have very different views on. Our advice is to take a gentle approach. Remember that facial brushing is a form of exfoliation and should be used sparingly to prevent overly sensitised or dry skin. For most people, brushing two to three times a week is about right and provides beautiful results. Dark skin can often respond well to slightly more intense exfoliation and you should carefully experiment with your brushing regime to find the right fit for you.
There is no one perfect product match for facial cleansing brushes. You should use a liquid cleansing product that fits well with your natural skin type, be that oily, dry, combination or even sensitive. Use the best quality cleanser you can afford, as this will lead to better and more lasting results. You should avoid any exfoliating products, as your facial cleansing brush will provide all the exfoliation you need!
You can combine your facial cleansing brush with other skincare technology to get an even more effective cleanse. We love to steam before brushing to open the pores and allow for cleansing products to get better penetration. This can also help to dislodge stubborn blackheads. We recommend the Panasonic EH-XS01 Nano-Ionic Facial Steamer for gentle and effective steaming before brushing.
A facial cleansing brush has a range of skin benefits that can lead to healthier, happier skin. These include:
EXFOLIATION
A facial cleansing brush removes the top layer of dead skin cells leading to smooth glowing skin.
IMPROVED CIRCULATION
Brushing helps to improve blood flow to skin cells, helping them regenerate more effectively, this leads to more youthful skin.
FIRMING
The massaging effect of a facial cleansing brush stimulates firmer, plumper skin and can help to decrease fine lines.
Start by making sure your brush is clean and dry. Then add your favourite cleansing product to the brush, following the manufacturer’s instructions. Now, slowly massage the skin all over your face in regular circular motions – making sure you pay attention to problem areas like the T-zone. You should avoid the delicate under-eye area but extend the treatment over your neck and décolletage for best results. Massage your skin for around 3 minutes, then rinse, gently pat dry and apply a high-quality moisturiser.
In the wrong hands, any type of exfoliation can cause skin damage, and for some skin conditions, a facial cleansing brush may not be the right match. If you suffer from facial Eczema, Psoriasis or Rosacea you should check with your dermatologist before using a facial brush. Otherwise, make sure you brush around two to three times a week and don’t apply too much pressure to the skin. You may notice you have a slight break out when you first change your skincare routine, and this is quite normal. However, if you experience redness, tightness or pain you could be brushing too often or applying too much pressure.
Cleaning your facial cleansing brush is crucial to keeping it working effectively and stopping build-ups of product and harmful bacteria in the bristles of the brush. Give your brush a gentle clean with soap and water once a week to keep it fresh and make sure your skin stays beautiful. You should also replace the brush head between every three to six months to ensure bristles don’t become weak and damaged.