Do you need to deep clean your skin regularly?

This view is wrong

The idea that skin needs to be deep cleansed regularly to stay healthy is actually a common misunderstanding, and there is no such thing as "deep cleansing" in medicine.

The skin has powerful self-repair and cleansing functions, and does not require frequent deep cleansing to maintain a healthy state. The skin completes a cycle of about 28 days through a natural metabolic process, including the division of basal cells and the shedding of aged keratin, thereby maintaining a healthy barrier function.

Daily cleaning (washing face with a towel or facial cleanser) is enough to remove most external pollutants and excess oil on the skin surface. Excessive use of deep cleansing products, especially those containing irritating ingredients, may damage the skin's barrier function, causing dryness, sensitivity, and even inflammation. On the contrary, over-reliance on these deep cleansing products may make the skin more susceptible to infection.

From another perspective, skin health not only depends on proper cleaning, but is also closely related to the overall lifestyle. For example, sun protection, a balanced diet, adequate sleep, moderate exercise and avoiding environmental pollution are also important factors in maintaining skin health.

In short, proper cleaning is good for skin health, but frequent deep cleaning is not necessary. Skin care should be based on personal skin type and needs, choosing appropriate skin care products and cleaning frequency.

Author: Tang Jiaoqing, MD, attending physician of dermatology

Review | Feng Jun, deputy chief physician of the Dermatology Department of Sinopharm Tongmei General Hospital