How to Wash Off Sunscreen

Removing Sunscreen: Tips for Clean and Healthy Skin

6 min read

OCT 16, 2023 - by FELIX TAJANKO
LIFE STYLE
How to Wash Off Sunscreen

Removing Sunscreen: Tips for Clean and Healthy Skin

6 min read

OCT 16, 2023 - by FELIX TAJANKO
LIFE STYLE
Sunscreen is one of the most important aspects of any skin care routine. There are several reasons why you should wear sunscreen, especially for protection against harmful UV rays. However, proper removal of sunscreen is also important to ensure skin stays clean and healthy. In this article, we will explore how to effectively remove sunscreen from your skin, and address how OneSkin can help you achieve clean and healthy skin.
Sunscreen is one of the most important aspects of any skin care routine. There are several reasons why you should wear sunscreen, especially for protection against harmful UV rays. However, proper removal of sunscreen is also important to ensure skin stays clean and healthy. In this article, we will explore how to effectively remove sunscreen from your skin, and address how OneSkin can help you achieve clean and healthy skin.
01

How to Remove Sunscreen from Skin

Properly removing sunscreen from your skin is essential to prevent clogged pores and breakouts; Not to mention overdue exposure to potentially damaging molecules found in chemical sunscreens. Here are some steps you can follow to effectively clean your skin.
  1. Use a Makeup Remover or Micellar Water: If you've applied makeup on top of your sun cream, start by using a makeup remover or Micellar water to dissolve any remaining makeup.
  2. Rinse with Lukewarm Water: You can then rinse your face with lukewarm water to remove the initial layer of makeup and sunscreen as well as any dust or grime.
  3. Apply a Cleanser: Apply a gentle cleanser suitable for your skin type – be sure to use a more gentle or creamy cleanser if you have naturally dry skin. Massage the cleaner into your skin using gentle, circular motions. An electronic facial cleansing brush can be especially well suited to this task. Make sure to pay attention to areas where you applied sun cream, like your face and neck.
  4. Rinse Thoroughly: Rinse your face again with lukewarm water to ensure that all sunscreen and cleanser residues are removed.
  5. Pat Dry: Gently pat your skin dry with a clean, soft towel. Avoid rubbing, as it can irritate the skin.1
  6. Follow up with a nourishing skin care routine: After removing sunscreen, proceed with your regular skin care routine, such as applying
  7. topical skin care products like a toner, serum, and/or peptide face moisturizer or peptide body lotion
    .
    01

    How to Remove Sunscreen from Skin

    Properly removing sunscreen from your skin is essential to prevent clogged pores and breakouts; Not to mention overdue exposure to potentially damaging molecules found in chemical sunscreens. Here are some steps you can follow to effectively clean your skin.
    1. Use a Makeup Remover or Micellar Water: If you've applied makeup on top of your sun cream, start by using a makeup remover or Micellar water to dissolve any remaining makeup.
    2. Rinse with Lukewarm Water: You can then rinse your face with lukewarm water to remove the initial layer of makeup and sunscreen as well as any dust or grime.
    3. Apply a Cleanser: Apply a gentle cleanser suitable for your skin type – be sure to use a more gentle or creamy cleanser if you have naturally dry skin. Massage the cleaner into your skin using gentle, circular motions. An electronic facial cleansing brush can be especially well suited to this task. Make sure to pay attention to areas where you applied sun cream, like your face and neck.
    4. Rinse Thoroughly: Rinse your face again with lukewarm water to ensure that all sunscreen and cleanser residues are removed.
    5. Pat Dry: Gently pat your skin dry with a clean, soft towel. Avoid rubbing, as it can irritate the skin.1
    6. Follow up with a nourishing skin care routine: After removing sunscreen, proceed with your regular skin care routine, such as applying
    7. topical skin care products like a toner, serum, and/or peptide face moisturizer or peptide body lotion
      .
      02

      How Cleansers Remove Sunscreen

      Cleansers are essential for removing sunscreen and other impurities from the skin. They work by breaking down the oils, dirt, and debris on your skin, allowing them to be easily rinsed away. Many cleansers contain surfactants, which are molecules that attract and bind to both oil and water, allowing sunscreen and other residues to be washed away.2
      02

      How Cleansers Remove Sunscreen

      Cleansers are essential for removing sunscreen and other impurities from the skin. They work by breaking down the oils, dirt, and debris on your skin, allowing them to be easily rinsed away. Many cleansers contain surfactants, which are molecules that attract and bind to both oil and water, allowing sunscreen and other residues to be washed away.2
      03

      Different Types of Cleansers

      There are several different types of cleansers available, each catering to different skin types and concerns – so it’s important to research and discover the one best suited for cleaning your skin.
      1. Foaming Cleanser: Known for its rich lather, they are suitable for normal to oily skin types and effectively remove excess oil and impurities. A foaming cleanser often contains sulfates, which can be harsh on sensitive or dry skin. Be sure to take a look at the ingredients to find the right cleanser for your skin type.
      2. Cream Cleanser: Cream cleansers are usually hydrating and ideal for dry or sensitive skin. They often contain moisturizing ingredients, such as
      3. hyaluronic acid
        , to prevent over-drying.
      4. Gel Cleanser:
      5. Gel cleansers
        are lightweight and suitable for combination or oily skin. These cleansers are effective at removing oil, and can provide a refreshing sensation. Like foam cleansers, gel cleansers can be slightly too aggressive for sensitive and dry skin types.
      6. Oil Cleanser: An oil cleanser is especially excellent at penetrating and breaking down waterproof sunscreen or makeup. The oil-based cleanser is suitable for all skin types and can be used as part of a double cleansing routine.
      7. 03

        Different Types of Cleansers

        There are several different types of cleansers available, each catering to different skin types and concerns – so it’s important to research and discover the one best suited for cleaning your skin.
        1. Foaming Cleanser: Known for its rich lather, they are suitable for normal to oily skin types and effectively remove excess oil and impurities. A foaming cleanser often contains sulfates, which can be harsh on sensitive or dry skin. Be sure to take a look at the ingredients to find the right cleanser for your skin type.
        2. Cream Cleanser: Cream cleansers are usually hydrating and ideal for dry or sensitive skin. They often contain moisturizing ingredients, such as
        3. hyaluronic acid
          , to prevent over-drying.
        4. Gel Cleanser:
        5. Gel cleansers
          are lightweight and suitable for combination or oily skin. These cleansers are effective at removing oil, and can provide a refreshing sensation. Like foam cleansers, gel cleansers can be slightly too aggressive for sensitive and dry skin types.
        6. Oil Cleanser: An oil cleanser is especially excellent at penetrating and breaking down waterproof sunscreen or makeup. The oil-based cleanser is suitable for all skin types and can be used as part of a double cleansing routine.
        7. 04

          Do You Need to Double Cleanse?

          Double cleansing involves using two different cleansers in sequence to ensure the thorough removal of sunscreen, makeup, and impurities. It's particularly beneficial if you wear either heavy or waterproof sunscreen and makeup. The double cleanse technique starts with an oil-based cleanser to dissolve excess sunscreen, makeup, and excess oil on your skin. This is then followed with a water-based cleanser to remove any remaining residues and impurities. This step is critical to ensure your skin is clean while also being properly moisturized.
          04

          Do You Need to Double Cleanse?

          Double cleansing involves using two different cleansers in sequence to ensure the thorough removal of sunscreen, makeup, and impurities. It's particularly beneficial if you wear either heavy or waterproof sunscreen and makeup. The double cleanse technique starts with an oil-based cleanser to dissolve excess sunscreen, makeup, and excess oil on your skin. This is then followed with a water-based cleanser to remove any remaining residues and impurities. This step is critical to ensure your skin is clean while also being properly moisturized.
          05

          How OneSkin’s Products Aid With Sun Exposure

          OneSkin's PREP Daily Cleanser is an excellent option for effectively removing sunscreen without compromising your skin's natural barrier. PREP is specifically formulated to thoroughly remove impurities, including sunscreen and light makeup, from your skin. PREP also contains natural enzymes that provide gentle exfoliation, promoting the maintenance of healthy skin without compromising the skin's natural balance. OneSkin’s PREP Daily Cleanser has been rated 91% and Top Allergen Free by SkinSAFE. This recognition underscores its suitability for those with sensitive skin, serving as a gentle cleanser that upholds skin health.After effectively removing sunscreen, it's essential to follow up with after-sun care. In lab studies on human skin, the OS-01 peptide has been shown to reduce the effects of UV-induced aging, including UV-induced senescence
          and collagen degradation,3 helping your skin bounce back after sun exposure -- promoting its recovery and long-term health.4
          Proper removal of sunscreen is crucial for maintaining clean and healthy skin. By using the right cleanser and following the recommended steps, you can ensure that sunscreen, makeup, and other impurities are effectively removed, allowing your skin to breathe and stay radiant.
          05

          How OneSkin’s Products Aid With Sun Exposure

          OneSkin's PREP Daily Cleanser is an excellent option for effectively removing sunscreen without compromising your skin's natural barrier. PREP is specifically formulated to thoroughly remove impurities, including sunscreen and light makeup, from your skin. PREP also contains natural enzymes that provide gentle exfoliation, promoting the maintenance of healthy skin without compromising the skin's natural balance. OneSkin’s PREP Daily Cleanser has been rated 91% and Top Allergen Free by SkinSAFE. This recognition underscores its suitability for those with sensitive skin, serving as a gentle cleanser that upholds skin health.After effectively removing sunscreen, it's essential to follow up with after-sun care. In lab studies on human skin, the OS-01 peptide has been shown to reduce the effects of UV-induced aging, including UV-induced senescence
          and collagen degradation,3 helping your skin bounce back after sun exposure -- promoting its recovery and long-term health.4
          Proper removal of sunscreen is crucial for maintaining clean and healthy skin. By using the right cleanser and following the recommended steps, you can ensure that sunscreen, makeup, and other impurities are effectively removed, allowing your skin to breathe and stay radiant.
          Meet us at the corner of Skin Longevity and Science. Shop now!
          Key Takeaways
          • The surfactants in cleansers are important for proper cleaning – cleaning with only water cannot remove all sunscreen.
          • There are notable differences between various types of cleansers and it is important to select the best one for your skin type.
          • Double cleansing can be an effective method of removing sunscreen by removing oil-based and waterproof products first, then cleansing deeper impurities second.
          • OneSkin’s PREP Daily Cleanser is a great option for removing sunscreen and light makeup while maintaining skin’s natural balance.
          Key Takeaways
          • The surfactants in cleansers are important for proper cleaning – cleaning with only water cannot remove all sunscreen.
          • There are notable differences between various types of cleansers and it is important to select the best one for your skin type.
          • Double cleansing can be an effective method of removing sunscreen by removing oil-based and waterproof products first, then cleansing deeper impurities second.
          • OneSkin’s PREP Daily Cleanser is a great option for removing sunscreen and light makeup while maintaining skin’s natural balance.
          By Felix Tajanko: Felix is studying Bioengineering at the University of California - San Diego and is passionate about scientific writing as well as the research of menopausal endocrinology and microhemodynamics.
          By Felix Tajanko: Felix is studying Bioengineering at the University of California - San Diego and is passionate about scientific writing as well as the research of menopausal endocrinology and microhemodynamics.
          References
          1. Zonari, A., et al. Senotherapeutic peptide treatment reduces biological age and senescence burden in human skin models. Npj Aging, 9(1), 1-15. 2023.
          References
          1. Zonari, A., et al. Senotherapeutic peptide treatment reduces biological age and senescence burden in human skin models. Npj Aging, 9(1), 1-15. 2023.

          Reviewed by Alessandra Zonari, PhD, Chief Scientific Officer (CSO) and Co-Founder of OneSkin

          Alessandra earned her Master’s degree in stem cell biology, and her PhD in skin regeneration and tissue engineering at the Federal University of Minas Gerais in Brazil in collaboration with the 3B’s Research Group in Portugal. Alessandra did a second post-doctoral at the University of Coimbra in Portugal. She is a co-inventor of three patents and has published 20 peer-reviewed papers in scientific journals.

          Reviewed by Alessandra Zonari, PhD, Chief Scientific Officer (CSO) and Co-Founder of OneSkin

          Alessandra earned her Master’s degree in stem cell biology, and her PhD in skin regeneration and tissue engineering at the Federal University of Minas Gerais in Brazil in collaboration with the 3B’s Research Group in Portugal. Alessandra did a second post-doctoral at the University of Coimbra in Portugal. She is a co-inventor of three patents and has published 20 peer-reviewed papers in scientific journals.

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