The Importance of Skin Cleansing

Throughout the day, our skin is exposed to various external factors such as pollution, dust, makeup, and natural sebum production. Additionally, applying sunscreen is crucial to protect against skin damage caused by ultraviolet radiation, which can lead to premature aging and increase the risk of skin cancer. However, it's equally important to thoroughly cleanse the skin at the end of the day to remove sunscreen residue and other products. Failing to do so can lead to clogged pores, the formation of comedones, and the development of skin issues such as acne and irritation.

Proper cleansing not only prevents these problems but also enhances the effectiveness of skincare products. Clean skin is better able to absorb the active ingredients in cosmetics and treatments, making them more effective. This is particularly important at night when the skin is in an optimal state for absorbing nutrients due to the increased permeability of the skin barrier.

During the day, the skin primarily serves as a protective barrier, but at night, it shifts its focus to regeneration and repair. This transition is driven by several physiological processes that occur while we sleep:

1. Cell Renewal: At night, skin cell mitosis accelerates, promoting cell renewal. This process helps replace dead and damaged cells with new, healthy ones, resulting in a fresher, more rejuvenated appearance. Increased cell turnover improves skin texture and tone, reducing dullness and signs of fatigue.
2. DNA Repair: The skin's exposure to stressors such as UV radiation and pollution during the day can cause DNA damage. During sleep, DNA repair mechanisms become more active, helping to correct this damage and prevent mutations that could lead to premature aging and other skin conditions. This repair process is vital for maintaining the skin’s long-term health and function.
3. Collagen Production: Collagen is an essential protein for maintaining skin firmness and elasticity. At night, the body increases collagen production, helping to reduce wrinkles and improve the skin's overall structure. Enhanced collagen synthesis supports the skin’s strength and resilience, countering the effects of aging and environmental damage.
4. Increased Blood Circulation: Blood flow to the skin increases during sleep, delivering oxygen and essential nutrients to skin cells more efficiently. This increased circulation also helps to remove toxins and metabolic waste, promoting healthier skin. Improved blood flow supports the skin’s natural repair processes and contributes to a more radiant complexion.
5. Hydration Balance: The skin tends to lose water during the night through a process called transepidermal water loss (TEWL). Applying moisturizing products before bed helps counteract this loss, ensuring the skin remains adequately hydrated and preventing dryness and flaking. Maintaining proper hydration is crucial for preserving the skin’s barrier function and preventing sensitivity and irritation.

At Zurko, we have developed a new study called Clean Skin, designed to verify the efficacy of cleansing products in removing sunscreen.

The analysis is performed under UV light, allowing us to observe the product's reflectance, which is invisible under normal light. This facilitates the evaluation of the difference between skin with product residues and completely clean skin.

Depending on each formulation, the appearance of the skin under UV light will vary. We can observe reflectance of the product in different colors such as white, violet, orange, etc. Sunscreens typically contain an oily external phase, making their removal formulations complicated.

Therefore, we aim to verify that this reflectance disappears from our skin. It is also crucial to meticulously control the amount and duration of application of the different products to be tested.

This study would be especially useful for companies offering sunscreens in their catalog as well as those marketing cleansing products. Nowadays, there are a multitude of cleansing methods, increasingly incorporating innovative, sensory, and effective product textures and types, making the skin cleansing process a fundamental step of our skincare routine.

The results obtained from our Clean Skin study include high-resolution images and objective statistical data to support the efficacy. This does not only allow for the tangible difference in cleanliness to be seen but also provides scientific and visual credibility, offering solid support for claims.

Cleansing the skin before starting a nighttime skincare routine is essential to remove impurities accumulated throughout the day and to prepare the skin for its regenerative phase. By understanding the physiological processes that occur at night, we can tailor our skincare routines to support the skin's health and appearance. This scientific insight highlights the importance of proper cleansing, and the use of products designed to work in harmony with the skin's natural rhythms, ultimately promoting healthier, more radiant, and youthful-looking skin.

Effective skin cleansing, combined with the consistent use of sunscreens and targeted nighttime skincare products, forms the foundation of a well-rounded skincare regimen. This holistic approach not only protects the skin from daily environmental stressors but also promotes long-term skin health and vitality. As we continue to explore innovative ways to evaluate and enhance the efficacy of skincare products, we can empower individuals to make informed choices that benefit their skin’s overall well-being.

The CosmeticLAB of Mérieux NutriSciences, a pivotal branch of the global Mérieux NutriSciences Corporation, excels in the cosmetic sector with a commitment to ensuring product efficacy, safety and quality. Leveraging state-of-the-art technology and stringent testing methodologies, we offer comprehensive services, including chemical, microbiological, and efficacy evaluations. Our expertise also extends to sensory and consumer studies, ensuring that cosmetics meet both industry standards and end users expectations. As pioneers in cosmetic testing, we are dedicated to innovation, sustainability, and client-focused solutions. This commitment is encapsulated in “Our science, your beauty”, reflecting our dedication to enhancing beauty through scientific excellence.