Dr. Pimple Popper's No-Nonsense Guide to Washing Your Face
How to Wash Your Face Correctly: Dr. Pimple Popper’s Step-by-Step Routine
Published:
2 minute read
If your cleanser is on and off in five seconds, you’re missing the magic. Dr. Pimple Popper (dermatologist Sandra Lee, MD) swears that a great cleanse is the foundation of clearer, healthier skin, and it’s way more about how you wash than how fancy your sink looks. Here’s her step-by-step routine you can start tonight.
1) Start smart: use an exfoliating cleanser
Breakouts begin in pores, so pick a cleanser that can get inside them. A BHA like salicylic acid dissolves excess oil, dead skin cells, and debris. It’s gentle enough for daily use when you build up slowly, and powerful enough to keep pores clear.
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2) Use lukewarm water (not hot)
Piping hot water feels spa-like, but it can strip your skin barrier and lead to irritation and rebound oil. Lukewarm keeps things comfy while protecting your moisture balance.
3) Use a nickel-sized amount, then emulsify
A little goes a long way. Dispense a nickel-sized amount into clean hands and rub palms together to emulsify. This spreads actives evenly for consistent results (and saves product).
4) Massage—don’t scrub
Use the pads of your fingers and light, circular motions. No washcloths, no face brushes, no aggressive scrubbing. You’re cleansing skin, not polishing a countertop.
5) Give it time to work (20–30 seconds)
This is the game-changer. Let the cleanser sit for at least 20–30 seconds before rinsing so the salicylic acid can actually penetrate pores and do its job.
6) Rinse thoroughly
Residue loves to hide along the hairline, jaw, and around the nose. Rinse until water runs clear and your skin feels fresh, not tight.
7) Pat (don’t rub) dry then seal in hydration
Gently pat dry and leave skin slightly damp. Immediately apply a non-comedogenic moisturizer to lock in hydration without clogging pores.
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8) Be consistent: twice daily, then give it 2–3 weeks
Cleanse morning and night. Skin cycles take time. Expect visible improvements in 2–3 weeks with steady use.
Bonus Tips from Dr. Pimple Popper
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Start slow if you’re sensitive. Use salicylic acid once daily or every other day, then increase as tolerated.
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Double cleanse when needed. Heavy sunscreen or makeup? Remove with micellar water or an oil cleanser first so your BHA can reach skin, not residue.
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Hands off. Avoid picking—clean pores stay clearer longer.
Clearer, smoother, more balanced skin doesn’t require a 12-step routine—just great habits done right. Wash with intention, give your actives time to work, and stick with it. Your pores (and future selfies) will thank you.
Here's a 3-minute AM Routine to Prevent Aging Skin
Dr. Lee's Last Word
“If your cleanser is on and off in five seconds, you’re rinsing away results. Let salicylic acid sit for at least 20-30 seconds. I like to tell people to hum their favorite morning tune or brush your teeth while the cleanser sits on your face before rinsing."
