10 Ways You're Using Your Clarisonic Cleansing Device Totally Wrong

POPSUGAR Photography | Benjamin Stone
POPSUGAR Photography | Benjamin Stone
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Dermatologists, beauty editors, and celebrities alike swear by the Clarisonic cleansing brush ($199). We had a chance to talk to Clarisonic cofounder Dr. Robb Akridge and discovered something unsettling — we've been missing some crucial steps in our daily Clarisonic skin-care routine. Sure, we know how to clean it, but these tips will help you get the most out of your favorite skin-care device.

More Means More
POPSUGAR Photography / Benjamin Stone

More Means More

  1. You're not using enough face wash. The first time you use your brush Dr. Robb recommends filling the entire inner circle with cleanser (about a quarter-sized amount). Then, you can adjust accordingly for your skin type.
  2. You're not using enough water. Just like your toothbrush, you need to thoroughly soak your Clarisonic in water to get the ultimate pore-cleaning action.
  3. You're sharing your brush head with your partner. Even though the Clarisonic doesn't harbor bacteria, you would be swapping genetic material in an entirely new way. Just get them their own brush head. If the deed is already done, soak your brush head in rubbing alcohol for a few seconds.
Customizable Clean
POPSUGAR Photography / Benjamin Stone

Customizable Clean

  1. You don't fine-tune your brush head. As an extra step you can remove the outer ring of the Clarisonic brush head and use the inner circle in that tight crevice around the nose. Just beware of extra splashing!
  2. You don't clean it with shampoo. Dr. Robb recommends cleansing the Clarisonic after every use with a bit of shampoo to keep the bristles clear of residue and oil.
  3. You stopped using it because of a breakout. Transient acne is a potential side effect for first-time Clarisonic users. The stimulation of the skin can cause bacteria to rise to the surface in the form of a pimple. The solution: Scale back your use to once a day, but keep with it. Things should clear up after about two weeks of continual use.
Deep Cleansing
POPSUGAR Photography / Benjamin Stone

Deep Cleansing

  1. You don't clean under the brush head. Once a month remove your brush head and cleanse the well below with soap and water to keep everything squeaky clean.
  2. You use your Clarisonic with an exfoliating cleanser. Double the exfoliation is not a good thing in this case. Avoid any cleansers with microbeads or rough particles.
  3. You don't replace your brushes every three months. Dr. Robb says it isn't the bacteria you need to get rid of, it's more about the efficiency of the machine. Over time the bristles begin to clump together, so a replacement is required!
  4. You don't restart the cycle for your neck and décolletage. Go ahead and push that button again to give your neck and collarbone a good scrub.