Healthy Skin Basics: Cleansing, Moisturising, Dryness, UV Care, Bathing & Diet

When you want to keep your skin looking healthy, it can be tempting to apply more toner, add extra serums and creams, or try the latest skincare trends.

However, maintaining healthy skin is not simply about adding more and more products to your routine.

Avoiding over-cleansing, moisturising according to your skin’s condition, protecting your skin from UV exposure, and maintaining everyday habits such as adequate sleep and a balanced diet are all important.

Following these basic habits consistently and without overdoing them can play an important role in everyday skincare.

For example, during summer, sweat and sebum can make the face feel oily or sticky, which may give the impression that the skin already has enough moisture and oil.

However, strong sunlight and spending long periods in air-conditioned environments can also leave the skin feeling dry or tight.

Likewise, stopping all moisturising simply because your skin feels oily is not necessarily the answer. On the other hand, layering many different products just because “moisturising is important” is not always better either.

The key is to pay attention to the condition of your skin and adjust your skincare accordingly.

In this guide, we take a comprehensive look at the basics of skin moisture and sebum, summer oiliness and dryness, cleansing and makeup removal, moisturising, UV protection, bathing, sleep, diet and other everyday habits that can help support healthy-looking skin.

Start with the basics of healthy skin

When you hear the term “beautiful skin”, you may imagine perfectly smooth skin without visible dark spots or pores.

In reality, skin condition varies from person to person depending on factors such as age, individual characteristics, season and living environment.

Rather than aiming for “perfect skin”, this guide focuses on keeping the skin clean and maintaining a healthy condition while minimising unnecessary dryness and irritation.

The stratum corneum: the outermost layer of the skin

The skin is broadly made up of the epidermis, dermis and the subcutaneous tissue beneath them.

The part most directly involved in everyday skincare is the stratum corneum, the outermost layer of the epidermis.

The stratum corneum helps prevent excessive water loss from the body while also helping protect the skin from various external factors.

This protective function is commonly referred to as the skin barrier.

If the condition of the stratum corneum is disrupted by excessive cleansing, strong friction or dryness, you may notice changes such as:

• Tightness
• Flakiness or dryness
• Increased sensitivity to irritation
• Makeup sitting differently on the skin

This is why skincare is not only about what you add to your routine. Avoiding unnecessary irritation is equally important.

Sebum also has a role in the skin

When facial shine becomes noticeable, it is easy to think of sebum as something that should be removed as thoroughly as possible.

However, sebum itself is not unnecessary.

Sebum is produced by the sebaceous glands and spreads across the surface of the skin, contributing together with sweat and other components to the skin’s surface environment.

For this reason, aggressively washing or repeatedly cleansing the skin in an attempt to remove as much sebum as possible is not necessarily suitable for everyone.

Skin moisture and sebum levels are not the same thing

One important point to remember is that the amount of sebum on the skin’s surface and the moisture level of the stratum corneum are not the same thing.

For example, some people may experience dryness on the cheeks while the forehead and nose become noticeably oily.

This is often described as combination skin, although skin condition can also change depending on the season and environment.

Instead of deciding “I have oily skin” or “I have dry skin” and following exactly the same routine throughout the year, consider adjusting your skincare according to how your skin feels at the time.

 

 

Why can skin feel oily and dry at the same time in summer?

During warmer weather, facial shine and stickiness become common concerns.

Higher temperatures can increase sweating and make sebum more noticeable, which may cause foundation to break down or the forehead and nose to appear shiny.

At the same time, some people notice that their cheeks feel dry in summer or that their face feels tight after spending time in an air-conditioned room.

This is not unusual.

Skin can still feel dry during summer

Because summer is often more humid than winter, dryness may be less noticeable.

However, everyday factors can include:

• Spending long periods in air-conditioned environments
• Exposure to strong sunlight
• Repeatedly wiping away sweat with a towel
• Washing frequently because of sweat or oiliness
• Focusing too heavily on products that leave the skin feeling very “fresh” or stripped

A combination of these factors may contribute to feelings of dryness or irritation.

In other words, summer does not automatically mean that moisturising is unnecessary.

What does “inner dry skin” mean?

In beauty and skincare information, skin that feels oily on the surface while also feeling dry is sometimes described as “inner dry skin” or “dehydrated skin”.

However, “inner dry skin” is primarily a beauty-industry term rather than a formally recognised medical diagnosis.

Rather than focusing too much on the label, pay attention to:

• Areas where sebum is noticeable
• Areas that feel dry
• Areas that feel irritated or sensitive

Observing these differences can help you adjust your routine more appropriately.

When skin looks shiny, avoid removing too much

If shine is noticeable, it can be tempting to repeatedly wipe away sebum or stop using moisturisers such as emulsions and creams altogether.

However, there is no need to remove all the sebum from the skin’s surface.

If sweat or oil becomes noticeable during the day, use a clean tissue or soft cloth and gently press rather than rub.

Managing shine is not only about removing sebum

If makeup breakdown is a concern, relying only on sebum removal may not be the best approach.

Moisturise according to your skin’s condition after cleansing, and gently blot excess sweat or oil during the day when needed.

Following these basic steps while finding skincare and makeup methods that suit your own skin is a more practical approach.

 

 

The basics of cleansing and makeup removal

Removing dirt, makeup and other residue is an important part of maintaining healthy skin.

However, removing impurities and washing the skin aggressively are not the same thing.

The basic principle of cleansing is to remove what needs to be removed while minimising unnecessary friction and irritation.

Avoid rubbing the skin while cleansing

When pores or oiliness are noticeable, it can be tempting to apply more pressure with your fingertips.

However, vigorous rubbing or excessive use of scrubs and cleansing brushes can cause unnecessary physical irritation.

When cleansing your face:

• Choose a cleanser that suits your skin
• Avoid rubbing strongly with your fingertips
• Rinse with lukewarm water
• Make sure no cleanser is left behind
• Pat gently with a towel rather than rubbing

These simple habits can help reduce unnecessary irritation.

Washing more does not necessarily mean cleaner or healthier skin

If you have been sweating or your skin feels oily, you may feel like washing your face repeatedly.

However, excessive washing can contribute to dryness or irritation.

It may be worth reviewing your cleansing routine or products if you regularly notice:

• Strong tightness after cleansing
• Stinging
• Redness
• Noticeable dryness or flaking

Morning cleansing: water only or a facial cleanser?

You may wonder whether rinsing with water or lukewarm water is enough in the morning because you have only been sleeping.

However, sweat and sebum are still present on the skin during the night, and skincare products applied the evening before may also remain on the surface.

That does not mean that everyone needs a makeup-removing cleanser first thing in the morning.

The most suitable approach may differ between someone whose skin feels relatively dry and comfortable on waking and someone who experiences noticeable sweat or oiliness.

If oiliness is a concern, using a gentle facial cleanser suited to your skin may be appropriate.

If your skin tends to feel dry or easily irritated, it may be helpful to reconsider both the cleanser you use and the way you wash your face.

What is makeup remover for?

Makeup removers and cleansing oils, balms or creams are mainly used to remove makeup and more water-resistant sunscreens.

There is generally no need to use a makeup-removing cleanser every time simply for purposes such as “cleaning the pores” or “softening the skin” when it is not otherwise required.

If you wear makeup, choose a cleansing product according to the amount and type of makeup you are wearing, as well as the sunscreen you use.

Common makeup-removing cleanser types include:

• Cleansing oils
• Cleansing balms
• Cleansing creams
• Cleansing milks
• Cleansing gels

However, it is not accurate to assume that oils are always harsh or that milk cleansers are always gentle.

Formulations and cleansing strength vary between products, so the basic goal is to choose something that removes your makeup effectively without leaving your skin feeling excessively tight or irritated afterwards.

Double cleansing should also depend on your skin and the product

Whether you need to use a facial cleanser after removing makeup depends partly on the makeup-removing product you use.

Some products are labelled as not requiring a second cleanse, while others recommend following with a facial cleanser.

Check the directions for the product you are using and avoid unnecessarily repeating cleansing steps.

The basics of moisturising: does oily skin need it too?

“Moisturising” is one of the most common terms in skincare.

Many people think of moisturising mainly as applying plenty of toner.

However, moisturising is not simply about putting water onto the skin. The aim is to help maintain moisture in the stratum corneum and reduce dryness.

More toner is not necessarily better

When skin feels dry, it is easy to assume that repeatedly layering toner will allow more and more moisture to penetrate deeply into the skin.

However, the moisturising care provided by ordinary cosmetics is generally intended for the stratum corneum, the outermost layer of the skin.

Using excessive amounts of toner or leaving cotton-pad packs on the skin for long periods does not necessarily make the skin healthier.

Follow the product directions and recommended amount, and apply it gently to the skin.

Consider moisturiser as well as toner

Applying an emulsion or cream after toner is sometimes described as “sealing in moisture”.

In practice, moisturising ingredients and oils in emulsions and creams can help retain moisture at the skin’s surface and reduce dryness.

If your skin feels tight after cleansing or areas such as the cheeks and around the mouth tend to feel dry, you may wish to include a moisturiser suited to your skin.

Oily skin does not automatically mean you should stop moisturising

If the forehead and nose become shiny, you may wonder whether it would be better to avoid emulsions or creams completely.

However, visible sebum does not necessarily mean that the skin cannot also feel dry.

If dryness is present, moisturising may still be appropriate even for oily or combination skin.

You also do not have to apply exactly the same amount to every part of the face.

For example:

• Apply moisturiser to areas such as the cheeks and around the mouth that tend to feel dry
• Use a smaller amount on areas where sebum is more noticeable
• If richer textures feel uncomfortable, consider a lighter formulation

Adjusting the amount and texture according to your own skin can be helpful.

If a cosmetic product causes redness, itching, swelling or strong irritation, stop using it. If symptoms persist, consider consulting a dermatologist or other appropriate healthcare professional.

UV exposure and bathing can also affect skin dryness

When we think about skincare, it is easy to focus on products applied directly to the skin, such as cleansers, toners, emulsions and creams. However, UV exposure and bathing habits are also worth considering.

Think about UV protection throughout the year

UV exposure is not limited to summer.

Its intensity varies depending on the season and weather, but we can be exposed to UV radiation during daylight hours throughout the year.

Long-term UV exposure is associated with changes in skin texture and pigmentation and may also contribute to feelings of dryness, so everyday sun protection is worth considering.

Basic protective measures include:

• Using shade where possible during periods of strong sunlight
• Covering the skin with hats and clothing
• Using sunglasses when appropriate
• Applying sunscreen appropriately
• Reapplying sunscreen when necessary during prolonged outdoor activity

A combination of these measures can be useful.

When choosing sunscreen, consider not only the SPF and UVA protection rating, but also where and how you will use it, how it feels on your skin and whether it is comfortable enough to use consistently.

Very hot or prolonged baths may contribute to dryness

A relaxing bath at the end of the day can be an enjoyable way to unwind.

However, for people who are concerned about dry skin, spending a long time in very hot water may place additional stress on the skin.

Hot water and prolonged bathing can remove some of the oils and other components that help support moisture at the skin’s surface, which may leave the skin feeling dry or tight afterwards.

If dryness is a concern, consider:

• Avoiding excessively hot water
• Not staying in the bath longer than necessary
• Avoiding vigorous scrubbing
• Not overusing strong body cleansers

Sweating heavily does not necessarily make the skin healthier

Beauty advice has sometimes suggested that sweating heavily during a long bath can “detox” the body or remove “waste” through perspiration.

However, sweating is primarily a physiological process used to regulate body temperature.

There is no need to treat heavy sweating itself as a method for making the skin healthier.

In fact, prolonged bathing and heavy sweating can increase the risk of dehydration or feeling light-headed.

Avoid over-washing the body as well

Just like facial skin, the skin on the body can become irritated by repeated strong rubbing.

There is no need to scrub the skin aggressively every day with a rough nylon towel or stiff body brush.

If you use body wash, use an appropriate amount and avoid unnecessary friction.

On particularly dry areas, it may also be helpful not to overuse cleansing products.

Moisturise before the skin becomes completely dry after bathing

After bathing, water on the skin’s surface gradually evaporates, and the skin may begin to feel drier over time.

Rather than rubbing with a towel, gently pat away excess water and apply moisturiser before the skin becomes completely dry.

If dryness is noticeable on the arms, legs or other areas, body lotion or cream may also be useful.

Sleep, diet, hydration and skin condition

When thinking about healthy skin, it is worth looking beyond skincare products and considering everyday lifestyle habits as well.

However, skin condition is not determined by one particular food or a specific sleeping schedule alone.

It is more helpful to think of sleep, diet and hydration as part of maintaining overall health.

Sleep is not only about going to bed at a particular time

You may have heard claims that the hours between 10 p.m. and 2 a.m. are a special “golden time” for the skin.

However, it is not appropriate to treat one particular time period as a universal rule that applies to everyone.

Instead, consider:

• Getting an appropriate amount of sleep for your needs
• Maintaining a reasonably regular sleep schedule
• Avoiding chronic sleep deprivation
• Creating an environment that makes it easier to sleep comfortably

These are generally more practical considerations.

You may personally feel that your skin looks or feels better after a good night’s sleep, but sleep alone will not resolve every concern related to dryness or skin condition.

Sleep is best viewed as one part of everyday wellbeing, alongside skincare, diet and UV protection.

Do not rely on a single “skin-friendly food”

Carrots, pumpkin, tomatoes, fruit, fish and soy products are among the many foods often described in beauty articles as being “good for the skin”.

These foods contain a variety of nutrients, including vitamins, minerals, protein, fats and fibre.

However, eating large amounts of one particular food does not automatically lead to better-looking skin.

Rather than expecting a specific beauty effect from individual foods, it is better to look at the overall balance of your diet.

A varied diet may include sources of:

• Protein
• Carbohydrates
• Fats
• Vitamins
• Minerals
• Dietary fibre

The basic approach is to obtain these nutrients from a variety of foods.

Smoothies can be convenient, but they are not a requirement for healthy skin

Smoothies made from fruit and vegetables can be a convenient addition to the diet.

Some people use them as an easy way to include fruit or vegetables, particularly on busy mornings.

However, turning ingredients into a smoothie does not automatically make them nutritionally or cosmetically superior.

Depending on the ingredients and serving size, a smoothie may also contain a relatively high amount of sugar or energy.

Eating whole foods and drinking them as smoothies can also differ in terms of fullness and eating experience.

There is no need to think of a smoothie as something you must drink every morning for healthy-looking skin. It is simply one option within an overall diet.

Be cautious with the word “detox”

Beauty information sometimes refers to “removing waste for better skin” or “detoxing the body”.

However, organs including the liver and kidneys are involved in processing and eliminating substances the body does not need.

There is no need to assume that one particular food, drink or bathing routine can suddenly remove undefined “toxins” from the body.

A balanced diet, adequate sleep and appropriate hydration remain more sensible foundations for everyday health.

Will drinking more water automatically moisturise the skin?

Hydration is essential for maintaining general health.

It is particularly important to replace fluids appropriately during hot weather, after exercise or after activities that cause significant sweating.

However, the relationship is not as simple as “the more water you drink, the more moisturised your skin becomes”.

Skin dryness can be influenced by many factors, including temperature, humidity, cleansing, bathing habits, skincare and the condition of the skin itself.

Drink according to factors such as thirst, activity level and climate, while also considering topical moisturising when the skin itself feels dry.

You do not need to search for a special “beauty drink”

Water, coffee, tea, herbal tea and fruit tea are among the many drinks people enjoy in everyday life.

It is overly simplistic to say that one particular tea will make the skin healthier or that drinking coffee is always bad for the skin.

Responses to caffeine-containing drinks also vary depending on factors such as individual tolerance, the amount consumed and the time of day.

Choose drinks that suit your lifestyle and overall diet, while avoiding excessive intake.

Avoiding too much skincare can also be important

There is no shortage of new skincare methods and beauty trends to try.

When you are concerned about your skin, it is easy to feel that you need to add another step. However, sometimes avoiding additional irritation is more important than adding more products.

There is no need to apply fruit or vegetables directly to the face

Homemade beauty methods involving cucumber, carrot, lemon or other foods placed directly on the skin have been popular at various times.

However, something that is safe to eat is not automatically suitable for use on the skin as a cosmetic.

Components in foods may cause irritation or contact reactions in some people.

For skincare, it is generally more appropriate to choose products specifically formulated for use on the skin.

Do not overuse peels or scrubs

If the skin feels rough or pores are noticeable, it can be tempting to exfoliate frequently.

However, using peels or scrubs more often than recommended can cause unnecessary irritation.

Follow the directions and recommended frequency on the product, and avoid continuing if you notice redness, stinging or dryness.

Leaving a sheet mask on longer is not necessarily better

Sheet masks are a convenient and popular skincare option.

However, there is no need to leave a mask on far beyond the recommended time because of the assumption that “longer means more ingredients will enter the skin”.

Follow the recommended usage time and adjust use according to how your skin feels.

Avoid introducing too many new products at once

If you change your toner, serum, moisturiser, facial oil and sheet mask all at the same time, it may become difficult to identify which product caused a reaction if irritation occurs.

When your skin already feels sensitive, keeping your routine simple and introducing new products gradually can make it easier to monitor how your skin responds.

Do not rely only on self-care if skin problems persist

What appears to be ordinary dryness or oiliness can sometimes be related to dermatitis or another skin condition.

Consider seeking medical advice if you experience:

• Persistent or strong redness
• Severe itching
• Swelling
• Persistent stinging or pain
• A rash that continues to spread
• Repeated reactions whenever certain cosmetics are used

In these situations, review the products you are using and consider consulting a dermatologist or other appropriate healthcare professional.

Summary: keep the basics simple and consistent

You do not need to continually add special beauty treatments in order to care for your skin.

The basic principles include:

• Cleanse gently without rubbing aggressively
• Avoid over-cleansing
• Moisturise according to your skin’s condition
• Use everyday UV protection
• Avoid excessively hot water and overly long baths
• Moisturise after bathing before the skin becomes completely dry
• Aim for adequate sleep
• Maintain a balanced diet
• Stay appropriately hydrated
• Avoid overdoing beauty and skincare treatments

Skin condition is also not exactly the same throughout the year.

Oiliness and sweating may be more noticeable in summer, while dryness may become more apparent during colder weather, so the skincare you need can change with the season.

Even within the same season, factors such as time spent outdoors, air conditioning, sleep and general wellbeing can affect how your skin feels.

Rather than deciding that “I have dry skin, so I must always do this” or “I have oily skin, so I do not need moisturiser”, pay attention to how your skin feels and adjust your routine when necessary.

Cosmetics are also not expected to transform every skin concern after a single use.

Instead of constantly thinking that you need to “apply more”, “wash more” or “do something more special”, focus on avoiding unnecessary irritation and maintaining simple skincare and healthy lifestyle habits that you can continue comfortably.