The first step to safe skin cleansing is to forget about exfoliation.  It seems like just about every skin cleanser on the market is based some kind of a scrub.  If you want to look great for the rest of your life, you'll start making efforts to protect your skin's health. Scrubbing away skin cells is not the right way for proper skin cleaning. 

The first step is to look for gentle cleansers. More on this in a moment.
 
2. Clean Out the Bathroom

Look at the ingredients in the products that you are currently using and get rid of the ones that contain parabens, triclosan, artificial preservatives and added fragrances.  Safe skin cleansing products do not contain these common allergens and irritants.
 
Triclosan is an antibacterial agent.
Parabens are artificial preservatives. 

Both of these have been linked to cancer.  While the risk may be minor, the major problem is that we are exposed to so many different carcinogens on a daily basis.  By avoiding them whenever possible, we may prolong our lives.

You should also throw out any skin cleanser that contains:
* oxybenzone or
* benzophenone.  They have also been linked to cancer.

 So, step two is to throw out the cancer-causing chemicals and look for better alternatives.

3. Stick With a Natural Skin Cleanser

For effective and safe skin cleansing, the ingredients to look for include:
-manuka honey,
-tea tree oil,
-orange oil and
-witch hazel.  Witch hazel is particularly beneficial for use after shaving.  It has natural antiseptic activity. 

Both manuka honey and tea tree oil have natural antibacterial and antioxidant activity, but they are safe and gentle.  Orange oil is a stronger skin cleanser.  If your skin is delicate, stick with the others. 

4. Filter Your Shower Water

Chlorine is very drying and it aggravates every skin condition that there is.  It strips our natural oils, dries out our hair and irritates our eyes and respiratory system.  Chlorination causes the formation of cancer causing byproducts known as THMs.  They can be absorbed through the skin and inhaled when showering, as they become airborne.

So, the fourth step to safe skin cleansing</a is to buy and install an effective showerhead filter.  Look for one that reduces both chlorine and THMs. See CleanWaterPure.com for more details.

5. Use a Deep Active Skin Cleanser Twice a Month

Dirt and grime do get stuck in the pores, but you don't need harsh scrubs or exfoliating beads to remove it.  Masks that contain special clay extracts will "pull" the dirt and grime right out of your pores.  The clay absorbs excessive oils, as well, leaving your face feeling fresh and looking more youthful.

There are new masks that don't dry to a hard shell that is difficult to remove.  By adding macadamia and Shea butter to the clay, you get deep and safe skin cleansing, without having to scrub.  The best masks also include manuka honey, because of its antibacterial and antioxidant activity.  So, there you have the five steps to healthier cleaner, better looking skin.