I break out after using a facial cleansing brush or device. Should I discontinue using it?

Question

Gayatri Vyas · Answer

Hey Swathi, breakouts can occur as a result of the tool not being maintained properly. It is recommend to cleanse the brush with soap and water or alcohol to avoid acne-causing build-up. 

If you breakout in spots or pimples when you first start using a facial brush, don't worry &ndash; this is natural. Skin can also start to flake as the dead skin cells are removed &ndash; this doesn't mean its dry, only that the dead skin is effectively coming away. If your skin does react with a breakout or pimples, stop using the cleansing brush for a few days. Then as your skin settles down, slowly introduce it back in to your cleansing regime over the following week. Everyone's skin is different, so it's really a case of finding what works for your complexion. 

Using a cleansing brush once a day, as part of your evening routine will achieve the best results. By using it too often  the skin barrier can be broken down through removing the natural sebum in the skin. What skin does in response to this is increase production of natural oils and sebum which can leave skin oiler than before.

Q: I break out after using a facial cleansing brush or device. Should I discontinue using it?