A facial cleansing device that targets breakouts, shown on a towel.

5 Facial Cleansing Devices That Target Breakouts

Think of a facial cleansing brush as the electric toothbrush for your face. You can get by with a manual one, but the electric version does a much more thorough job with less effort. These devices aren't about aggressively scrubbing your skin. Instead, they use advanced technology—like gentle sonic vibrations—to loosen and lift impurities from deep within your pores without causing irritation. This method provides a powerful yet gentle cleansing experience that purifies your skin and helps improve circulation. For anyone struggling with acne, finding the right facial cleansing device that targets breakouts can be a true game-changer in achieving a smoother, more radiant complexion.

Key Takeaways

  • Tackle Breakouts at the Source: A cleansing device removes the deep-down dirt, oil, and makeup that clog pores and cause acne. By creating a truly clean slate, it also helps your acne treatments and serums absorb more effectively, delivering better results from your routine.
  • Match the Device to Your Skin's Needs: For sensitive or inflamed skin, choose a tool with soft, hygienic silicone bristles or gentle sonic vibrations. These options provide a thorough clean without the harsh friction that can lead to irritation and more breakouts.
  • Use Your Device Correctly to Avoid Irritation: The right technique is everything. Start by using your device just a couple of times a week, pair it with a simple, non-exfoliating cleanser, and let the tool do the work without applying pressure. Remember to clean it after every use.

What Is a Facial Cleansing Device, Anyway?

If you’ve ever wondered whether you’re really getting your face clean with just your hands and a cleanser, you’re not alone. A facial cleansing device is a tool designed to take your daily wash to the next level. Think of it as the electric toothbrush for your face—it does the hard work for you, but better. These brushes help you clean your skin more deeply than using your hands or a washcloth alone. By using gentle bristles and advanced technology, they effectively remove the stubborn dirt, oil, makeup, and dead skin cells that can lead to dullness and breakouts.

The goal isn't to scrub your skin raw, but to provide a superior, more consistent clean that you can feel immediately. When your pores are truly clean, your skin can breathe. This also helps clear the way for your other skincare products—like serums and moisturizers—to absorb better and work more effectively. It’s a simple step that can make a big difference in the overall health and appearance of your skin, leaving you with a smoother, more radiant complexion. It’s all about working smarter, not harder, to achieve that fresh-faced glow you're after.

The Tech Behind the Clean

So, how does a little brush manage to get your skin so much cleaner? Most modern facial cleansing devices rely on sonic technology. Instead of aggressively spinning or scrubbing, these tools use quick, gentle vibrations to loosen and lift impurities from deep within your pores. The Dermilogic brush, for example, uses thousands of pulsations per minute to shake dirt and oil free. This method provides a thorough deep clean that also helps improve blood flow to the skin’s surface. The result is a powerful yet gentle cleansing experience that purifies your skin without the harsh friction that can cause irritation.

Sonic vs. Rotating vs. Silicone: What's the Difference?

When you start looking for a cleansing device, you'll notice a few different types. Let's break them down. Rotating brushes have a head that spins to physically scrub and exfoliate the skin. While they provide a deep clean that can be great for oily skin, they can sometimes be too harsh for sensitive types. Vibrating (sonic) brushes, on the other hand, are often considered less damaging. They use high-frequency vibrations for a deep clean without aggressive scrubbing. Finally, you have silicone brushes, which are known for being very gentle and hygienic. Their soft, non-porous bristles are easy to clean and less likely to harbor bacteria, making them a great option for sensitive or acne-prone skin.

How Do Cleansing Devices Help Fight Breakouts?

If you’re dealing with breakouts, you know that a good cleanse is the foundation of any effective skincare routine. But sometimes, washing your face with your hands just doesn’t feel like enough. That’s where facial cleansing devices come in. Think of them as a way to supercharge your daily cleanse. By going deeper than your fingers can, these tools help tackle some of the main culprits behind acne, giving you a clearer path to healthy skin.

Clear Out Pore-Clogging Impurities

Let's be real: most breakouts start with a clogged pore. When dirt, excess oil, and old makeup settle into your skin, they create the perfect environment for pimples to form. A high-quality cleansing device is designed to stop this before it starts. The soft bristles and sonic vibrations work together to clean your skin more deeply than washing with your hands alone. The Dermilogic Advanced Cleansing Brush, for example, effectively removes the daily grime that can lead to congestion, leaving your pores clean and refreshed. It’s a simple switch that helps prevent breakouts from even beginning.

Help Your Skincare Products Absorb Better

You invest in great serums and treatments, so you want to make sure they’re actually working. When your skin is covered by a layer of dead cells or residual oil, your products can’t penetrate properly. Using a cleansing device provides a more thorough and even clean, creating the perfect canvas for the rest of your routine. With a truly clean slate, your skin is primed to absorb the active ingredients in your favorite products more effectively. This means your acne treatments, moisturizers, and serums can get to work where they’re needed most, giving you better results from the products you already love.

Gently Exfoliate for Smoother Skin

Exfoliation is key for managing acne-prone skin, but harsh scrubs can often cause more irritation. Facial cleansing brushes offer a much gentler alternative. They softly sweep away dead skin cells that can otherwise build up, trap oil, and clog pores. This consistent, gentle exfoliation not only helps prevent future breakouts but also promotes a smoother, more radiant complexion over time. Pairing your device with a targeted formula like the Dermilogic Cleanser ensures you’re clearing away impurities without stripping your skin, supporting a healthy and balanced skin barrier.

Which Cleansing Devices Work Best for Acne-Prone Skin?

When you’re dealing with breakouts, the last thing you want is a tool that makes things worse. The good news is that the right cleansing device can be a total game-changer for managing acne. The key is finding one that suits your skin’s specific needs. Some devices focus on deep-cleaning pores, while others offer therapeutic benefits to stop breakouts before they start. Let's look at the most common types and see how they stack up for acne-prone skin.

Sonic Cleansing Brushes

If you have sensitive skin that’s also prone to breakouts, a sonic cleansing brush might be your new best friend. Instead of spinning or scrubbing, these devices use tiny, rapid vibrations to gently loosen dirt, oil, and makeup from your pores. This sonic technology provides a thorough yet gentle deep clean, which is perfect for skin that’s already feeling a bit irritated. The vibrations also help improve blood flow, giving your skin a healthy glow without the harsh friction of a traditional rotating brush. It’s an effective way to get a superior clean while still being kind to your skin.

Silicone Cleansing Devices

For those whose skin gets red and angry at the mere thought of exfoliation, silicone cleansing devices are a fantastic option. The bristles are incredibly soft and flexible, so they cleanse without stripping or irritating your skin. One of the biggest advantages of silicone is that it’s non-porous, meaning it’s resistant to bacteria buildup—a huge plus when you’re trying to keep acne at bay. These devices are super easy to clean and dry quickly, making them a more hygienic option for daily use. They offer a gentle cleanse that effectively removes impurities without causing inflammation.

Manual Rotating Brushes

If your skin tends to be on the oily or combination side and you feel like you need a bit more power to get a deep clean, a manual rotating brush could be a good fit. As the name suggests, the brush head spins to physically scrub and exfoliate the skin’s surface. This action is great for sloughing away dead skin cells and clearing out stubborn, clogged pores that can lead to breakouts. Because they provide a more intense exfoliation, it’s important to use them with a light touch and not overdo it, especially if you have active inflammation.

Devices with Blue Light Therapy

This is where skincare tech gets really interesting. Some advanced cleansing devices come equipped with blue light therapy, a feature specifically designed to target acne. This technology uses a particular wavelength of blue light that penetrates your skin to kill acne-causing bacteria right at the source. It’s a non-invasive way to reduce existing breakouts and prevent new ones from forming. If you’re looking for a device that does more than just cleanse, finding one that incorporates acne light therapy can give you an extra edge in your fight for clear skin.

What to Look For in an Acne-Fighting Cleansing Device

Ready to find your perfect cleansing companion? With so many options out there, it helps to know what features truly matter for breakout-prone skin. The goal is to find a device that cleans deeply without causing irritation, which can make acne worse. Think of it like finding the right running shoes—the right fit and features will support you, while the wrong ones can hold you back. Let's break down the key things to look for to ensure you're getting a tool that will help, not harm, your skin.

Bristle Type and Softness

The part of the device that actually touches your face is arguably the most important. For acne-prone skin, which is often sensitive and inflamed, you want to avoid harsh, abrasive bristles at all costs. This is where silicone shines. Silicone bristles are non-porous, making them resistant to bacteria buildup—a huge plus when you’re fighting breakouts. They’re also incredibly gentle, providing a deep clean without stripping or irritating your skin. This combination of hygiene and softness makes silicone a top recommendation for sensitive skin and a safe bet for daily use.

Adjustable Speed and Intensity

Your skin isn't the same every day. Some days it might feel resilient, while other days it might be sensitive, especially if you have an active breakout. That’s why a device with adjustable settings is a game-changer. Look for a cleansing brush that offers multiple speed or vibration intensity levels. This allows you to customize your cleanse based on your skin’s needs at that moment. You can use a gentler setting on inflamed areas and a more powerful one on your T-zone where pores tend to get more congested. This flexibility ensures you get an effective clean every time without pushing your skin past its comfort zone.

Helpful Timers and Smart Features

It’s surprisingly easy to overdo it with a cleansing device, and over-cleansing can lead to irritation and even more breakouts. To prevent this, look for a device with a built-in timer. Many smart brushes will pulse or briefly pause to let you know when it’s time to move to a different area of your face, ensuring each section gets just the right amount of attention. This simple feature takes the guesswork out of your routine and helps protect your skin barrier. Other helpful features might include reminders to replace your brush head, which is key for keeping things hygienic and effective over time.

Waterproof and Travel-Friendly Design

The best skincare tool is the one you’ll actually use consistently. A waterproof design makes it easy to incorporate cleansing into your daily shower routine, saving you time and effort. If you travel often, a compact, lightweight, and rechargeable device is a must. You don’t want your skincare progress to halt just because you’re on the go. Look for a brush that holds its charge for a long time and comes with a travel case. These practical features ensure your device fits seamlessly into your lifestyle, making it easier than ever to maintain clear skin no matter where you are.

The Best Facial Cleansing Devices for Acne

Finding the right tool to help manage breakouts can feel overwhelming, but the right cleansing device can make a huge difference. These tools go beyond what your hands can do, offering a deeper clean to clear out pores and help your other skincare products work more effectively. We've rounded up some of the best options on the market that are specifically designed to help you get clearer, healthier skin without causing irritation. From our own advanced brush to other popular choices, here’s a look at what makes each one a great contender in the fight against acne.

Dermilogic Advanced Cleansing Brush

We designed our Advanced Cleansing Brush with one goal in mind: to make achieving clear, healthy skin simple and effective. It’s engineered to provide a deep yet gentle clean, reaching into pores to remove the dirt, oil, and makeup that can lead to breakouts. The soft bristles are perfect for sensitive, acne-prone skin, ensuring you get a thorough cleanse without the harsh scrubbing that can cause irritation. Paired with our specially formulated cleanser, this brush helps create the perfect foundation for the rest of your skincare routine, allowing your acne treatments to absorb better and work more efficiently. It’s the straightforward, powerful tool you need to take control of your skin.

FOREO LUNA™ 4

The FOREO LUNA™ 4 is a popular choice, and for good reason. Instead of traditional bristles, it uses soft, medical-grade silicone touchpoints that are ultra-hygienic—resisting bacteria buildup much better than nylon brushes. This is a huge plus for acne-prone skin. The device uses T-Sonic™ pulsations to shake loose impurities from your pores without being abrasive. It’s also highly customizable, with different cleansing modes and intensity levels you can adjust through an app. This allows you to tailor your cleansing experience specifically to your skin’s needs, whether you’re dealing with a sensitive flare-up or need a deeper clean on an oily T-zone.

PMD Clean

If you have sensitive skin that’s also prone to breakouts, the PMD Clean is another excellent silicone option. This smart facial cleansing device uses over 7,000 vibrations per minute to break down dirt and oil deep within your pores. It features four different modes, so you can choose between a gentle or a more intense cleanse depending on how your skin is feeling that day. The silicone is naturally antibacterial and hypoallergenic, making it a safe and clean choice. Plus, you never have to worry about replacing brush heads. Its ergonomic design is easy to hold, and the simple interface makes it a breeze to incorporate into your daily routine.

Michael Todd Beauty Soniclear Elite

The Soniclear Elite stands out because of its patented antimicrobial brush heads. The bristles are treated with antimicrobial protection to guard against stain and odor-causing bacteria, which means your brush stays cleaner for longer. It uses sonic technology to oscillate at high speeds, effectively cleansing the skin and buffing away dead skin cells that can clog pores. With multiple speed settings, it’s versatile enough for both face and body, and it’s gentle enough for all skin types, including those struggling with acne. The built-in timer also guides you through a one-minute cleansing cycle, ensuring you spend the right amount of time on each area of your face.

Other Great Options for Acne-Prone Skin

Beyond brushes, some devices use light to target acne. These tools often use LED light therapy, which is a gentle, non-invasive way to treat breakouts. Devices like the LightStim for Acne use blue light to kill acne-causing bacteria on the skin’s surface and red light to reduce inflammation and promote healing. The Foreo ESPADA is another handheld device that combines blue light with T-Sonic™ pulsations to target individual pimples. These light therapy tools can be a great addition to your routine, especially for treating stubborn spots or preventing future breakouts without physically touching or scrubbing your skin.

Choose the Right Device for Your Skin Type

Not all cleansing devices are created equal, and the one your best friend loves might not be the right fit for you. The key to getting amazing results—and avoiding irritation—is to choose a tool that works with your specific skin type. Whether your skin is sensitive and reactive, oily and congested, or mature and prone to the occasional breakout, there’s a device out there designed to meet its needs. Understanding your skin is the first step. Once you know what you're working with, you can find a cleansing brush that will help you achieve your goals, from clearing up acne to revealing a smoother, more radiant complexion. Let’s break down the best options for each skin type.

For Sensitive, Acne-Prone Skin

If your skin is sensitive or easily irritated, you need to be extra gentle. Look for a cleansing device with soft, silicone bristles, as they are less likely to cause redness or inflammation. When you first introduce the tool into your routine, start slowly. Use it just once or twice a week with a mild, hydrating cleanser to see how your skin reacts. For those with very sensitive conditions like rosacea or active, inflamed acne, it might be best to skip mechanical brushes altogether, as they can sometimes make irritation worse. When in doubt, a quick chat with your dermatologist can help you decide if a cleansing brush is right for you.

For Oily and Combination Skin

Oily and combination skin types often struggle with clogged pores and excess shine, which can lead to breakouts. A rotating cleansing brush can be a fantastic tool for managing this. The spinning motion provides a deep, exfoliating clean that effectively scrubs away the dirt, oil, and dead skin cells that can get trapped in your pores. This thorough cleansing helps keep your skin clear and can reduce the frequency of acne flare-ups. By consistently removing this buildup, you’re creating a cleaner canvas and helping to balance out oil production over time, leaving your skin feeling fresh and less congested.

For Mature Skin with Occasional Breakouts

As our skin matures, it can become more delicate, but that doesn't always mean breakouts are a thing of the past. If you're dealing with both fine lines and the occasional pimple, a sonic cleansing brush is your best bet. These devices use high-frequency vibrations to gently dislodge dirt and oil from deep within your pores without being too abrasive. This sonic technology also has a lovely side effect: it helps promote blood flow, which can give your skin a healthy, vibrant glow. It’s the perfect combination of a deep, effective clean and the gentle touch that mature skin requires.

How to Use Your Cleansing Device Correctly

Getting a new skincare tool is exciting, but using it the right way is what truly delivers those amazing results. A cleansing device can be a game-changer for your skin, especially when it comes to breakouts, but the magic is all in the technique. Using it correctly ensures you get a deep, effective clean without causing irritation. Think of it as a gentle massage that lifts away dirt, oil, and makeup residue, leaving your skin prepped and ready for your other products. Let’s walk through exactly how to make your cleansing device a seamless—and effective—part of your routine.

A Step-by-Step Guide

Ready for the cleanest skin of your life? It only takes about a minute. Here’s how to get the most out of every session with your cleansing brush.

  1. Start Fresh: If you’re wearing makeup, especially heavy foundation or eye makeup, remove it first with a makeup remover or oil cleanser. This lets your device focus on cleaning your skin, not just the products on top of it.
  2. Dampen Everything: Wet your face and the brush head with lukewarm water.
  3. Apply Cleanser: Squeeze a small, pea-sized amount of your favorite gentle cleanser either directly onto your skin or onto the brush head.
  4. Get Cleansing: Turn the device on and gently glide it across your face in small, circular motions. Let the brush do the work—there’s no need to press hard. Spend about 15-20 seconds on each area: your forehead, nose and chin, and each cheek.
  5. Rinse and Dry: After about a minute, rinse your face completely and gently pat it dry with a soft, clean towel.

How Often Should You Use It?

More isn’t always better, especially when it comes to exfoliation. It’s best to introduce your cleansing device to your skin slowly. Start by using it just one to two times a week to see how your skin reacts. If your skin feels great and looks clear, you can gradually increase the frequency.

Those with oily or more resilient, acne-prone skin might find they can use it three or four times a week without issue. However, if your skin is on the sensitive or dry side, you’ll want to stick to a schedule of once or twice a week to avoid any potential irritation. Pay attention to your skin—if you notice any redness, dryness, or sensitivity, it’s a sign to scale back.

Find the Right Cleanser to Pair It With

The cleanser you use with your device is just as important as the device itself. Since the brush provides physical exfoliation, you need a formula that’s gentle and supportive, not harsh. Always choose a gentle, low-foam, or non-foaming cleanser to avoid stripping your skin’s natural moisture barrier.

This is really important: don’t use a physical scrub or a strong chemical exfoliant (like a cleanser with high concentrations of glycolic or salicylic acid) at the same time as your cleansing brush. Combining them is too much for your skin and can lead to serious irritation. Using a simple, gentle cleanser allows the device to work its magic without overwhelming your skin.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

A facial cleansing device can be a game-changer, but a few common slip-ups can stand between you and clear skin. Here are the key mistakes to avoid so you can get the best possible results from your new tool.

Don't Over-Cleanse or Irritate Your Skin

When you have a breakout, it’s tempting to scrub aggressively, but this can strip your skin’s natural oils and lead to more irritation. Over-cleansing can damage your skin barrier, making breakouts worse. Be patient and gentle. If you’re using a medicated cleanser, let it sit on your skin for a minute before rinsing to give the active ingredients time to work. Remember, consistency is more effective than intensity when it comes to clearing your skin.

Avoid Using the Wrong Products or Technique

Your device is only half the equation; the cleanser you use with it matters just as much. Avoid harsh, stripping formulas and opt for a gentle, low-foam cleanser that won’t disrupt your skin’s balance. You only need a pea-sized amount. Always use lukewarm water, as hot water can cause dryness and irritation. Pairing your device with the right skincare products is essential for a comfortable and effective cleanse without unwanted redness.

Remember to Clean Your Device

This is a crucial step that’s easy to forget. Your brush head collects oil, dead skin cells, and makeup residue with every use. If left uncleaned, it becomes a breeding ground for bacteria that you’ll just spread back onto your face, potentially causing more breakouts. Get into the habit of rinsing your device thoroughly after each use and deep cleaning it weekly according to the instructions. A clean tool is fundamental to achieving clean skin.

Don't Press Too Hard

Let the tool do the work for you. It might feel satisfying to apply pressure, but your cleansing device is designed to be effective with just a light touch. The sonic pulses or rotations are what cleanse your pores, not the force you apply. Pressing too hard can cause irritation and damage your skin barrier, leading to more sensitivity and inflammation. Simply glide the brush gently across your face and let the technology handle the rest for healthier, clearer skin.

Keep Your Device Working Like New

You’ve invested in a great tool for your skin, so it only makes sense to take care of it. Proper maintenance isn't just about making your device last longer; it's essential for ensuring it does its job effectively without introducing new bacteria to your face. A dirty brush head can counteract all your hard work by spreading oil and germs, which can lead to more breakouts. The good news is that keeping your device in top shape is incredibly simple. A few easy habits will protect your investment and help you get the clear, healthy skin you’re working toward.

Your Daily Cleaning Routine

Think of this as the final step of your cleansing routine. After you’ve finished washing your face, your brush needs a quick rinse, too. Simply hold the brush head under warm running water to wash away any residual cleanser and grime from your skin. Gently pat the bristles with a clean towel to remove excess water, and then let the device air dry in an open space. Avoid storing it in a damp, enclosed area like a medicine cabinet or shower caddy, as this can encourage bacteria to grow. This simple, two-minute habit makes a huge difference in keeping your device clean and ready for its next use.

How to Deep Clean and Sanitize

Once a week, it’s a good idea to give your brush head a more thorough cleaning. This helps sanitize the bristles and remove any stubborn buildup that a daily rinse might miss. You can create a simple cleaning solution by mixing warm water with a bit of gentle, antibacterial soap. Let the brush head soak for about 10 to 15 minutes, then rinse it completely to wash away any soap residue. Just like with your daily routine, always let it air dry thoroughly before using it again. This weekly deep clean ensures your device remains a hygienic part of your skincare regimen.

Know When to Replace the Brush Head

Even with perfect cleaning habits, brush heads don’t last forever. Over time, the bristles can fray and wear down, making them less effective at cleansing and potentially too harsh on your skin. Worn bristles can also become a breeding ground for bacteria that are difficult to wash away. Most experts recommend replacing your brush head every three to four months, or as soon as you notice the bristles are looking worn or misshapen. Using a fresh brush head is crucial for getting the best results and being kind to your skin. Finding the right replacement heads for your device is a simple step that ensures you continue to get a perfect clean every time.

Is a Cleansing Device Right for Your Skincare Routine?

Deciding to add a new tool to your skincare lineup is a big step. While cleansing devices can be a game-changer for many, it’s smart to think about your skin’s specific needs before you commit. The goal is always healthier, happier skin, and that means finding what works for you. A cleansing brush can offer a much deeper clean than just using your hands, but it’s all about using it correctly and listening to your skin. Let’s figure out if a cleansing device is the right move for your routine and how to introduce one without causing irritation.

When to Add a Device to Your Routine

If you feel like your current cleansing method isn't quite cutting it, a device might be the perfect addition. Think of it as an upgrade to your daily wash. These brushes are designed to clean your skin more deeply than using your hands or a washcloth, effectively removing more dirt, oil, and makeup. By clearing away dead skin cells, they help reveal a brighter, smoother complexion. If you’re looking to improve your skin’s overall clarity and texture, or you want to make sure you’re getting every last bit of grime off at the end of the day, incorporating a cleansing device like the Dermilogic Advanced Cleansing Brush could be your next best step.

Using It with Other Acne Treatments

This is a big one. If you’re already using potent acne treatments, especially prescriptions from a dermatologist, it’s so important to be careful. Before adding a cleansing brush to the mix, have a chat with your derm. They can give you the best advice for your specific situation. A good rule of thumb is to avoid using your device on the same day you use other exfoliants, whether they’re physical scrubs or chemical ones like AHAs or BHAs. Using them together can be too much for your skin, leading to redness and irritation. The key is to complement your existing treatments, not compete with them.

Signs It's Working (and When to Stop)

When you first start using a cleansing device, ease into it. Begin by using it just once or twice a week to see how your skin responds. If your skin is on the oily side, you might be able to work up to more frequent use. For sensitive types, stick to a soft, silicone brush and a lower frequency. You’ll know it’s working if your skin feels smoother, looks brighter, and feels deeply clean after each use. However, pay close attention to signs of irritation. If you notice persistent redness, dryness, or new breakouts that don't seem like typical skin purging, it’s time to take a break. Your skin will tell you what it needs.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is a cleansing device really that much better than just using my hands? Think of it this way: you can scrub your floors with a sponge, but a power polisher will always give you a deeper, more even clean. Your hands are great, but they can’t create thousands of tiny pulsations per minute to shake dirt and oil loose from deep within your pores. A cleansing device provides a more thorough and consistent clean than you can achieve manually, which helps remove the impurities that lead to breakouts and dullness.

Will a cleansing brush make me break out more when I first start using it? It's possible to experience what’s known as "skin purging." Because the device cleans so effectively, it can speed up your skin's natural turnover process, bringing underlying congestion to the surface faster than usual. These breakouts typically appear in your usual problem areas and clear up more quickly than normal pimples. However, if you notice breakouts in new places or experience significant redness and irritation, it might be a sign that you're overdoing it, so try scaling back your use.

How long will it take to see a difference in my skin? While your skin will feel smoother and cleaner immediately after the first use, more significant changes take time and consistency. Most people start to notice a visible improvement in their skin's texture and clarity, including fewer breakouts, within a few weeks of regular use. The key is to stick with it and allow your skin time to adjust and respond to the deeper level of cleansing.

Can I use my cleansing device on active, painful breakouts? It’s best to be very gentle with inflamed or cystic acne. While the device can help prevent future breakouts by keeping pores clean, you should avoid gliding it directly over any painful, open, or irritated spots. Doing so could cause more inflammation. Instead, gently cleanse the areas around the active breakout and let those spots heal on their own.

Do I still need to exfoliate if I'm using a cleansing brush? A cleansing device provides a form of gentle, daily physical exfoliation by sweeping away dead skin cells. For many people, this is enough to keep their skin smooth and clear. If you love your chemical exfoliants (like AHA or BHA toners), you can still use them, but it's best not to use them on the same day as your device to avoid over-exfoliating. Listen to your skin—if it feels sensitive, give it a break.

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