Actress Moon Chae-won has shared her foundational rule for maintaining clear, translucent skin: putting cleansing above every other skincare step.
In a recent video on her YouTube channel, Moon Chae-won, the actress walked viewers through her usual hair and makeup routine. When the production team asked what matters most in skin maintenance, she emphasized that proper skincare begins long before applying serums or creams.
“Removing makeup is more important than putting it on,” Moon said, describing cleansing as a “step zero that comes even before step one.” She added that she carefully compares cleansers before purchasing, noting that anyone who frequently wears makeup must prioritize a thorough, non-irritating removal routine.
Removing Nighttime Makeup Without Harsh Friction
On exhausting days, washing your face can feel like a chore, but sleeping with makeup on should be strictly avoided. Nighttime cleansing should remove not only foundation but also point makeup around the eyes and lips, such as eyeliner and mascara. Because waterproof and long-wear products rarely wash away with a standard cleanser alone, using a dedicated makeup remover beforehand is essential.
However, repeatedly rubbing the skin with a cotton pad to strip off cosmetics can cause unnecessary irritation. The ideal approach is to massage the cleanser gently using your fingertips and rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water. Rather than scrubbing until the skin feels squeaky clean, the goal is thorough makeup removal while minimizing physical friction.
Balancing Double Cleansing and Over-Cleansing
On days with heavier makeup or sunscreen, double cleansing can be highly effective. This technique involves first dissolving makeup and oil-based residues with a cleansing balm, oil, or micellar water, followed by a mild water-based facial cleanser.
Still, skincare experts warn against the misconception that more washing yields healthier skin. Excessive or repeated cleansing strips away the skin’s natural oils, leading to dryness, irritation, and a compromised skin barrier. If you did not wear makeup during the day, double or triple cleansing out of habit is unnecessary and can backfire.
Cleaning Makeup Tools and Restoring Moisture
A meticulous cleansing routine can easily be undermined by dirty makeup tools. Foundation brushes, cushions, and sponges accumulate cosmetic residue, sebum, and dead skin cells over time. Applying makeup with unwashed tools transfers bacteria directly back onto clean skin. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends washing makeup brushes every 7 to 10 days and avoiding sharing them with others.
Finally, experiencing intense tightness after washing is a warning sign of dehydration rather than deep cleanliness. Applying a moisturizer immediately after cleansing helps lock in moisture and protect the skin barrier. Ultimately, mastering Moon's “step zero” requires complete makeup removal—without harsh scrubbing, over-washing, or neglecting makeup tools.
