Other than micellar water, cleansing gel, oil, or wipes, how else can we play with the first step of our skincare routine? In other words, how else can we complicate the step of cleansing? Well, the newest answer to this question is seltzer water. Lately, washing your face with seltzer water has been trendy among beauty gurus.
It may sound bizarre, but as a trend coming from Japan and Korea, it might be more practical and legit than you may think. Cleansing with water that has a similar pH to our skin (pH 5.5) is ideal, and dermatologists suggest that bubbly water is close to this pH. In contrast, normal tap water typically has a neutral pH of 7.0 (Philadelphia tap water is usually 6.8-7.8, see 2017 Philadelphia Water Report). Bubbly water can also improve blood movement and supply to the skin, making it appear healthier and more glowy.
However, this does not mean that cleansing with tap water is extremely harmful to the skin. The acidity of neutral tap water can be reduced by facial cleansers that adjust to the skin’s pH. My recommendation would be a gentle cleanser that has a closer pH to the skin such as cleansers by Cetaphil, CeraVe, La-Roche-Posay, Fresh, Mario Badescu, and CosRX. However, if you prefer to wash your face simply with water, seltzer water may be a better choice than tap water. If you have sensitive skin, try this once or twice a week at first. Then, add it to your daily routine based on how your skin feels.
There are many ways one can wash his/her face with seltzer water. People have tried to immerse their face into a bowl of carbonated water, but this can be quite costly.
If you are on a budget, try to make it your second step of cleansing. After removing makeup, soak cotton pads with seltzer water, and gently wipe the residue off of your face. This way, a bottle of carbonated water for a buck or two may last you a few weeks or even months! Sparkling mineral water sold at your local pharmacies should do it well.
The quest for the most suitable skincare routine is never-ending. It never hurts to try out new ways and trends because that is how you find the products that best fit your skin.