What if we told you that a cleaner, brighter, more glowing complexion doesn’t start with expensive serums or fancy face tools — but with just a minute of your time and the right cleanser? Welcome to the world of the 60-second rule cleanser, the skincare technique beauty lovers swear by for healthier, clearer skin.
If you’ve heard the phrase “60-second rule” floating around TikTok, Reddit, or your favorite beauty blog, you might be wondering: What exactly is it? And what kind of cleanser works best for it?
Well, let’s break it all down — from the origin of the trend to the types of cleansers best suited for it and why this method might just be the missing link in your skincare ritual.
What Is the 60-Second Rule Cleanser?
At its core, the 60-second rule cleanser refers to the practice of cleansing your face for a full 60 seconds using your fingertips and a gentle, skin-friendly facial cleanser. The goal? To give your cleanser enough time to:
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Break down dirt, oil, makeup, sunscreen, and bacteria
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Dislodge debris from pores
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Stimulate blood circulation
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Prep your skin to better absorb follow-up products
Think of it not just as a product, but as a technique — a shift from rushing through your routine to actually engaging with your skin.
Where Did the 60-Second Rule Come From?
The rule was popularized by Nayamka Roberts-Smith, a licensed aesthetician and the voice behind the @LaBeautyologist brand. She started recommending that her clients massage their cleanser into their face for a full minute — not just 10 or 15 seconds — as a way to improve skin clarity, especially for those struggling with textured skin, acne, or uneven tone.
And guess what? The advice blew up. From skincare influencers to licensed dermatologists, everyone started giving this deceptively simple trick a try, and the feedback was overwhelmingly positive.
Why 60 Seconds? What’s So Special About It?
Most people spend about 10 to 20 seconds washing their face. That’s barely enough time for a cleanser’s ingredients to dissolve surface grime, let alone get deep into pores.
So why does 60 seconds matter?
1. Improved Product Penetration
By cleansing more thoroughly, you clear away obstructions on your skin’s surface, allowing your serums, toners, and moisturizers to soak in and work more effectively.
2. Proper Emulsification of Oils and Sunscreen
Modern skincare often involves layers: SPF, primer, foundation, pollution buildup, and oil. A quick cleanse can leave residue behind, while 60 seconds ensures a deeper clean.
3. Pore Decongestion
Massaging your cleanser into trouble areas — especially around the nose, chin, and forehead — helps loosen up blackheads and prevent clogged pores.
4. Gentle Exfoliation and Circulation Boost
The circular motions of your fingertips help stimulate blood flow, leading to that fresh-faced, post-facial glow.
5. Mindful Skin Ritual
Taking time with your skin shifts cleansing from a chore to a moment of self-care. You connect with your skin and become more aware of its needs.
What Cleanser Should You Use for the 60-Second Rule?
Now here’s the big question: What is the best cleanser for the 60-second rule?
Not all cleansers are created equal. Some are too harsh for prolonged use, while others are too weak to be effective. The best cleansers for the 60-second rule should be:
✅ Gentle and pH-balanced
✅ Non-stripping (no sulfates or drying alcohols)
✅ Free from harsh physical exfoliants
✅ Appropriate for your skin type
✅ Effective at removing makeup and grime
Let’s break it down by skin type:
Best 60-Second Rule Cleansers by Skin Type
1. For Dry or Dehydrated Skin
Look for hydrating, creamy, or gel cleansers with ceramides, glycerin, or hyaluronic acid.
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CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser
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Vanicream Gentle Facial Cleanser
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First Aid Beauty Pure Skin Face Cleanser
These nourish the skin while cleansing, helping maintain a healthy moisture barrier during your 60-second ritual.
2. For Oily or Acne-Prone Skin
Go for gentle foaming or gel cleansers with salicylic acid, niacinamide, or tea tree oil to help fight blemishes.
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La Roche-Posay Effaclar Gel Cleanser
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COSRX Low pH Good Morning Gel Cleanser
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Youth to the People Superfood Cleanser
They target oil and breakouts without being too drying — perfect for those prone to clogged pores.
3. For Combination Skin
You’ll want a balanced cleanser that hydrates dry areas while controlling excess oil in the T-zone.
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Krave Beauty Matcha Hemp Hydrating Cleanser
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Neutrogena Hydro Boost Gel Cleanser
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The Inkey List Oat Cleansing Balm
These strike a happy medium between calming and cleansing.
4. For Sensitive Skin
Focus on fragrance-free, ultra-gentle options that won’t irritate during the massage process.
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Avène Extremely Gentle Cleanser Lotion
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Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser
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Paula’s Choice Calm Nourishing Cleanser
Pair with light pressure to avoid aggravating redness or inflammation.
How to Do the 60-Second Rule Cleanser Technique
It’s not just about having the right product — technique matters, too.
Step-by-Step Guide:
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Wash your hands first. Always start with clean hands to avoid transferring bacteria to your face.
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Wet your face with lukewarm water. Hot water can strip your skin, and cold water can tighten pores prematurely.
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Apply a small amount of your chosen cleanser. About a dime-sized should do.
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Massage gently for 60 full seconds.
Use your fingertips, not your palms. Focus on:-
Hairline
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Jawline
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Sides of the nose
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Under the chin
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Around the mouth
Use gentle, upward circular motions.
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Rinse thoroughly. Again, use lukewarm water and make sure no residue remains.
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Pat dry with a clean towel. Avoid rubbing or tugging at your skin.
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Follow with your regular routine. Toner, serum, moisturizer, SPF — all of it will absorb better post-cleanse.
What Results Can You Expect?
After consistently practicing the 60-second rule with the right cleanser, most users report:
✨ Smoother texture
✨ Fewer breakouts
✨ Less congestion in pores
✨ Brighter, more even-toned skin
✨ Improved product effectiveness
✨ A natural, healthy glow
It might take a few days or weeks, depending on your skin condition, but once it clicks, you’ll see and feel the difference.
Common Questions About 60-Second Rule Cleansers
Q: Can I use a foaming cleanser for 60 seconds?
Yes, but be careful. If your cleanser is too foamy or contains sulfates, it could dry out your skin. Stick to sulfate-free options and watch for signs of irritation.
Q: Should I double cleanse with this method?
If you wear makeup or SPF daily, yes! Start with an oil-based cleanser, then follow up with your water-based cleanser using the 60-second rule.
Q: Can I exfoliate while doing the 60-second rule?
Avoid physical exfoliants (like scrubs) during the 60-second massage. They can cause microtears. Chemical exfoliants should be used after cleansing.
Q: Will this work for mature skin?
Absolutely! In fact, the gentle stimulation can help promote blood flow and elasticity.
Q: Is the 60-second rule safe for rosacea or eczema-prone skin?
It depends. Use a mild cleanser and light touch. If you feel burning, tightness, or redness, stop and consult a dermatologist.
Mistakes to Avoid
🚫 Rushing through the massage — 30 seconds won’t cut it. Set a timer if needed.
🚫 Using harsh cleansers — Stripping the skin can damage the moisture barrier.
🚫 Not rinsing properly — Residue can cause buildup and irritation.
🚫 Over-cleansing — Once or twice a day is enough. Don’t overdo it.
🚫 Skipping it when tired — Consistency is key to seeing results.
What Makes a Cleanser “60-Second Rule Friendly”?
To recap, look for cleansers that are:
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Hydrating or gentle gel/cream textures
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Free from alcohol, sulfates, parabens, and added fragrance
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Formulated for your skin type
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Dermatologist-tested and non-comedogenic
And remember: you don’t need a $60 cleanser. Even affordable drugstore options can work wonders when paired with this method.
The 60-second rule cleanser is more than just a product. It’s a way to reconnect with your skin. It slows you down in the best way, helping you tune in to your complexion’s needs and treat your face with the care it deserves.
Instead of spending hundreds on miracle products that promise overnight changes, why not commit to one minute, every day, of real attention?
Whether you’re battling breakouts, dullness, or dryness, this method offers a gentle reset for your skincare routine. And it all starts with the right cleanser and a full 60 seconds.
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