5 Tips to Help You Use Your Clarisonic

Have a Clarisonic and want to know how to use it? You’re in luck! From how much cleanser you should use to the cleansing method, we’re sharing tips to help you use your Clarisonic!

For years, Clarisonic cleansing brushes have helped transform the way many a beauty junkie cleanses their skin. The devices—which can cleanse surface skin up to 6x better than hands alone—are, in a nutshell, innovative. But for all of Clarisonic’s hype and praise in the industry, there’s still a number of people who have yet to give sonic cleansing a whirl. Or, if they do own a Clarisonic already, they may not be sure how to use it. How much cleanser are you supposed to use? (Spoiler alert: No more than the size of a quarter.) How often can you cleanse with a Clarisonic, and what’s the best cleansing method for each device? Luckily, we’re here to answer your burning Clarisonic cleansing brush questions! Keep reading for expert tips, so you can finally start using your Clarisonic for your best results!

Q: What type of cleanser should I use?

Great question! It’s no secret that the type of cleanser you use on your skin—whether or not it’s paired with a Clarisonic—is important. Instead of picking any ol’ cleanser off the drugstore shelf, pay close attention to your skin type. Clarisonic offers a wide range of cleansers formulated to address the concerns of a number of skin types, including sensitive skin and acne-prone skin. You can also pair the brush with your personal favorite cleanser, too. Lucky for you, we share our picks of our best cleansers to use with your Clarisonic—based on your skin type—here!

Q: How often should I use a Clarisonic?

The average recommended usage, according to Clarisonic, is twice per day. But—and this is a big but to consider—this number can vary depending on your skin type. If your skin is sensitive, you can start with a lower frequency and slowly build up. For example, you can use the brush once per week, then twice per week, and so forth until reaching an optimal frequency.

Editor’s note: If you aren’t using your Clarisonic brush every day, be sure to still cleanse your skin by hand with your favorite cleansing formula up to twice per day. 

Q: What’s the proper cleansing method?

Ah, we’re glad you asked! Using your Clarisonic incorrectly can lead to less-than-ideal results. Below, we share the brand’s directions for proper use of your sonic cleansing brush.

Step One: First things first, remove any eye makeup with your favorite eye makeup remover. Your Clarisonic device should not be used on your delicate eye contour!

Step Two: Wet your face and brush. Apply your facial cleanser of choice directly to moistened skin or to a damp brush head. Remember—no more than a quarter-sized amount of cleanser should be used!

Pro tip: Clarisonic co-founder Dr. Robb Akridge recommends applying a quarter-sized amount of cleanser to the side of the brush head rather than the center. 

Step Three: Turn on your cleansing brush and select your desired speed. Follow the T-Timer prompts while gently moving the brush head in small circular motions. The brand recommends spending 20 seconds on your forehead, 20 seconds on your nose and chin, and 10 seconds per cheek. One minute is all it takes!

Pro tip: Always consult the user guide included with your device for more information on how to properly use it.

Q: How do I care for my Clarisonic device?

To keep your Clarisonic device in optimal condition, do as follows:

Handle: Did you know the Clarisonic handle is fully waterproof? Run it under warm soapy water once per week to help remove any residue buildup.

Brush Heads: After each use, rub the brush head against a towel for 5-10 seconds with the power on. You can also replace the brush head cap and let the bristles air dry between uses. Also, be sure to clean your brush head once per week. We detail how, ahead.

Pro tip: Steer clear of abrasive cleaners or chemicals to clean any part of the cleansing brush.

Q: What are some other Clarisonic cleansing brush tips?

You’ve got the basics down. Before you use your Clarisonic, keep these additional (and equally important) cleansing brush tips in mind.

1. Replace Your Brush Head: The brand recommends that users replace their brush heads every three months. To do so, grip the brush head firmly and then push and twist it counter-clockwise. Pull the brush head away from the handle. To attach your new brush head, push down and twist the head clockwise until it snaps into place.

2. Don’t Press Too Hard: Keep the brush head flush to the skin. Pressing too hard may impede the motion and reduce effectiveness.

3. Clean Your Brush Head: After every use, cleanse the brush head with a small amount of soapy water to help keep the bristles clean of oil and residue. Once a week, remove the brush head and clean the well underneath it, as well as the handle.

4. Don’t Share Your Brush Head: Your best friend or S.O. may ask to use your device, but sharing—at least in this scenario—is not caring. To avoid the risk of potentially transferring excess skin oils and residue from one person to the next, stick to your own device and brush head.

Think your Clarisonic is only useful for cleansing your skin? Think again. We share a handful of surprising beauty hacks you can try with your Clarisonic, here!