What is the 4-2-4 Rule In Skincare, Expert Shares the Benefits

Some skincare trends ask you to buy more products. Others ask you to slow down. One such current trend the 4-2-4 rule. Rather than focusing on what you use, this Korean skincare method concerns how long and how mindfully you cleanse your skin. Once praised by K-beauty enthusiasts for clear, glowing skin, this technique is now being discussed among dermatologists with a more balanced lens.

In an exclusive exclusive interaction with the editorial team of Onlymyhealth, Dr Ruben Bhasin Passi, Consultant Dermatologist, CK Birla Hospital, Gurugram, pointed out both its benefits and its limits. Read ahead to know everything she shared with us.

What is the 4-2-4 Rule?

Dr Passi explained that the 4-2-4 rule is a three-step cleansing method whose origin is from Korean. It involves:

• Massage an oil-based cleanser for about four minutes.
• Two minutes, cleanse with a water-based cleanser
• Four minutes of rinsing the face with plenty of water

According to Dr Passi, “The 4-2-4 rule is essentially a cleansing method that is targeted toward deep cleansing along with gentle skin cleansing. The idea is to be able to remove makeup, sunscreen, and impurities really well, and enhance circulation by massaging for a longer period.”

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Why did 4-2-4 Skincare Rule Become Popular?

This skincare method gained popularity due to its promise of skin that's deeply cleansed and yet hydrated, which is one of the biggest skincare struggles. Oil cleansers dissolve stubborn makeup, waterproof sunscreen, and excess sebum without having to rub harshly. Then there's the second cleanse, which takes away the residue and dirt, while the long rinse ensures that no product remains in your pores.

Dr Passi shared, “For people who wear full-coverage makeup or live in polluted urban environments, this can feel especially effective.”

Is 4-2-4 Skincare Rule Effective or Just a Fad?

The most talked-about benefit regarding the 4-2-4 rule pertains to the skin's glow. With the extended massage, it actually enhances blood flow and could momentarily brighten up one's skin to appear healthier.

"However, one needs to understand that this glow does not last and is not any long-term solution for problems like acne, pigmentation, or ageing,” she noted.

Is 4-2-4 Skincare Rule Suitable for Everyone?

This is where expert caution comes in, Dr Passi highlighted that while the method does sound gentle, the idea of spending ten minutes cleansing every day can be far too much for some skin types.

"Over-cleansing might lead to irritation in sensitive or acne-prone skin daily, causing a disturbance in the skin barrier," warned Dr Passi. Too much cleansing removes all the natural oils and can cause dryness, redness, breakouts, and even worsen any conditions like rosacea or eczema.

People with oily skin also often mistake this post-cleanse tight feeling for clean skin, whereas in reality, this could just mean barrier damage.

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What Do Experts Suggest Instead 4-2-4 Skincare Rule?

Dermatologists concur that good cleansing does not have to be time-consuming. "Cleansing for 30 to 60 seconds per step should pretty much cover most skin types," said Dr Passi. She further added that being more mindful while cleansing, using appropriate products for one's skin type, and avoiding over-cleansing matter much more than following some time-based rule.

For some skin types, the 4-2-4 method can be used from time to time, after heavy make-up days or events, but should not replace everyday cleansing unless the skin is tolerant of it.

Bottomline

The 4-2-4 skincare rule can offer deep cleansing and a temporary glow, but it does not work for all skin types. Most skin types find gentle cleansing with the right products and proper duration much safer and more workable. It is advised to always consult a dermatologist before trying any skin care trends or products.