As we are well familiar with the fact that in skincare and haircare, timing is everything. This fact is well explained by Dr. Priyanka Reddy (MBBS, MD DVL, Fellowship in Cosmetology from the USA, a dermatologist, in her Instagram (@drpriyankareddy) reel in which she shared science-backed recommendations on how long to keep products on your skin and hair for optimal results. Understanding these product application durations can transform your daily beauty routine from ineffective to impactful, whether you're using face wash, anti-dandruff shampoo, chemical exfoliants, or hair masks correct contact time is an important key factor to keep in mind.
Contact time refers to how long a product stays on your skin or hair before being rinsed or absorbed. This duration determines how effectively the active ingredients can work.
If a product is rinsed off too early, active ingredients may not penetrate enough to deliver benefits.
If left on for too long, it can irritate the skin or scalp, especially for exfoliants or medicated products.
Dr. Reddy explains that finding the “sweet spot” of contact time helps maintain balance and maximizing benefits while minimizing the side effects of the product used.
Regular Face Wash: 20-25 Seconds
A gentle cleanse for 20 to 25 seconds can effectively removes surface impurities without stripping your skin's natural oils. This brief duration maintains your skin's balance and prevents dryness and irritation.
Exfoliating/Salicylic Acid Face Wash: 50 Seconds
For products containing salicylic acid which are known for oil regulation Dr. Reddy recommends at least 50 seconds of contact time. This allows the active ingredient to work effectively while minimizing potential irritation.
Micellar Water/Makeup Removing Balms: 1 Minute
Give makeup removing balms a full minute on your skin. This duration ensures makeup particles properly dissolve, which can prevent clogged pores and breakouts.
Face Masks: 30 Minutes
Face masks should be left on for 30 minutes to allow the treatment ingredients to work effectively.
Chemical Exfoliants: 2-10 Minutes (or as directed)
Chemical exfoliant products should stay on for 2 to 10 minutes, or follow the package instructions. Some formulations are designed as leave-ons, so always check the product guidelines.
Moisturizers and Active Ingredients: Leave-On
Moisturizers and active ingredients like niacinamide and hyaluronic acid are formulated to remain on your skin. These leave-on products provide continuous hydration and treatment throughout the day or night.
Regular Shampoo: 1 Minute
One minute is sufficient to cleanse your scalp and hair of dirt and excess oils without stripping natural moisture.
Anti-Dandruff Shampoo: 10-15 Minutes
This is where timing becomes critical. Dr. Reddy emphasizes that the biggest mistake people make with anti-dandruff shampoos is insufficient contact time with the scalp. Without adequate contact time, the active ingredients cannot work effectively, which is why many people don't see results. Leave anti-dandruff shampoo on for at least 10 to 15 minutes to allow the formula to combat dandruff-causing factors.
Regular Conditioner: 3-5 Minutes
Allow conditioner to sit for 3 to 5 minutes. This timeframe ensures proper hydration and smoothing of the hair cuticle without weighing hair down.
Deep Conditioning Hair Masks: 30 Minutes
For intensive nourishment, leave deep conditioning masks on for 30 minutes. This extended duration allows ingredients to penetrate deeply, restoring health and shine.
Hair Oil: 45-60 Minutes Before Washing
Apply hair oil 45 to 60 minutes before shampooing. This pre-wash treatment nourishes the scalp and hair, reducing frizz and enhancing shine.
The most common mistakes in skincare and haircare routines often involve timing this can include, either rushing through applications or leaving products on too long. Dr. Reddy's recommendations provide a practical framework:
Cleansers work quickly: 20-50 seconds is sufficient
Treatment products need time: Anti-dandruff shampoos and masks require 10-30 minutes
Some products are meant to stay: Moisturizers and actives should remain on skin
Contact time matters: Especially for targeted treatments like anti-dandruff formulas
By following this guide of 'Contact time needed for these products on your skin & hair', you can maximize the effectiveness of your skincare and haircare products, ensuring each step of your routine delivers its intended benefits.
Based on expert recommendations from Dr. Priyanka Reddy, Dermatologist, on her Instagram reel.
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