A regular, terrycloth washcloth is a useful exfoliating tool that can remove thick, layered makeup, but can be overkill for daily facial use. Using a washcloth daily is like using a facial scrub each night - which is a tad harsh, and not generally recommended.

Sometimes you really need that extra bit of scrubbiness, however. If you wear layers of makeup (like moisturizer, sunscreen, primer and foundation) or any kind of 'heavy' matte makeup, you know it's tough to get all the gunk off solely with water-based cleansers. A clean washcloth, moist with tepid water and a bit of your favorite gentle cleanser, will cut right through face paint to leave skin clean and soft.

It's important to use a fresh, clean washcloth to keep your facial skin clear and blemish-free. You don't want to clean your face with old, dirty makeup from the evening before! Keep enough washcloths in a basket by the sink so you can select a clean one each evening. Use your old one to wipe down your vanity and sink (two uses for one towel - why not?) on the way to the laundry hamper.

If you do use a washcloth to clean your face, do not use an facial scrub as well! Washcloths have a scrubby texture that more than accounts for any mechanical exfoliant action you might want. Adding a scrubbing cream to the mix is just overkill. Remember, you can't scrub blemishes or wrinkles off your face. You need to treat your face gently at all times to be rewarded with clear, young-looking skin.

If you have sensitive skin, there are softer 'washcloths' on the market that feel very smooth and have no scrubby texture. Those might be better choices for you - and in fact, I consider them better for all skin types. I use special chamois-type cloths myself (The Body Shop sells them for under ten bucks).

Other gentle cleansing options include using facial sponges, disposable facial wipes, or using cotton balls to spread cleanser across your face before splashing water on with your hands to wipe it off.

Once clean, pat your skin dry with a face towel - don't rub. Your towel is just as textured as a washcloth. :)

Amazon sells a lovely, basic skin chamois for only ten dollars - Skin Chamois, and another soft, reusable facial cloth by Dermalogica - Dermalogica The Sponge Cloth