[Researcher's Column] The Importance of Exfoliation for ID Photos and Interview Hair & Makeup: The Foundation of Cleanliness and Trust!

【Exfoliation = Standard of Cleanliness | Must-Check Before ID Photos & Interviews!】

Hello, I'm Song-yi Han, a beauty & image researcher at MONKOS Studio. With 7 years of experience in hair and makeup and 10 years of experience running a photo studio, today I'd like to talk about exfoliation.

【Why is Exfoliation Important?】

Exfoliation is an important aspect that serves as a 'standard of cleanliness', regardless of gender.

In women, accumulated dead skin cells can cause makeup to cake and foundation to clump, resulting in an uneven skin texture. Since ID photos reveal the skin's texture as is, failing to exfoliate before shooting can lead to noticeable 'patchiness' or 'cracking,' no matter how good the makeup products used.

In men, if dead skin cells are not properly removed after shaving, blemishes can appear on razor burn, or the skin can become rough, giving an unclean impression. This is because the razor blade damages the thin layer of dead skin cells and the protective barrier of the skin.

Neglecting exfoliation can lead to folliculitis or dermatitis. In other words, exfoliation is an important lifestyle habit for balancing oil and moisture, not only for ID photo shoots and interviews but also for everyday life.

① Basic Cleansing Method: The Principle of Opening and Closing Pores

Cleansing is the first and most important step in skincare.

  • Start with lukewarm water (approximately 34~36 degrees Celsius): Wet your face with slightly warm water for 30 seconds to 1 minute to fully open your pores.
  • Use cleanser: Create enough foam and gently wash in a circular motion, starting with the T-zone (forehead, nose) → cheeks, chin. At this time, massage with your fingertips, and never rub hard!
  • Finish with cold water: Rinse with cold water at the end of cleansing to tighten pores. This small effort alone can make a big difference in skin texture.

✅ Tip: The total cleansing time should be about 1 minute to 1 minute 30 seconds. Cleansing for too long can damage the skin barrier.

② Cleansing After Sunscreen and Makeup: How to Choose a Cleanser for Your Skin Type

On days when you wear makeup or sunscreen, regular cleansing alone is not enough.

Double cleansing is essential.

Tips for choosing a first cleanser for each skin type:

  • Dry skin, combination skin → We recommend oil cleansers. The oily ingredients gently dissolve makeup and impurities while leaving essential oils on the skin.
  • Oily skin → We recommend cleansing lotions or cleansing balms. They lightly dissolve makeup without leaving excess oil.

Hidden function of oil cleansers: Oil-based cleansers have the function of dissolving blackheads. In particular, the nose and its surroundings are areas where pores are large and blackheads tend to accumulate, so if you neglect cleansing, dead skin cells will continue to accumulate.

After dissolving makeup with a first cleanser → Finish with a foam cleanser or gel cleanser as a second cleanse → Tighten pores with cold water!

✅ Tip: Men should also double cleanse on days when they wear sunscreen. Sunscreen residue can clog pores and cause breakouts.

③ Weekly Exfoliating Peel: Find a Method That Works for You

There are stubborn dead skin cells that are difficult to remove with regular cleansing alone. Exfoliating once a week can brighten skin tone and improve the absorption of skincare products.

Chemical Peels (AHA / BHA / PHA)

  • AHA (Glycolic Acid, Lactic Acid): Gently dissolves dead skin cells on the skin surface. Recommended for dry and normal skin.
  • BHA (Salicylic Acid): Because it is oil-soluble, it penetrates and cares for sebum in pores. Recommended for oily and acne-prone skin.
  • PHA (Gluconolactone): The molecular size is larger than AHA, so it is less irritating. Sensitive skin can also use it.

Naturally Derived Peels (Recent Trend!)

  • Mung Bean Peeling: Dissolve mung bean powder in water and use it like a pack. Provides mild exfoliation + skin soothing effect.
  • Rice Bran Pack: The fine particles of rice bran gently remove dead skin cells while providing nutrients.
  • Brown Sugar Pack: Massaging brown sugar mixed with honey provides exfoliation + moisturizing effects at the same time. These naturally derived products are very popular these days because they can solve exfoliation and nutrition packs at once.

⚠️ Caution: New products may cause skin problems, so be sure to test them on the back of your ear or inside your arm before use!

【💡 Skincare Checklist Before Taking ID Photos】

  • ✅ Finish exfoliating 2-3 days before shooting (avoid it on the day of shooting as it can make your skin sensitive).
  • ✅ Replenish moisture with a sheet mask the day before shooting
  • ✅ Light moisturizing + primer for a matte skin expression on the day of shooting
  • ✅ Men: Shave + soothing care the day before shooting, lightly tidy up on the day of shooting
  • ✅ Don't forget to take care of your lip's dead skin cells!

ID photo, job application photo, baby passport photo concerns → monkos.ai Column are posted by photographers with 20 years of experience and beauty researchers from photographers based on knowledge and experience that helps with employment.