If you have been using just soap to wash your face, you might be doing your skin a disservice. I do not include facial soap bars or organic soap bars which are tailored for use on the face.
I refer to the generic soap bars you buy from the supermarket.
Soap is high in alkali content whilst the human skin has a slightly more acidic bent. Further, soap tends to dry out the skin. So, if you don’t follow up with a moisturizer, then you may end up with dry skin which means premature lines and wrinkles and possibly even acne.
Instead of using soap try using a facial wash. There’s no embarrassment in going to a department store counter these days because many department store brands have men lines – Biotherm, Clinique and Clarins come to mind. Kiehl’s also has a men’s range of products in masculine dark blue packaging. Then again, most of Kiehl’s products are packaged in quite generic looking bottles so you won’t feel embarrassed having it in your bathroom.
Or try the pharmacy. You can try brands like Mentholatum Charcoal face wash if you have oily skin or Nivea Active facial wash that cater for normal and acne prone skin. L’oreal too has a Men’s range in distinctive light blue and orange packaging and watch out for Garnier Men hitting the shelves in January 2010.
Either way you go, stay away from the soap! Your skin will thank you 
{ 3 comments… read them below or add one }
I am with you. I can’t remember the last time I used soap (if you know what I mean). I don’t even use soap on my hands as I suffer from dry hands as it is. I stick to glycerin bars and a mild facial wash.
But if u have massive acne problems, Lux soap bars can help dry them out. =)
@Erin: Thanks for the tip!