1 TAKE IT SLOW

Start by using an electronic cleansing brush only once or twice a week.

Within the first two weeks, sensitive skin may flare up - its way of dealing with the intensive action of unclogging pores and removing dead skin cells. But as your skin gets used to the friction from the bristles, you will be less likely to have breakouts.

2 HOW OFTEN SHOULD YOU USE ONE?

Twice daily, says Dr Calvin Chan, medical director of Calvin Chan Aesthetic & Laser Clinic.

It will stimulate blood circulation and lymphatic drainage as well as remove dead skin cells.

3 CAN YOU OVERCLEANSE AND OVEREXFOLIATE?

Yes. "While clogged pores beg for a good exfoliation, going overboard with cleansing can stress skin and cause oil glands to go into overdrive," says Dr Elias Tam, founder of and resident doctor at Eha Clinic.

How do you know if you are using the cleansing brushes too often? When you see warning signs such as broken capillaries, or when your skin feels unnaturally dry and irritated. So, keep the cleansing to just twice daily.

4 ARE THESE TOOLS SUITABLE FOR EVERYONE?

No. Those with broken, red or very inflamed skin should give facial cleansing brushes a miss, says Dr Chan. "Those with a bad case of acne should also skip the brushes. The same goes for those who have undergone aesthetic treatments where downtime is involved, such as strong laser or chemical peels."

5 HOW SHOULD YOU STORE THE GADGETS AND KEEP THEM CLEAN?

Dr Chan recommends storing them in a cool, dry place so that they do not become damp breeding grounds for bacteria.

He also advises rinsing them with tap water after every use. And, because dirty brushes can cause breakouts, you should clean them once a week with an anti-residue facial cleanser or shampoo to remove soap and dirt build-up. Choose a foaming formula - oil-based ones can leave a layer of oil on the bristles and clog your pores.

Also, replace brush heads every three to six months - you do not want rough, worn-out bristles anywhere near your face.

FOR NORMAL SKIN

Sisley Gentle Brush Face and Neck, $52

Philips Visapure, $229, and replacement Brush Head for Normal Skin, $14

FOR OILY SKIN AND LARGE PORES

Clarisonic Mia 2, $215, and Deep Pore Brush Head, $35

FOR COMBINATION SKIN

"If you have acne-prone skin, choose a brush with softer bristles and a device with fewer oscillations or movements to avoid causing further irritation," says Dr Calvin Chan, medical director of Calvin Chan Aesthetic & Laser Clinic. Of course, if you already have a bad case of acne, do not use a cleansing brush.

Etude House Wonder Pore Cleansing Brush, $9.90

FOR SENSITIVE SKIN

"Opt for brushes with softer bristles. If you use an electronic brush, choose the lower speed setting for a gentler cleanse," advises Dr Elias Tam, founder of and resident doctor at Eha Clinic.

Olay Regenerist Advanced Cleansing System, $49.90, and replacement brush head, $11.90

Shiseido The Skincare Cleansing Massage Brush, $35

Her World, Singapore's No. 1 women's magazine published by SPH Magazines is available at all newsstands now. Check out more stories at Her World online, www.herworld.com.