Cleaning your face is a key element of any skincare regimen. A dermatologist offers guidance on the correct way to wash your face and explains why the method matters.
It may look straightforward, but facial cleansing requires care and attention. Doing it properly can be the difference between radiant skin and a breakout of acne.
“Many people assume you only need to wash your face to remove makeup or when it appears dirty. In reality, it’s advisable to cleanse your face twice a day,” says Jennifer Haley, a board-certified dermatologist based in Scottsdale, Arizona.
That said, the frequency of washing might be less crucial than how you actually do it.
Regardless of your skin type, texture, or condition, Haley emphasizes that an evening cleansing routine is particularly vital.
“Eliminating makeup, dirt, and grime accumulated during the day helps prep the skin for your nighttime skincare steps and supports its natural overnight repair and renewal,” she explains.
Ready to refresh your routine? Follow these dermatologist-approved steps for washing your face.
1. Thoroughly remove makeup first
Begin with a gentle makeup remover before you move on to cleansing, especially at night.
“Pores work to expel toxins overnight and if they’re clogged, everything backs up and skin looks congested,” Haley says.
FYI, this guidance applies to all skin types, even those with a tougher outer layer.
2. Avoid harsh bar soap on your face
Unless formulated specifically for facial use, bar soaps can disrupt your skin’s pH and encourage more bacterial and yeast growth.
Not surprisingly, facial cleansers—particularly cleansing balms—are designed for delicate facial skin.
“There’s a tendency to seek out ‘foaming’ cleansers because people think if it doesn’t foam it’s not cleaning. But foaming agents can actually strip away more of your skin’s natural oils,” says Erum Ilyas, a board-certified dermatologist.
Research supports this, showing that surfactants (the agents that let cleansers break down oil so water can rinse away grime) can disturb the natural order of your skin’s molecules.
3. Use lukewarm water
Let’s clear up a myth: pores aren’t doors. Hot water doesn’t open them, and cold water doesn’t close them.
Extreme temperatures can irritate skin, so aim for a comfortable middle temperature. You don’t want to see redness when you check the mirror.
You might wonder, “Can I wash my face with just water?” The American Academy of Dermatology advises using a mild cleanser.
What does a cleanser do? It helps remove dirt, debris, and excess oil from your skin.
Be gentle when exfoliating
Aggressive scrubbing can remove your skin’s natural protective barrier. The gentlest way to cleanse is with your fingertips, massaging lightly for at least a minute or two.
“For exfoliation, look for cleansers containing salicylic acid, glycolic acid, lactic acid, or fruit enzymes,” Haley says. “Allowing these products to remain on the skin for 60 to 90 seconds will help clear pores and slough off dead skin cells, revealing a healthier glow.”
Don’t overdo it
Your skin has a barrier that protects and helps retain moisture.
Although using a scrub or a bead-containing cleanser might feel pleasant at first, excessive scrubbing or daily use of these products can harm the outermost layer of skin.
One sign of too much exfoliation is heightened sensitivity. This can lead to irritation, breakouts, and a stinging sensation when applying products.
Be aware of daily cleansers with active exfoliating components, like alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) — lactic, glycolic, fruit acids — and beta hydroxy acids (BHAs) — salicylic acid, willow bark — as these are potent in removing surface skin.
4. Try micellar water
Micellar water contains micelle molecules that latch onto makeup and debris and dissolve them.
“Some people, particularly those who don’t wear makeup, can use micellar water as their cleanser,” Haley notes. “If you’re camping or somewhere without running water, micellar water can clean your face and doesn’t always require rinsing.”
5. Skip unnecessary tools
“Studies showing the bacterial buildup on loofah sponges suggest these may not be ideal unless you’re diligent about disinfecting them in a bleach solution,” says Ilyas.
She recommends using your hands instead.
“Once you have soap and water on them, your hands are clean and effective,” she adds.
6. Don’t forget your neck and jawline
Your jawline and neck can also collect dirt and debris and deserve attention.
When massaging your cleanser into the face, gently stroke upward on the jaw and neck to stimulate circulation and encourage the skin to remain firm and naturally lifted.
This step also helps relieve facial muscles after a long, stressful day.
7. Pat dry with a soft towel
Time to reconsider air-drying.
Leaving water to evaporate on your face doesn’t moisturize it; in fact, evaporation can lead to dryness.
Instead, gently pat dry with a soft, antimicrobial towel, taking care around the delicate under-eye area.
8. Don’t over-wash your face
“People often forget they’re likely washing their face in the shower,” Ilyas says. “Add sink washes twice daily, and you may be cleansing three times, which can be excessive.”
Those with dry skin should especially consider reducing how often they wash.
Also, if you’re wondering when to wash your face at night, earlier evening cleansing may be preferable.
Research indicates that keeping your skin’s circadian rhythm in sync might help shield it from damage. Try cleansing as the sun sets rather than much later.
9. Use the right amount of product
If your cleanser isn’t performing as expected, check the quantity you’re using.
With pricier cleansers, there’s a tendency to apply less to stretch the product, but resist that urge.
When unsure, follow the label’s recommended amount—products are usually tested to find the safest and most effective dose for general use.
10. Finish with a toner
While not strictly part of washing, many overlook the importance of the step that follows: restoring balance to your skin.
Toners are lightweight liquids originally used to rebalance skin pH so it can defend itself against bacteria and damage. Today, many offer targeted benefits for specific concerns.
Look for ingredients like:
- rosewater, which has anti-aging benefits
- chamomile, known for soothing effects
- salicylic acid or witch hazel to help combat acne
To apply toner, dab some onto a cotton pad and swipe over areas of concern, such as an oily T-zone.
11. Don’t forget to moisturize
Along with toning, ensure you’re helping your skin retain moisture.
Some people enjoy the “tight” sensation after washing, but that’s a sign of excessive dryness, according to Ilyas.
“Your skin may feel sensitive afterward, or even begin to peel or crack. Using a moisturizer protects skin from over-drying,” she says.
If your skin consistently feels dry after cleansing, consider switching to a gentler or oil-based cleanser.
12. Tweak your routine as needed
Finding others with similar skin types and trying their routines is one way to experiment.
For instance, people with oily skin often find that washing twice daily helps control acne.
Some who avoid skincare products or makeup swear by water-only cleansing, likely because they’ve never disrupted their skin barrier with acids or exfoliants. Genetics also play a big role.
Takeaway
In short: washing is just the first step in preserving your skin’s natural balance.
The rest depends on serums, moisturizers, mists, masks—the list is long. Diet, exercise, and stress levels also influence skin health.
The ideal way to wash your face depends on your cleansing goals. Do you want a quick, single-step, once-a-day routine? Then identify your limits—skin type, water quality, budget—and build from there.
Leave a Reply
You must be logged in to post a comment.