Frequency of Face Washing: Expert Opinions Revealed
Frequency of Face Washing: Dermatologists and Estheticians Weigh In
Maintaining clean, healthy skin requires regular face washing, but the debate around the ideal frequency persists among skincare enthusiasts. Opinions vary, with some advocating for a single wash, while others insist on multiple cleanses daily. To clarify, we consulted three skincare experts: dermatologists Lauren Moy and Kseniya Kobets, and esthetician Holly Mueller. Their recommendations align on one frequency for face washing.
Washing your face is essential for eliminating daily grime, such as dirt, oil, sweat, makeup, and pollution. Lauren Moy, a double board-certified dermatologist and dermatologic surgeon, asserts that consistent and proper facial cleansing not only removes impurities but also enhances the performance of other skincare products. Failing to wash your face regularly might result in acne, breakouts, a dull complexion, and skin irritation or inflammation due to the buildup of dirt, oil, and dead skin cells.
Conversely, over-cleaning can strip the skin of its natural oils, causing dryness, irritation, or sensitivity, as highlighted by Holly Mueller, a cosmetic nurse and founder of Med 44 Arcadia.
In general, the three skincare specialists we spoke with suggest washing your face twice daily - once in the morning and once in the evening. Kseniya Kobets, director of cosmetic dermatology at Montefiore Einstein Advanced Care, illustrates the benefits of both morning and nightly washing. Washing your face in the morning removes sweat, oil, and the nighttime buildup of creams, serums, and hair products that might have traveled to the face. This routine prepares the skin for the morning skincare routine by allowing antioxidants and sunscreen to work effectively. Washing your face at night removes daily pollution and sweat, while also preparing the skin for nighttime skincare products.
Individuals with dry or sensitive skin should still follow the twice-daily routine but choose hydrating cleansers containing ingredients like humectants, such as glycerin, hyaluronic acid, and niacinamide. Those with acne-prone skin should wash their faces twice per day using gentle gel or water-based cleansers with non-comedogenic ingredients. In some instances, frequent exercisers may find it beneficial to wash their faces following exercise to eliminate sweat, bacteria, and excess oil.
People with oily skin should be cautious not to over-wash, as this can disrupt the skin's natural oil balance and lead to increased skin oil production, breakouts, and skin irritation. It's crucial to opt for gentle, hydrating cleansers formulated with non-comedogenic ingredients. If your skin feels both dry and oily, it's likely you are over-washing, so return to the recommended twice-daily routine and select moisture-rich cleansers.
In summary, the majority of people benefit from washing their faces twice a day, a practice recommended by dermatologists and estheticians to maintain clean, healthy skin. Skincare product choices should be adjusted according to skin type and individual needs. Always follow up with a moisturizer to ensure the skin remains hydrated and healthy.
- Following the recommendations of three skincare experts, washing your face twice daily - once in the morning and once in the evening - is essential for maintaining clean, healthy skin.
- Proper facial cleansing not only eliminates impurities but also enhances the performance of other skincare products, as asserted by double board-certified dermatologist and dermatologic surgeon, Lauren Moy.
- Over-cleaning can strip the skin of its natural oils, causing dryness, irritation, or sensitivity, as highlighted by holistic skincare expert and founder of Style by Nature, Holly Mueller.
