Taking care of my skin has always been a top priority for me, and one of the cardinal rules of my beauty routine is washing my face before bed. It’s a habit that my mother instilled in me from a young age, and it has become second nature ever since.
However, despite being such a simple and common practice, you’ve often had questions about the best way to wash your face. How often should you wash your face? Can you overwash your face?
To get some expert advice, I reached out to Dr. Jordan Carqueville, a board-certified dermatologist and the founder of the Derm Institute of Chicago. She graciously shared her insights on the best practices for washing our face.
How Often Should you Wash Your Face
Dr. Carqueville explains that washing your face is crucial for removing dirt, makeup, and pollution while replenishing the skin’s moisture.
Neglecting to wash your face frequently enough could lead to a buildup of dead skin cells and clogged pores, which might result in acne issues.
The frequency of face washing depends on your skin type and goals, but as a general guideline, you should aim to wash your face one to two times per day. If you’re short on time or find it challenging to wash your face both in the morning and at night, Dr. Carqueville advises prioritizing the nighttime wash.
According to her, nighttime is when you can effectively remove the accumulated dirt, makeup, and pollutants from the day.
Can you wash your face too often?
As with showering or washing your hair, it is indeed possible to overdo it when it comes to cleansing your face, especially if you have sensitive skin.
Dr. Carqueville cautions that overwashing can strip away the natural oil barrier on your skin, which is essential for its protection and hydration. This could be counterproductive, particularly if your goal is to keep my skin well-hydrated.
Armed with this valuable information, you are now more confident in maintaining a healthy facial cleansing routine.
You’ll make sure to wash your face one to two times a day, tailoring it to your skin type and needs.
Additionally, you’ll be mindful not to overwash your face, being aware of your skin’s sensitivity and the importance of its natural oils.
Taking care of your skin will always be a priority, and with these expert tips, you can continue to nurture your skin and enhance its natural beauty.
When is the best time to wash your face in your skincare routine?
Dr. Carqueville explained that washing your face at the right time can enhance the effectiveness of other skincare products.
If you’re using an acne-fighting, anti-aging, or rosacea treatment that contains active ingredients like retinol or salicylic acid, she recommends washing your face before applying these products.
By doing so, you can remove the oil barriers on your skin, making it easier for the active ingredients to penetrate and work their magic.
Once you’ve applied the product with active ingredients, it’s essential to replenish the lost moisture on the skin’s surface using a hydrating formula that contains humectants.
How do you choose the best face wash for your skin?
Selecting the right face wash depends on your skin type and specific needs. If you have oily and acne-prone skin, Dr. Carqueville suggests a cleanser with acne-fighting ingredients like salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide, along with hydrating additives like ceramides and lipids.
These hydrating elements can help counteract any dehydration caused by the active ingredients.
For those with sensitive skin, a fragrance-free and gentle cleanser is the way to go. However, regardless of skin type, using a gentle cleanser is generally a safe option.
Dr. Carqueville explained that while there are specialized cleansers for conditions like rosacea, acne, and anti-aging, a gentle cleanser is ideal for removing dirt, oil, and makeup, preparing the skin for active ingredient absorption by eliminating oil barriers.
What’s the deal with double cleansing?
Double cleansing has become a popular method to elevate the face-washing process, and it involves two steps: first, using an oil-based cleanser and then following up with a water-based cleanser.
Dr. Carqueville highlighted that double cleansing can be especially beneficial for those who wear makeup, as oil attracts oil, effectively drawing out oil-based impurities, including makeup and sebum. She suggested using a gentle oil to remove makeup, which can be better than using makeup wipes.
Some oils from the pantry, such as coconut or olive oil, can work for this purpose.
After cleansing with the oil-based cleanser, you should use a warm, damp washcloth to wipe it off and then proceed with a water-based formula.
This two-step process ensures a deeper clean, leaving your skin refreshed and ready for further skincare products.
With Dr. Carqueville’s expert advice, you now feel more confident in crafting a personalized skincare routine that includes the right face washing techniques and products for your skin type.
This knowledge will undoubtedly help you maintain a healthy and radiant complexion for years to come.
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