We often wonder how often we should wash our face for the best skin health. Some say once a day is enough, while others suggest two or three times. But what do the experts say? After talking to three skin care professionals, including two dermatologists and an esthetician, they all agree on the same answer.
Why washing your face is key to healthy skin
Washing your face is more important than many realize. It removes dirt, oil, sweat, makeup, and environmental pollutants that collect on your skin throughout the day. Dr. Lauren Moy, a double board-certified dermatologist, emphasizes that cleaning your face properly also makes other skin care products work better.
Neglecting to wash your face can cause a buildup of dead skin cells, oil, and dirt that clog pores. This buildup often leads to breakouts and acne, as well as dull, uneven skin tone that may feel irritated or inflamed. Especially if you leave sweat and makeup on overnight, problems only multiply.
But washing too often comes with its own problems. Holly Mueller, a cosmetic nurse and founder of Med 44 Arcadia, explains that over-cleansing strips away your skin’s natural oils, which can cause dryness, irritation, and sensitivity. Striking the right balance is key.
The experts’ take on how often to wash your face
All three skin care pros we spoke with agree the best routine for most people is to wash the face twice daily — once in the morning and once at night.
Washing in the morning removes sweat, oil, and leftover products like creams and serums from bedtime. It also preps your skin to absorb antioxidants and sunscreen better during the day, explains Dr. Kseniya Kobets, director of cosmetic dermatology at Montefiore Einstein Advanced Care.
At night, washing removes the day’s buildup of sweat, dirt, pollution, and makeup. This step is critical to allow nighttime products to work effectively.
Customizing face washing for your skin type
The experts say this twice-a-day routine holds for all skin types, but your choice of cleanser matters a lot.
If you have dry or sensitive skin, choose a gentle cleanser that hydrates. Cream or oil-based cleansers enriched with ingredients like glycerin, hyaluronic acid, or niacinamide are excellent options. Water alone doesn’t remove the layers of dirt and allergens, which can cause clogged pores and worsen allergies or acne.
For acne-prone skin, a gentle gel or water-based cleanser with non-comedogenic ingredients is best. If you exercise frequently, it’s smart to wash your face right after working out to clear away sweat, oil, and bacteria. If washing immediately is inconvenient, using micellar water and a soft cloth can be a quick fix, followed by a lightweight moisturizer.
People with oily skin often feel the urge to wash their face more than twice a day. But beware — over-washing can backfire. Stripping your skin’s oils can trigger even more oil production as your skin tries to compensate. This imbalance not only worsens oiliness but may cause breakouts and irritation.
If your face feels tight and dry but still looks shiny, you’re probably over-washing. Return to a gentle, twice-daily routine and stick to hydrating, non-comedogenic cleansers.
I remember when I was struggling with oily skin and thought washing more frequently would help. Instead, my skin became dry and irritated, making the oiliness worse. Switching to a mild cleanser and washing only morning and night really transformed my skin’s texture and mood.
What’s your experience with washing your face? Do you wash once a day, twice, or more? Share your thoughts and tips below — your story might help someone else find the perfect routine. If you found this article helpful, don’t hesitate to share it with friends who are also on a quest for healthier skin!