Style + Beauty

published : 2023-11-28

How often should you wash your face? Dermatologists reveal the truth

Dermatologists share surprising truths about how often you should wash your face — and how to do it properly

A serene image of a person gently washing their face with a foaming cleanser, promoting proper face cleansing. (Taken with a Canon EOS 5D Mark IV)

Are you washing your face enough?

This is a common question that many patients ask dermatologists.

The debate around how often to wash your face is ongoing, and people are looking for answers.

To get to the bottom of this important topic, Fox News Digital spoke with dermatologist Dr. Fayne Frey.

Dr. Frey shared some of the best advice for taking care of our skin.

So, how frequently should you wash your face according to dermatologists?

The verdict is in: All four dermatologists consulted for this article recommend washing your face twice a day.

However, there are factors like skin type and lifestyle that can influence this recommendation.

Dr. Wendy Long Mitchell, a New York-based dermatologist, emphasized the importance of considering individual needs.

While washing your face twice a day is generally a good rule of thumb, it might not be necessary for everyone.

A close-up shot of a person with dry skin applying a moisturizer to their face, showcasing the importance of skincare for dry skin types. (Taken with a Nikon D850)

For those with dry or sensitive skin, washing once a day might suffice.

On the other hand, if you have oily skin, washing twice a day can help remove excess oil that clogs pores.

Dr. Morgana Colombo, a Virginia-based dermatologist, explained that washing your face before bed and in the morning is ideal to cleanse your skin of dirt and oil.

Throughout the day, your skin is exposed to various pollutants that can accumulate on its surface.

Dr. Sapna Palep, a board-certified dermatologist, emphasized the importance of washing your face before bed.

She recommends doing so before applying any additional skincare products.

Using a gentle cleanser is key to effectively clean your face without stripping away essential oils.

It's recommended to use warm water for washing and to gently pat your face dry instead of rubbing it.

Dr. Rachel Reyes-Bergano, a medical director, suggests using micellar water or a non-soap based cleanser after a workout.

Following this, applying a moisturizer helps maintain your skin's protective barrier.

A vibrant image of a person with radiant and clear skin, emphasizing the benefits of a consistent skincare routine. (Taken with a Sony Alpha a7 III)

It's important to note that makeup wipes can be abrasive and potentially irritate the skin.

So, for a consistent skincare regimen, washing your face after exercise is crucial to prevent clogged pores and acne.

Consistency and thoroughness are key when it comes to washing your face.

Experts advise using fingertips to apply gentle circular strokes and washing for at least 30 seconds.

The bottom line is that washing your face is essential for overall skin health.

Neglecting proper cleansing can lead to various skin issues such as irritation, dullness, breakouts, and inflammation.

By establishing a skincare routine that includes washing your face daily or twice daily, you can expect clearer and healthier skin.

Remember, even after a long day, don't skip washing your face before bed.

Your skin will thank you.

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