How Often Should You Use Face Wash Daily?

In the modern world, increased pollution and dust makes our face full of dirt and bacteria. Moreover sweat and oil accumulates that leads to clogged pores which results in acne or skin breakout and damages the skin barrier. A healthy skin barrier is responsible for locking moisture and preventing the entry of harmful substances inside the pores. 

That’s why people use a face wash which helps in removing the dust, oil and bacteria from the face and gives a fresh look. But many people who just started using the face wash often make mistakes such as over washing the face which even strips out the skin’s natural oil, making the skin dry and forcing the body to make more oil which results in acne or skin breakout. 

Therefore in this guide we will talk about the general rule of washing the face, how many times you should wash your face as per your skin type and common face wash mistakes people make that will help you to decide the number of times you should wash your face which will prevent any skin irritation or related issues. 

General Rule of Washing the Face

Many experts have suggested that washing your face twice a day (one in the morning and one before going to bed) provides the most benefits by removing excess oil and dust while preventing skin dryness or irritation.  

• Morning Wash

Many people think that we are indoors during the sleep time and there is no need for face wash. But in reality, during sleep oil, sweat and dust from the pillow accumulates that needs to be removed. So a morning wash provides:

1. Removes the accumulation of sweat and oil

2. Gives a fresh and clean look

3. Ready your face for other steps like moisturizer and sunscreen

• Night Wash

People who have spent their day outside, their face is now full of pollution, dust, UV damage, oil and skin care products. So washing your face at the night help with:

1. It helps in removing the day dust, pollution and excess oil

2. Ready your face for night time skincare routine

3. Helps in removing heavy skin care products. 

Should You Wash Your Face More than Twice?

The answer to this question depends upon your daily routine. If you are someone who regularly does intense gym workouts, heavy physical activity or is engaged in an activity that forces high amounts of sweat then washing your face in between the day with a gentle cleaner is a good option. But note that repetitive washing of the face can strip out the skin’s natural oil which forces the body to produce more oil and resulting in skin irritation or dryness. But if you are not engaged in heavy physical activity then it's best to wash your face twice only. 

How many times should you Face Wash according to your Skin Type?

• Oily Skin

Oily skin people generally produce more oil. So washing your face with a cleaner containing ingredients to reduce the excess oil 2 times a day is ideal. As it helps to prevent the buildup of excess oil and prevent acne or skin breakouts

• Dry Skin

People with dry skin should go for a cream based cleanser. Washing two times a day is great, but using a cream based cleanser containing hydrating ingredients helps in protecting the skin from dry or flaky skin. 

• Combination Skin

Individuals having combination skin usually have both oily and dry skin. So they can wash them two times a day if they are using a cleanser that helps with both hydration and managing excess oil production. 

• Sensitive Skin

These people need extra attention and care from other skin types. Using a gentle cleanser is a must to remove extra oil while preventing skin from irritation and related issues. They can do it two times a day but if they are facing tightness or dryness then consulting with a doctor is advised. 

Common Mistakes

While using the face cleanser people often make mistakes that result in skin irritation, dryness or roughness. Some common mistakes are:

Using the Wrong Face Wash

Using the face wash not according to your skin type can cause various skin problems like skin irritation, dryness or redness.  So make sure you are selecting a face wash as per your skin type. 

Over Scrubbing

Many people think that scrubbing the cleanser aggressively on the face will help with better effectiveness of the cleanser. But in reality, scrubbing the face aggressively can damage the skin barrier and cause rashes on the face. So gentle circular motion is preferred for washing the face. 

Skipping the Moisturizer

People having oily skin think skipping the moisturizer will help in reducing the shiny look from the face. But in reality it makes the skin and forces the body to produce more oil and resulting in acne or skin breakouts. Therefore applying a layer of moisturizer on the face after cleansing is key to keep the skin moisturized. 

Washing the Face with Hot Water

Hot water strips out the skin’s natural oil and makes the skin dry, which forces the body to produce more oil and result in skin breakout or acne. Avoiding these common mistakes help you get the most benefits while reducing the risk of skin related problems. 

Wrapping Up

A best face wash will only provide benefits when it is used correctly. Many people wash their face many times a day thinking it will reduce the excess oil and dirt. But in reality, over washing the face with cleanser even strips out the skin’s natural oil which makes the skin dry that forces the body to produce more sebum which results in excess oil and causes acne or skin breakout. 

Therefore having the understanding of the general rule of washing the face, how many times you should wash as per your skin type and mistakes one should avoid will help you to use the face wash correctly and attain a healthy and glowing skin.