9 Mistakes You’re Making When Washing Your Face

Table of Contents

As long as you can remember, but what if I told you that there are some bad habits you may have developed that make the difference between reaching your healthiest, most radiant skin and not quite making it?

Spoke with dermatologists and skincare specialists to gather information on the habits to give up and mistakes to avoid at all costs when it comes to washing your face.

1. Doing too much (or too little) of something.

Dr. Whitney Bowe says, "This can irritate the skin and take away its natural protective oils, leading to problems such as dry skin, eczema, and even acne."

According to a survey by GH of over 5,000 readers, using a facial cleanser is crucial. Failing to do so may result in clogged pores, discoloration, and dull skin, and lead to breakouts.

director of the Beauty, Health and Sustainability Laboratory

2. Not Removing Your Makeup Before Bed

.

3. Missing spots

Most people focus on the T-zone when cleaning, forgetting about other areas like the hairline and the space around the nose, where dirt can accumulate and cause clogged pores and blemishes. "Pull your hair away from your face before washing by securing it with a headband, hair tie or bobby pins," says Wizemann. Clean from the center of your face outwards, then move along the hairline and along the edges to just below the chin to cover the entire area.

There is a common mistake that can be costly when making an online purchase, but there's a way to avoid it.

It performs well on various skin types (such as dry, combination/oily, or sensitive), so find one that suits your needs and texture preference, and you'll be more likely to continue using it.

5. Using hot water

Using a hot shower might feel luxurious, but it can be bad for your skin, warns Dr. Bowe. Hot water can damage the skin's protective layer, causing it to become sensitive. "For a gentle cleanse, make sure the water temperature is lukewarm and test it with your finger first," recommends Wizemann.

6. Forgetting to moisturize

can effectively treat dry skin and help alleviate problems such as itching or flakiness.

7. Relying solely on cleansing wipes.

A certified dermatologist, Dr. M.D., advises that "some makeup wipes contain preservatives that may cause allergic contact dermatitis," suggesting that when choosing makeup wipes, water-based products are a safer option.

8. Using harsh tools

"Using clean hands, washed with soap and water, can serve as the best tools for washing your face. 'Devices like brushes can be irritating or abrasive for some skin types,' she states.

9. Not double cleansing

To thoroughly clean the dirt and grime from your face, the key thing is to wash your face twice. According to Dr. Lenzy, this can be done by washing once with a gentle cleanser, moving your hands in two strokes to ensure your face is clean. Alternatively, you can first wash your face with an "oil-based cleanser, then follow it up with a gentle cleanser."