How to Wash Your Face like a Pro: Dos and Don’ts

We all do it, but are we doing it right? Splash some water, rub a bit, rinse, and you’re done. But there’s actually a bit more to it if you want to keep your skin happy and glowing. Explore the ultimate guide on how to wash your face like a pro. Your best skin starts with these tips. 

Do Use a Cleanser for Your Skin Type 

Not all skin is created equal, and neither are cleansers. The first step is to identify your skin type—whether it’s oily, dry, combination, normal, or sensitive. You can easily find it out by taking a quick skin type quiz on OnSkin. Once you know your skin type, you can confidently pick the right cleanser. 

Do Opt for a Gentle Cleanser 

Can you wash your face with just water? Well, it’s better not to. 

A cleanser is essential because it removes dirt, excess oil, and makeup without stripping your skin of its natural oils. So, no harsh soaps that leave your face feeling like it’s been through a sandstorm. 

The American Academy of Dermatology advises you to have a gentle cleanser that is both non-abrasive and alcohol-free. It’s also wise to steer clear of bottles that contain sulfates and strong fragrances. The goal is to clean your face without damaging its natural barrier. Your skin will thank you. ❤️

Do Wash Your Face Twice a Day 

If you’re wondering “Should I wash my face twice a day?”, the answer is a resounding yes. 

The rule is simple: wash your face once in the morning and once at night. And yes, even if you’re dead tired after a long day, that evening cleanse is non-negotiable. Why? Because your skin accumulates dirt, oil, and pollution throughout the day. 

Plus, washing off your makeup before bed is crucial to avoid clogged pores and breakouts. Still, falling asleep with your makeup on is one of the things that worsen acne. 

If you’ve been sweating, especially after a workout, make sure to cleanse as soon as possible. Extra sweat on your skin mixed with bacteria and dead cells may cause irritation. This is definitely not what you want! 

Do Wash Your Hands First 

​​This might seem like a no-brainer, but trust us, it’s easy to forget. Before you even think about touching your face, wash your hands thoroughly. You don’t want to transfer any bacteria or grime from your hands to your face. Think of it as prepping your tools before you start the job. 

Don’t Use Hot Water 

Hot water might feel soothing, especially after a long day, but it’s not doing your skin any favors. It can dry out and irritate your skin. 

Simply stick to lukewarm water. It’s enough—if you’re figuring out how to wash your face with no extra harm. This helps in removing grime without stripping away essential oils. If you want an extra refreshing boost, try rinsing with cool water—it can help tighten your skin through better blood circulation. For those with acne-prone skin, cool water will help with pores appearing smaller. 

Don’t Wash Your Face for Longer Than Two Minutes 

Face washing should be thorough but brief. Spending more than two minutes on this step can actually harm your skin by disrupting healthy sebum production and causing irritation. Aim for 30 seconds to two minutes—enough time to cleanse without overdoing it. 

Don’t Over-Cleanse or Scrub Hard 

When figuring out how to wash your face gently but thoroughly, remember that less is more. 

Over-cleansing or scrubbing too hard can damage your skin’s protective barrier, leading to dryness, irritation, or even breakouts. Be gentle and use your fingertips to apply the cleanser in circular motions. There’s no need to scrub your skin raw—remember, we’re aiming for a healthy glow, not a rosy rash. 

Do Double Cleanse for Makeup or Sunscreen 

If you love makeup or slather on sunscreen (you probably know how important that is), then double cleansing is a better-to-do for you. It’s all about using two types of cleansers—starting with an oil-based one to melt away makeup and sunscreen, and then following up with your regular gentle cleanser. 

This two-step process ensures every last bit of dirt and oil is gone, leaving your skin perfectly prepped for the rest of your routine. But before you dive in, check out this guide on double cleansing to make sure you’re doing it right. 

Don’t Exfoliate Every Day 

Exfoliation is great for removing dead skin cells and keeping your complexion bright, but doing it too often can backfire. Daily exfoliation using, for instance, a scrub with beads can deplete your skin of its natural oils, leading to hypersensitivity and even premature aging. 

Stick to exfoliating 2–3 times a week, depending on your skin type, and use gentle exfoliants to avoid overdoing it. 

For daily cleansers, opt for products that contain lactic acid, glycolic acid, salicylic acid, or fruit enzymes. These ingredients are great at sloughing skin away. Still, checking what works best for your skin type first would be a smart move. 

Do Gently Pat Dry with a Soft Towel 

This is a simple yet important aspect of how to wash your face properly: avoid rubbing your skin dry. Instead, delicately blot your face with a soft and clean towel. Rubbing can cause skin irritation, especially if it’s sensitive. 

Plus, always make sure your towel is just for your face and regularly washed—no one wants bacteria from a dirty towel all over their freshly cleansed skin.

If your skin is prone to breakouts or is highly sensitive, consider using clean, disposable tissues or face wipes instead of a towel. This can help keep your skin in better condition. 

The Final Touch 

So next time you head to the sink, think of it as a little self-care ritual rather than a chore. With the right products, the right techniques, and a little bit of love, your face-washing routine can become one of the most important steps in your skincare journey. And hey, your future self (with that glowing skin) will definitely thank you!