We Asked Experts How Often You Should Wash Your Face—and They All Said the Same Thing

One of the biggest debates in the skin care community is just how often you should wash your face. Some argue it’s a one-and-done deal while others insist that two or three times is the right number. So what’s the ideal? We spoke with three skin care pros—including two dermatologists and an esthetician—about face washing recommendations and they all agreed on the same frequency.
The Importance of Washing Your Face
Washing your face is crucial for maintaining healthy skin. It helps remove dirt, oil, sweat, makeup, and other pollutants we come in contact with throughout the day, explains Lauren Moy, FAAD, a double board certified dermatologist and dermatologic surgeon. She adds that consistent, proper facial cleansing also enhances the effectiveness of other skin care products.

“Not washing your face leads to a build up of dirt, oil, and dead skin cells which then can cause acne and breakouts,” Dr. Moy says. “This buildup can also make the skin appear dull, uneven, and cause irritation or inflammation—especially if sweat and makeup are left on.”

If you don’t wash enough, then you can deal with these issues. And if you over wash, then you can experience problems, as well. Holly Mueller, a cosmetic nurse and the founder of Med 44 Arcadia, says that over-cleansing can strip your skin of its natural oils, leading to increased dryness, irritation, or sensitivity.

How Often to Wash Your Face
The three skin care experts we spoke to about this all agreed that the majority of people benefit from washing their face twice per day—both in the morning and at night.

“Washing it in the morning takes off the sweat, oil, and the built-up layer of products you had put on at bedtime—including creams, serums, and hair products that travelled to the face—and preps the skin for the morning routine by allowing antioxidants and sunscreen to sit better,” explains Kseniya Kobets, FAAD, director of cosmetic dermatology at Montefiore Einstein Advanced Care.

She adds that washing your face at night cleanses off the sweat, dirt, and pollution accumulated over the day and all the layers of creams, serums, and any makeup you wore that day. It also enhances the application of your nighttime skin care products.
If You Have Dry or Sensitive Skin...
This face washing frequency remains the same no matter your skin type. The only adjustments you should make, per the experts we spoke to, is regarding the type of cleanser you use.

If someone has sensitive, irritated, or dry skin, they should use a very gentle cleanser with hydrating ingredients both in the morning and at night, Dr. Kobets says. Look for cream or oil-based cleansers, or products formulated with humectants such as glycerin, hyaluronic acid, and niacinamide.

“I often hear people say they use just water to wash their face either in the morning or at night or both, because they feel like cleansers strip their skin too much. The problem with that is that water may not cleanse off the layered dirt, pollution, and seasonal allergens accumulated on the skin,” says Dr. Kobets. “This can lead to clogged pores, potential acne exacerbation, and allergy flares.”

If You Have Acne-Prone Skin...
Those with acne-prone skin should still wash their face twice per day with a gentle gel or water-based cleanser formulated with non-comedogenic ingredients. The only exception, Mueller says, is if you exercise frequently. In that case, you can wash your face following exercise to remove sweat, bacteria, and any excess oil. Alternatively, you can use a micellar water and a soft cloth to wipe away any sweat or grime. Always follow up with a lightweight moisturizer.

If You Have Oily Skin...
People with oily skin may feel like they need to wash their face more frequently, but don’t fall for that trap. Over washing your face, or using abrasive or drying cleansers, can actually make things worse.

“Over washing can strip the skin of natural oils, resulting in dryness, irritation, and an imbalance in the skin's barrier,” Dr. Moy says. “This can then coincidentally lead to increased oil production as the skin tries to compensate. This can then cause breakouts, as well as irritation and sensitivity.”

If your skin feels dry and tight with an oily slick over it, then this is a clear sign you’re over-washing. Go back to a twice-daily routine and stick to gentle, hydrating cleansers formulated with non-comedogenic ingredients.