Dermatologists Reveal 8 Skin-Cleansing Habits to Quit

Cleansing is the cornerstone of any effective skincare routine, removing makeup, dirt, oil, and environmental pollutants that accumulate on your skin. However, even the most diligent routines can go awry if you’re unknowingly making mistakes. Dermatologists say these eight habits could be harming your skin more than helping.

1. Cleansing Too Often

It’s tempting to over-wash your face, especially if you have oily or acne-prone skin. But washing too frequently can strip your skin of its natural oils, leading to irritation and increased breakouts.

What to Do Instead:

Stick to cleansing twice a day once in the morning to remove sweat and oil from overnight, and once at night to wash away makeup and impurities. Only add a midday cleanse if you’ve exercised or gotten particularly sweaty.

2. Overloading on Active Ingredients

Actives like retinoids, salicylic acid, and vitamin C are powerful tools in addressing skin concerns, but using too many at once can cause irritation and disrupt your skin barrier.

What to Do Instead:

Introduce one active ingredient at a time and allow your skin to adjust. Dermatologists recommend starting with one active for at least a month before adding another to your routine.

3. Cleansing Only Once a Day

Skipping your morning or nighttime cleanse can leave dirt, oil, and pollutants on your skin, increasing the risk of breakouts and dullness.

What to Do Instead:

Aim to cleanse twice daily. If you’re prone to dryness, opt for gentle, hydrating cleansers like Neutrogena Hydro Boost or Avene XeraCalm AD Lipid Replenishing Cleansing Oil.

4. Using Harsh Physical Exfoliants

While exfoliation is essential for glowing skin, harsh scrubs with abrasive particles like nut shells can cause micro-tears and irritation.

What to Do Instead:

Choose cleansers with gentle, dissolvable exfoliants like jojoba beads, or opt for chemical exfoliants like AHAs (e.g., glycolic acid) for a gentler approach.

5. Washing Your Face With Bar Soap

Bar soaps can alter your skin’s pH, leaving it dry and prone to irritation.

What to Do Instead:

If you prefer bar soap, choose one designed for sensitive skin, like Dove’s Beauty Bar, which includes moisturizing ingredients to maintain your skin barrier.

6. Avoiding Cleansing Oils

For oily or acne-prone skin, the idea of using an oil cleanser might feel counterintuitive. But oils are excellent at breaking down makeup and impurities without stripping your skin.

What to Do Instead:

Try a double-cleansing method: Start with an oil-based cleanser like Elizabeth Arden Ceramide Replenishing Cleansing Oil, then follow up with a gentle gel or cream cleanser.

7. Skipping Post-Workout Cleansing

Sweat and dirt from exercise can clog your pores if left on your skin for too long.

What to Do Instead:

Wash your face immediately after working out. If you’re on the go, keep cleansing wipes in your bag. Dermatologists recommend Neutrogena Makeup Wipes for a quick refresh.

8. Forgetting to Moisturize After Cleansing

Cleansing removes oil and debris but can also leave your skin feeling tight and dry. Skipping moisturizer can compromise your skin barrier and cause dryness.

What to Do Instead:

Apply a moisturizer immediately after cleansing to lock in hydration. Look for products with ceramides, like CeraVe Daily Moisturizing Lotion, to restore your skin barrier.

The Bottom Line

Cleansing is essential for healthy skin, but overdoing or skipping key steps can backfire. By adopting these dermatologist-approved habits, you can maintain clean, healthy, and glowing skin.

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