Common Mistakes Made When Washing Your Face

Washing your face is something you probably don’t think too much about. We’re taught from an early age that, in order to maintain healthy skin, we must wash with soap and water. But is it really that simple? Not really; there may be many mistakes made when washing your face that can affect your skin’s health and vibrance.

If you’re making any of these mistakes, it may be time to refine your skin care routine:

You Don’t Wash Often Enough

Whether or not you wear makeup, always wash your face before bed. Dirt and pollutants build up on your skin all day. Washing at night can reduce the risk of inflammation, irritation, and acne breakouts. Skipping a morning facewash is determinantal as well. You can collect germs from your pillowcase, while bacteria from saliva and oil from hair can reach your face and eyes.

You Wash Too Frequently

More than two face washes a day can dry out your skin. Also, more oils may be produced to compensate. If you have dry skin, cleansing once a day may be enough. A single daily wash should be done in the evening after dirt and pollutants have accumulated all day long.

The Water Is Too Hot

Hot water is not helpful. The skin on your face is sensitive and hot water strips away oils that help maintain the integrity of your skin. Your skin might also become more dry, itchy, and flaky. Hot water can also dilate blood vessels and cause tissue damage. However, water that’s too cold won’t let your pores open. For the best results, wash with lukewarm water.

You Rub in Cleanser Wrong

Many people rub too aggressively when gentle rubbing will suffice. It doesn’t take much to remove impurities. Instead, rub the cleanser in using outward circles. This will stimulate blood flow and for lymph to carry waste away. And when you dry off, pat your skin rather than rub with a towel, which can strip away proteins, lipids, and fatty acids.

Washing with Dirty Hands

By not washing your hands first, harmful germs might be transferred to your face. Germs collect on our hands from many different surfaces all day long. Washing your hands thoroughly should be the first step.

Using the Wrong Cleanser

There are many different cleansers, made for every type of skin. What works for one person might not work for another. Hydrating, gentle cleansers are best for sensitive skin, while foaming or salicylic acid-based cleansers are best for oily or acne-prone skin. Cream cleansers are more suited for dry skin.

Not Moisturizing Right Away

Moisturizing products should be applied immediately after a facewash. The moisturizer helps retain hydration from water. This is true even if you have oily skin. Surface cells can dehydrate even after a few minutes.

Over-Exfoliating

The process of stripping away dead skin cells from the surface, exfoliating can be beneficial. How often you do this depends on your skin. But don’t go overboard; once or twice a week of exfoliation is typically enough, or you risk causing damage that can lead to irritation and inflammation.

These are just a few common mistakes. By avoiding these, you can learn how to wash your face properly and improve the appearance and health of your skin. If you are considering skin treatment, LDI serves Southern California from our main location in Covina. Contact us by phone or online, or self-schedule your appointment today.