Should you wash your face every day?

Dougie (No)

The narrative that we must wash our faces daily is purely cultural. On makeup-free days when someone hasn’t been sweating or getting dirty, there’s really no need to lather up and scrub. No rise in skin conditions or infections is shown in certain communities that virtually never wash their faces. People can still have radiant skin even in regions that lack running water.

Worldwide, there’s no true consensus on the proper face-washing protocol. Despite brand-sponsored claims from dermatologists in overplayed ads for pricey, several-step skin care regimens, there’s nothing wrong with a simple rinse while bathing. This method is also more economical and eco-friendly, consuming much less time, water, and money. Many facial cleansers are overly harsh, containing chemical irritants like solvents and detergents that actually worsen the very issues they claim to alleviate. Some cleansers also contain antibacterial agents that eliminate all good bacteria along with the bad. This, too, can worsen skin issues like acne and dryness.

Healthy skin is achieved by balancing multiple factors, including genetics, age, hormones, and more. The recipe for success is different for every face, and many individuals find that less is, in fact, more. For instance, many people who reduce their face-washing habits notice significant improvements, citing less inflammation and breakouts.

Overwashing strips away lipids and interrupts our natural oil production cycle. This commonly backfires, prompting the over-production of oil to compensate. Alternatively, allowing natural oils to self-regulate can produce more moderate oil production and a better complexion overall.

Bre (Yes)

Throughout the day, our skin comes in contact with pollutants, such as dirt, bacteria, and particulates, that cause free-radical damage and worsen signs of aging. With that, plus all the products we use and the sweat we produce, unwanted buildup can be problematic.

Face washing removes dead skin cells and impurities, reducing the appearance of pores and helping skin look more youthful and vibrant. On the other hand, hitting the hay with a face full of grime is more likely to clog pores, and then it looks (and feels) even ickier the following day. Plus, it dirties clean bedding faster, requiring more frequent washes and taking a greater toll on the planet.

When makeup, dirt, and oil aren’t routinely washed away, it can lead to (or worsen) facial irritation and contribute to acne issues. Daily face washing is especially important for people with skin conditions that make them more sensitive, like rosacea and eczema. Moreover, any face care products people use will be limited in effectiveness if their face-washing habits are poor or irregular. A refreshing splash of cold water and a mild cleanser just once a day can easily become a positive self-care ritual, even for the most minimalist faces, to consistently stay cleaner and cooler.

Finally, for anyone engaging in regular physical exercise—a practice deemed extremely beneficial by the overwhelming majority of health experts—skipping face washing typically produces unwanted outcomes. The bottom line is that good hygiene is important for maintaining our overall health. So, it’s no surprise that leading professionals widely recommend personal cleaning habits like daily face washing.