There are many tips circulating on social media about the best way to wash your face for healthy and radiant skin. Among these tips, some suggest that face washing should last exactly 60 seconds.
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However, dermatologist Adam Friedman affirms that there is no scientific basis for this specific duration. The process depends on your skin type and the type of cleanser used, not on a fixed number of seconds.
He added, “Over-washing or vigorous scrubbing can weaken the skin’s barrier, causing dryness and irritation,” according to Health Magazine.
On social media, some encourage trying “double cleansing,” which involves washing the face twice in a row with two different types of cleansers.
Oyetewa Asimba, assistant professor of dermatology, confirmed the importance of this method, especially for people who use sunscreen, heavy makeup, or have oily skin or acne.
“Double cleansing helps remove impurities more effectively and results in cleaner skin,” he said.
The first step is to cleanse with an oil-based or micellar water cleanser, which helps break down oil, makeup, and sunscreen. For the second wash, use a water-based or foaming cleanser to remove dirt and remaining impurities.
However, for dry or sensitive skin, a single gentle cleansing may be sufficient.
Double cleansing can remove essential oils and disrupt the skin barrier, potentially causing irritation. This irritation could worsen skin conditions like acne, seborrheic dermatitis, and increase the risk of skin infections.
It’s also recommended to use a separate towel for your face, as towels can harbor bacteria and dead skin cells.
Ensure the towel you use is soft, as Friedman notes, "depending on the material and structure of the towel, it can be abrasive, almost like a physical exfoliator, which can disrupt the skin barrier even further."
How to Wash Your Face
Face washing is not only about timing and towels but also about technique.
Dr. Zina Nawas, assistant professor of dermatology at Baylor College of Medicine, suggests the first step is to ensure your hands are clean, then splash lukewarm water on your face (not hot, as cold water doesn’t clean effectively).
Next, apply your cleanser. Use "a small amount, about the size of a coin," and gently massage it into the skin in circular motions, focusing on oil-prone areas and being gentle around the eyes.
After massaging, rinse well with lukewarm water. Then, use a clean towel to pat dry the skin, not rub it. Follow this by applying a moisturizer while the skin is still soft.
Dr. Nawas recommends washing your face twice a day if you have normal skin. For dry or sensitive skin, use only water in the morning and cleanse your face at night.
Choosing the Right Cleanser
Foaming Cleansers are ideal for oily or acne-prone skin. One use per day is enough.
Gel Cleansers provide deep cleaning without over-drying and are suitable for normal skin.
Oil-Based Cleansers are helpful for the first step in double cleansing as they help remove waterproof makeup and sunscreen.
Cream or Moisturizing Cleansers are perfect for dry or sensitive skin. You typically won’t need a second cleanse unless you’re wearing makeup.
Exfoliating Cleansers (containing alpha-hydroxy acids, beta-hydroxy acids, or enzymes) should not be used daily or left on the skin for too long as they can cause irritation.
