You might think skincare starts with sunscreen, serums, or supplements, but a proper face wash is actually the essential foundation. According to a CeraVe survey, 80% of Americans make at least one common mistake when washing their face—such as using the wrong products. For example, 66% of men and 40% of women use hand soap or body wash on their face, and over a third simply use water. While dermatologists recommend washing twice a day (morning and night), more than half of respondents admit they don’t wash properly before bed.
Skincare expert Dr. Sam Bunting tells Vogue, “Get cleansing wrong and it’s very hard to get skincare right.” Nighttime cleansing is especially important because your skin is exposed to pollution, dirt, and temperature changes throughout the day. How you care for your skin in the evening matters too.
Dermatologist Lena de Pons highlights the importance of balance: “Many people believe ‘more is more’ and use too much cleanser, thinking it cleans better. But it takes a lot of water to properly emulsify soap and create a lather. Using too much can actually cause skin problems. If you don’t rinse thoroughly, residue can remain and lead to pimples or irritation. Whether it’s hand soap, shampoo, or body wash, try using less and make sure it emulsifies well. You’ll save product and money!”
Below, de Pons shares five signs you’re not washing your face correctly. If any sound familiar, it might be time to rethink your routine.
5 Signs You’re Not Washing Your Face Properly
1. Your skin feels tight after cleansing.
This means you’ve over-cleansed and stripped away the protective hydrolipidic film—a mix of water and oils that keeps skin healthy.
2. Your skin turns red after washing.
This signals a damaged skin barrier, possibly from water that’s too hot or cold, or from rubbing too hard with a towel.
3. Your skin feels dry after washing.
If your skin feels extremely dry unless you immediately apply another product, your cleanser may be too harsh. Check the ingredients for potential irritants.
4. Your skin itches when you apply the next product.
Don’t blame your moisturizer or serum right away—the issue may stem from your cleanser.
5. You feel an oily film after cleansing.
Your face wash might be too rich for your skin type. Instead of tossing it, try using it on your body, especially on drier areas like your legs.
Always choose a cleanser suited to your skin type and needs. For extra hydration, look for humectants like glycerin or hyaluronic acid. If your skin barrier is compromised, opt for a ceramide-based formula. For oily or blemish-prone skin, ingredients like salicylic acid, glycolic acid, or niacinamide can help balance oil production.
Frequently Asked Questions
Of course Here is a list of FAQs about the 5 signs youre not washing your face properly based on common dermatologist advice
Beginner Foundational Questions
1 Why is washing my face properly so important
It removes dirt oil pollution and leftover makeup that can clog pores cause breakouts and lead to dull uneven skin It also preps your skin to better absorb moisturizers and treatments
2 What are the most common signs Im doing it wrong
According to dermatologists key signs are your skin feels tight or squeakyclean after washing youre breaking out more your skin looks dull youre experiencing more dryness or oiliness and your makeup doesnt go on smoothly
3 How often should I wash my face
Most dermatologists recommend twice a day once in the morning and once at night Washing only at night is a common mistake as you need to remove oil and sweat from overnight
4 Is water temperature a big deal
Yes Very hot water can strip your skins natural oils causing dryness and irritation Lukewarm water is idealits effective without being harsh
Intermediate ProblemSolving Questions
5 My skin feels tight and squeaky clean after washing Isnt that good
No thats a major red flag That tight feeling means youve stripped away your skins essential protective barrier Your cleanser might be too harsh or youre overwashing
6 I wash my face but I still get breakouts What am I missing
You might not be washing for long enough using a cleanser that doesnt match your skin type or not thoroughly removing all sunscreen and makeup Also remember to wash your pillowcases regularly
7 Can improper washing make my skin more oily
Absolutely If you use a harsh cleanser that strips your skin it can trigger a rebound effect where your oil glands go into overdrive to compensate making you oilier
8 What does it mean if my moisturizer or makeup pills on my skin
This is often a sign of poor exfoliation When dead skin cells build up products cant absorb properly and instead ball up on the surface