The Morning Face Washing Debate: Is it a Skin Savior or Skin Sin?

The Surprising Reason You Should Wash Your Face Every Morning

Morning face washing – whether to do it or not – is a hot topic in the skincare world. You’ll find skin experts on both sides of the fence: some swear by it, and others suggest you skip it. Here’s the thing: we are in favor of morning face washing. In this blog, we break down why face washing is a must, the science behind your skincare routine, and answer some of your most burning questions. Ready? Let’s dive in!

Why Do You Need to Wash Your Face in the Morning?

This question stirs a lot of debate. Many estheticians and dermatologists argue against washing your face in the morning, claiming it can lead to a compromised skin barrier. This isn’t necessarily true. The real culprit is often using the wrong cleanser or overloading your skin with too many products. So, why should you wash your face in the morning? Simple: while you sleep, your skin is busy detoxing. Your pores excrete dirt, sweat, oil, and toxins – none of which you would like to leave on your skin when you apply your morning skincare products.  Without a proper cleanse, this buildup can clog pores and cause breakouts.

Can I Just Rinse My Face With Water in the Morning?

You can, but it won’t cut it. Rinsing with water alone won’t remove the sweat, dirt, and oil that accumulated overnight. And let’s not forget about your pillowcase! Unless you’re swapping it out for a new one every night (who has time for that?), all that residue from your skin and hair transfers to your pillow and onto your face. This cycle can quickly lead to clogged pores.

What Type of Cleanser Should You Use in the Morning?

We recommend starting your day with a gentle cream or oil-based cleanser. Avoid exfoliating cleansers in the morning, especially if you have dry, dehydrated, or sensitive skin. Exfoliating can be too harsh first thing in the morning. The goal is to protect your skin’s natural barrier, not strip it.

Does Washing Your Face in the Morning Prevent Breakouts?

Yes, it does. Here’s why: when you sleep, your skin repairs itself, releasing toxins through your pores. If you don’t properly wash away this buildup, it can clog your pores and lead to breakouts. A gentle morning cleanse sets you up for clearer skin throughout the day.

Should You Wash Your Face in the Morning if You Have Dry Skin?

Absolutely, but with the right cleanser. For dry skin, we recommend using a cream or oil-based cleanser to avoid stripping your skin of essential moisture. Steer clear of harsh or even “gentle” over-the-counter cleansers – even those marketed for sensitive skin – as many of them contain irritating ingredients, such as fragrance, that can exacerbate dryness. 

Is it OK to Skip Morning Face Washing?

While it’s not something we suggest, we all have days where we end up skipping from time to time. The key is consistency. Skipping your morning cleanse occasionally won’t do long-term damage, but making it a habit? That’s when skin problems begin to show up. As Time magazine notes, “Not washing your face leads to a buildup of dead skin cells on the skin surface can make the skin look dull and uneven in tone and feel rough to the touch. If clogged pores aren’t cleaned, they can become enlarged and more noticeable over time. Pollutants left on the skin can also generate free radicals that contribute to premature aging.”

Remember: just because a trend is going viral on TikTok doesn’t mean it’s good for your skin. Many viral skincare trends come from influencers who lack professional training.

What is the Perfect Morning Skincare Routine?

A good morning skincare routine starts with a gentle cleanser. Our top cleansers include our cream or oil-based cleansers. If you have acne-prone skin, we like either a gel-based or foaming cleanser.

Next, apply your daily serums. Layer them based on your skin’s needs (we recommend no more than 1-3 serums). Our favorites include hyaluronic acid, peptides, and Vitamin C.

End with moisturizer and sunscreen.  We recommend a tinted SPF moisturizer for a quick, all-in-one product that acts as your daily moisturizer, sunscreen, and tint. If you need extra hydration, a richer moisturizer for dry, dehydrated, or sensitive skin types is perfect. 

Ready To Uplevel Your Skin?

Everyone is entitled to their opinion on skincare. As experts with over 20 years in the esthetics industry, we’ve seen trends come and go. The foundation is simple: wash your face and keep it clean! If your skin still feels tight after your routine, it may be time to find an esthetician who can assess your skin and help you select products that nourish your skin. Finding the right balance is key to avoiding over-stripping your skin and maintaining a healthy, balanced skin barrier. Shop for skincare or book your appointment today and take the first step towards healthier skin.