Should you wash face before or after shower?
Noah Mitchell
Published Jan 06, 2026
Have no fear – we've done our share of research, and the answer is clear: post-shower is definitely the way to go. Sure, washing your face in the shower saves time but it can also do more harm than good – like, clogging pores with other products (gross) or drying out skin with hot water (ouch).
Can I wash my face before shower?
Myth: You shouldn't wash your face in the shower.
She continued, "As long as you are not using scorching-hot water or harsh soaps, washing your face while you're in the shower will save you time, save water, and give you a deeper cleaning to prep your skin for the rest of your skin-care routine."
When should you wash your face?
"Most dermatologists recommend face-washing twice daily, once in the morning and once before bed," says Zeichner. "In reality, this doesn't always happen. If you're going to skip [a wash], then it's better to skip the morning one than the evening one.
Do you use face cleanser before or after shower?
They can both be drying on the skin, and whatever is in the water — think pollution, animals, chemicals — can contribute to irritation. So, be sure to use a facial cleanser after swimming. Lastly, you'll want to cleanse your face in the shower especially if you're washing your hair.
Should I wash my face after a facial?
Washing your face immediately after a facial will strip away its benefits. Do not wash your face at least for a day particularly with harsh cleansers because they contain chemicals that may only cause irritation and redness. Note: After the no-wash period, you may now wash your face.
40 related questions foundWhy you shouldn't wash your face in the morning?
It protects your skin's natural barrier
Your skin works hard all night building its own natural barrier against the world (a layer of helpful oils keeps skin soft), so why strip it all away as soon as you wake up with a face wash? “Washing your face in the morning can strip your natural defense barrier,” says Carlen.
How do you properly wash your face?
Face washing 101
- Use a gentle, non-abrasive cleanser that does not contain alcohol.
- Wet your face with lukewarm water and use your fingertips to apply cleanser.
- Resist the temptation to scrub your skin because scrubbing irritates the skin.
- Rinse with lukewarm water and pat dry with a soft towel.
What is the order to wash your face?
The order should be: wash, cleanse, exfoliate, tone, face mask, moisturiser. By following this order, you'll be able to remove all the dirt and impurities from your face, and you'll be on your way to a clearer, healthy-looking skin.
Should I wash my face when it's oily?
How often should you wash if you have oily or acne-prone skin? The urge to overcleanse is common in those with oily or acne-prone skin. There's no need to wash the face more than twice a day. In fact, doing so may dry out your skin.
Can washing your face cause acne?
Washing your face throughout the day can irritate your skin and cause acne breakouts.
Does not washing your face help acne?
"Not washing your face could cause the buildup of oil and dirt that may lead to acne, more prominent pores, and inflammation," she says.
Is soap or face wash better for face?
When it comes to washing your face, generally you have two options – a soap or a face wash. Both will clean your face but there are differences in the way they do it. Soap is harsher whereas a face wash is gentler on your skin. Experts, therefore, suggest using a good face wash for your face.
What should be a skincare routine?
Here are the steps for a good skincare regimen:
- Wash your face. Morning and night, rinse your face water and rub a small amount of gentle cleanser between clean palms. ...
- Apply toner. ...
- Apply serum. ...
- Apply eye cream. ...
- Use spot treatment. ...
- Moisturize. ...
- Apply retinoid. ...
- Apply face oil.
What is Cetaphil face wash?
Cetaphil gentle skin cleanser is Specially formulated and clinically proven for everyday cleansing of even the most sensitive skin. This unique, soap-free and mild lathering formula rinses easily leaving skin soft and smooth.
How do I keep my face matte all day?
Use a matte face primer before applying foundation (or on its own to keep shine at bay), resulting in much less shine throughout the day. It'll instantly absorb excess oil and give your skin a smooth, velvety finish.
What should apply after face wash?
While you do want to give your face a good cleaning, you don't want to overly strip the skin of essential oils or cause dryness, notes Zeichner. After washing, he recommends hydrating your skin with a light moisturizer.
Should I wash my face before a facial?
Yes, you should wash your face before the facial experience.
The goal is to arrive at the facial appointment in your most hygienic state. You will get the best results from your facial when your face is clean, fresh, and prepped.
Do I exfoliate or cleanse first?
By cleansing first you help removing dirt, sweat and make up off skin's surface. You are then working with a clean base to then exfoliate away dead skin cells that can pile up on skin's surface. Exfoliating can soften your skin and allows a fresh layer of skin cells to emerge as dead skin cells are washed away.
Why does my skin look better when I don't wash it?
You may be using unnecessary products. "Some people may just not be genetically predisposed to breakouts or may produce less [oil],” says Batra. If that sounds like you, you may actually find your skin looks better when you ditch your cleanser.
Should you wash your face with cold or warm?
Lukewarm water is advisable to wash your face with, but cold water has its benefits, too. Cold water tightens the appearance of your skin, so it may make you look renewed and refreshed. It also helps boost your circulation, which can help give your skin a healthier appearance, albeit temporarily.
Can I wash my face with water only?
By cleansing with water only, you're less likely to over-strip the skin's natural oil and therefore reduce the risk of damaging your skin barrier. Cleansing your face with water only not only reduces the oil-stripping action but also the physical rubbing action, which would reduce irritation to the skin.
Is it okay to wash your face once a day?
Here's how often you should be washing your face and what to do if you overdo it. How often should you wash your face? No matter your skin type, you want to wash your face at least once a day — in the evening to remove any dirt, makeup, oil, and grime that's built up on your skin throughout the day.
Do I need to wash my face in the morning and at night?
Generally, dermatologists and estheticians recommend washing your face both morning and night, but it's also important to take your skin type into consideration as well as lifestyle factors.
How do I start a skin care routine for beginners?
Keep it simple. For beginners, we recommend starting with a basic three step routine—cleanse, moisturize, and apply sunscreen. Of course, this can be modified, and products can be added depending on your individual skincare needs. For example, if you're struggling with acne, you may consider adding a spot treatment.
Are toners necessary?
"Toners are most helpful and necessary for people with oily or acne-prone skin, or for people who want extra cleansing after wearing makeup or other heavy skin products such as sunscreen," she said. If you're wondering what else face toner does for your skin, King outlined some additional benefits: It shrinks pores.