Face washing is a fundamental and crucial step in daily skincare. Dr. Nguyen Thi Ngoc Yen, Head of the Dermatology Department at Tam Anh General Hospital Hanoi, states that incorrect face washing can result in weak, dull, irritated, or persistent acne. Avoiding common mistakes helps cleansers effectively protect skin, keeping it healthy, smooth, and better able to absorb nutrients from subsequent skincare steps.

Choosing an unsuitable cleanser

Each skin type requires a different cleansing formula. Individuals with dry skin who use strong foaming cleansers with many detergents can strip the skin of its natural oils, leading to flakiness and irritation. Conversely, those with oily skin who opt for overly gentle products may not adequately remove sebum, which can easily clog pores and cause acne.

According to Dr. Ngoc Yen, cleansers for oily skin should contain sebum-controlling ingredients such as salicylic acid, zinc pca, or clay. Dry skin benefits from cleansers with ceramide, hyaluronic acid, or glycerin, which help hydrate and restore the skin's protective barrier. Sensitive skin is best suited for mild cleansers free of fragrances, alcohol, and sulfates, with gentle ingredients like aloe vera, green tea, or glycerin.

Washing too many times a day

Many believe that washing their face more frequently leads to cleaner skin and fewer breakouts. However, washing too often can be counterproductive. Each wash can affect the skin's natural moisture barrier, causing dehydration and stimulating the sebaceous glands to produce more oil to compensate, leading to increased oiliness. The number of times one should wash their face daily depends on their skin condition and environmental exposure.

It is generally recommended to wash your face in the morning after waking up and after exposure to dirt or returning from outdoors. Individuals with very oily skin or those who engage in frequent physical activity may add one more wash midday.

Water too hot or too cold

Washing your face with hot water is thought to open pores for a deeper clean. However, hot water dehydrates skin, weakens its natural protective barrier, and can cause redness and stinging, especially for sensitive skin. The best approach is to use cool or lukewarm water for gentle cleansing, avoiding thermal shock to the skin. After washing, pat your face dry with a soft towel; avoid harsh rubbing to prevent micro-damage to the skin's surface.

Dr. Yen advises a woman. Photo: Hospital provided

Not lathering when washing

When a cleanser is not adequately lathered, its active cleansing agents come into direct contact with the skin in a concentrated form, which can easily cause irritation, particularly for sensitive skin. Lathering first not only reduces friction but also helps the product achieve a deeper clean.

For gel or cream cleansers, gently rub a small amount between your palms with a little water to create a lather before applying. If using a low-foam product, massage gently in circular motions for 30-60 seconds to effectively cleanse without abrading the skin.

Not removing makeup

Most cleansers cannot completely remove oil, fine dust, and makeup residue deeply embedded in pores. Skipping the makeup removal step makes skin prone to clogging, which over time can lead to blackheads, inflammatory acne, or dullness.

Even without makeup, if you use sunscreen daily, you should still remove it before using a cleanser. This double cleansing principle ensures clean skin without feeling dry or tight. Those with oily, acne-prone, or sensitive skin should choose water-based makeup removers.

Washing too quickly or too long

Washing too quickly (under 15 seconds) means the skin is not thoroughly cleaned, leaving dirt and sebum behind. Conversely, washing for too long or massaging too harshly can damage the epidermis, making skin thinner, more easily irritated, and more sensitive to sunlight.

The ideal time for one face wash is approximately 30-60 seconds. Focus on cleansing the T-zone (forehead, nose, chin), where oil is easily secreted, and be gentler on the cheeks and neck. After washing, gently pat with cold water or use a cool, damp cloth to help tighten pores.

Not moisturizing after washing

After washing, skin easily loses water as its protective lipid barrier is temporarily rinsed away. Without immediate rehydration, skin quickly dries, produces more oil, and is prone to early wrinkles. You should use a toner or facial mist within one minute after washing, then apply a suitable moisturizer to lock in hydration, maintain elasticity, and balance the skin.

Not cleaning face washing tools

Unsanitized face towels, sponges, or brushes easily accumulate bacteria, dirt, and dead skin cells, which can cause acne to recur. You should wash face towels daily and air dry them in a well-ventilated area. If using a brush or cleansing device, clean it at least one to two times each week, and replace brush heads every two to three months.

Trinh Mai