How Often Should You Wash Your Face? (Dermatologist-Backed Answer)

It's one of the most argued-about basics in skincare. Some people swear by washing their face every time it feels the slightest bit oily. Others barely touch a cleanser and rely on water alone. So, how many times a day should you wash your face, really?

We looked at what board-certified dermatologists actually recommend, and the answer is more consistent than you'd expect. Here's the real, dermatologist-backed guidance, plus how to properly wash your face so you're not undoing the benefits with bad technique.

The Dermatologist-Backed Answer

Across multiple dermatologists and the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), the consensus is clear: wash your face twice a day, once in the morning and once at night. This isn't an arbitrary number. Overnight, your skin accumulates sweat and the residue of any creams or serums applied before bed, which is why a morning cleanse matters. During the day, your skin collects dirt, oil, pollution, sunscreen, and makeup, which is why washing before bed is considered the non-negotiable one if you only manage a single wash.

If you had to choose only one time to wash your face, nighttime wins. Removing the day's buildup before bed preps your skin to properly absorb your night-time skincare routine and reduces the risk of clogged pores overnight.

How Often to Wash Your Face by Skin Type

• Oily or acne-prone skin: Twice a day is essential, and a third wash after heavy sweating or a workout can help. That said, research shows overwashing can backfire; one study found that washing three times a day actually increased acne lesions compared to washing once or twice.
• Dry or sensitive skin: You can still wash twice daily, but consider a gentle, water-only rinse in the morning and save your cleanser for the night wash, or use a hydrating, hypoallergenic formula both times.
• Combination skin: Twice daily with a gentle, well-balanced cleanser works for most people. If your cheeks feel tight or dry afterward, you may need a richer moisturizer or a gentler formula.
• After sweating or exercise: Wash as soon as reasonably possible. Sweat sitting on skin, especially under a cap or helmet, can irritate skin and clog pores.

How to Properly Wash Your Face

Frequency is only half the equation; technique matters just as much. Here's how to properly wash your face, step by step:

• Start with lukewarm water. Hot water strips natural oils and can irritate skin; cold water won't help cleanser work effectively.
• Use a gentle, skin-type-appropriate cleanser. Avoid harsh soaps or anything that leaves skin feeling tight and squeaky-clean; that's a sign your barrier has been stripped.
• Massage gently with your fingertips. Use light, circular motions; never scrub aggressively, even for oily or acne-prone skin.
• Spend 30-60 seconds cleansing. This is enough time to properly emulsify oils and lift dirt without over-scrubbing. You don't need a strict 60-second timer; just avoid rinsing off within a few seconds of application.
• Double cleanse if wearing makeup or sunscreen. An oil-based cleanser first, followed by your regular water-based cleanser, ensures thorough removal without over-stripping skin.
• Rinse thoroughly. Leftover cleanser residue can clog pores and cause irritation over time.
• Pat dry, don't rub. Use a clean, soft towel and pat gently to avoid unnecessary friction on the skin.
• Moisturize immediately after. Applying moisturizer while skin is still slightly damp helps lock in hydration.

Signs You're Over-Washing Your Face

• Skin feels tight, dry, or squeaky-clean immediately after washing
• Increased redness, flaking, or sensitivity
• Oily skin that seems to get oilier despite frequent washing (a rebound effect as skin overproduces oil to compensate)
• Breakouts that worsen rather than improve
• Stinging or discomfort when applying other skincare products afterward

Quick Reference: Face Washing Frequency

Choosing the Right Cleanser for Your Routine

How often you wash matters less if you're using the wrong formula. New69BC's Japanese Sake + Rice Water Angelic Beauty Face Wash is a gentle, non-stripping option suited to twice-daily use across most skin types, cleansing thoroughly without disrupting the skin barrier. Pair it with a lightweight moisturizer immediately after washing to lock in hydration and keep your skin barrier supported between washes.

Explore New69BC's full range of gentle, vegan cleansers and moisturizers here: New69BC skincare collection.

The Bottom Line

For most people, the dermatologist-backed answer is simple: wash your face twice a day, morning and night, with a gentle cleanser and a light touch. How you wash matters just as much as how often: 30-60 seconds of gentle massaging, lukewarm water, and a proper moisturizer afterward will do more for your skin than an aggressive multi-wash routine ever could. When in doubt, let your skin's response guide you rather than a fixed rule.

Frequently Asked Questions

Disclaimer: This article is intended for educational purposes and does not replace professional medical advice.