Is it necessary to wash my face every night?

Washing your face before going to bed every night is just as important as brushing your teeth.

It's not just about removing makeup, preventing wrinkles, or washing away the remnants of a hectic workday.

Two dermatologists were consulted by Planet Chronicle Digital to provide the truth about why face-washing should be included in a bedtime to-do list.

Here's a deep dive.

Why is washing your face so important?

You probably don't notice the accumulation of substances on your face when you gaze into the mirror.

According to Dr. Anne Chapas, a board-certified dermatologist and founder of UnionDerm in New York City, your face collects dirt, bacteria, pollutants, and other impurities throughout the day from the environment.

"Cleansing your face prior to sleep can eliminate impurities, preventing them from accumulating in your pores and potentially causing acne or other skin problems."

The expert added that allowing your skin to breathe during sleep promotes cell turnover and renewal.

Nightly face washing also promotes skin regeneration.

""Facilitating the natural regeneration process during sleep by cleansing before bed leads to a healthier and more vibrant complexion," Chapas stated."

Using skincare products is more effective when you wash your face before going to bed.

Washing your skin at the end of the day can enhance the effectiveness of your nighttime skincare routine, according to Chapas.

Washing your face also removes environmental toxins.

Environmental pollutants and toxins affect the skin throughout the day, particularly in densely populated metropolitan areas, as per Chapas.

She stated that washing your face before bedtime removes harmful substances from your skin, decreasing the likelihood of irritation and damage in the long run.

Women may place a greater emphasis on face-washing due to their frequent use of cosmetics, according to Chapas.

The doctor advised that men with significant facial hair should pay extra attention to cleansing the skin beneath their beard or mustache to prevent oil and bacteria buildup.

Tips for effective face-washing

Experts agree that committing to washing your face every night doesn't require expensive or complicated products or routines.

"I strongly support the use of drug store facial cleansers and moisturizers," said Dr. Lauren Fine, a board-certified dermatologist at Fine Dermatology in Chicago, Illinois, to Planet Chronicle Digital.

"Sticking with a gentle cleanser without other active ingredients is a cost-effective option for skincare ingredients that can be expensive."

It is possible to over-wash your face, Fine said.

One of the biggest mistakes people make is overusing skincare products, according to her.

"Fine advised against recommending cleansers with "scrubbing" particles, as they are considered a form of mechanical exfoliate that can be too abrasive and irritating, even for oily skin."

She suggests using milder methods for exfoliating the skin without employing a facial scrub.

Excessive face washing can harm delicate skin and disrupt its natural balance, as agreed upon by Chapas.

The lipid barrier, composed of oils, serves as a protective shield for your skin, as she explained to Planet Chronicle Digital.

"Over-washing your face with harsh cleansers can cause your skin to lose its natural oils, resulting in excessive oil production, dryness, and irritation."

It's crucial to select skincare products that are specifically formulated to tackle specific skin concerns, such as acne or oiliness, without being excessively harsh, she advised.

Following up with a moisturizer is recommended after washing your face, as suggested by Chapas and Fine.

If you have any concerns about skincare or questions about a specific product, it's best to consult with a board-certified dermatologist who can offer personalized advice.

For more Health articles, visit planetchronicle.net/health.