How Often Should I Wash My Face? (And What Happens If You Overdo It)

May 31, 2025By Skin Junkies Studio

How Often Should I Wash My Face? (And What Happens If You Overdo It)

Let’s get straight to it—yes, you should be washing your face twice a day: once in the morning and again at night. But as always, your skin type and lifestyle matter too. Here’s what the science says, and what we at Skin Junkies Studio recommend for a truly clean (but not stripped) face.

The Magic Number: Twice a Day

According to the American Academy of Dermatology, most people benefit from cleansing once in the morning and once before bed. Nighttime cleansing is especially critical—it removes the day’s buildup of oil, makeup, sweat, and pollutants that can clog pores and cause breakouts.

Morning cleansing helps refresh the skin, remove sweat and oil produced overnight, and prep your skin to better absorb products like serums or SPF.

Should You Wash After a Workout?

Yes, always. Post-sweat sessions can trap oil and bacteria in pores if not removed quickly. Even a rinse with water and a gentle cleanser can prevent breakouts.

What Happens If You Wash Too Often?

Overwashing—more than 2–3 times a day—can strip your skin of its natural oils, weaken your barrier, and leave you more vulnerable to dryness, sensitivity, and inflammation. [NIH: Skin barrier function and cleansing agents]

The Right Cleanser Matters

Harsh cleansers are a big no, especially if you’re dealing with acne, dryness, or irritation. Choose one based on your skin’s needs:

For acne-prone or oily skin: Refining Foam Cleanser – A gentle and velvety foaming cleanser that contains glycolic, lactic and salicylic acids to gently exfoliate and unclog pores without stripping your skin.
For sensitive or dry skin: Barrier Balance Cleanser – Creamy, calming formula that hydrates while cleansing. Milky perfection, can be used every day morning and night.

Tips for Effective Cleansing

Use lukewarm (not hot) water.
Gently massage cleanser into your skin for at least 60 seconds.
Ideally double cleanse in the evening to make sure the buildup, makeup, sweat, bacteria, etc is all removed for a clean foundation for the rest of your routine.
Pat your face dry with a clean towel (no rubbing!). Ideally, a Clean Skin Club Towel to ensure it is free from bacteria and soft on the skin.
Follow with moisturizer—even oily skin needs hydration!

Final Thoughts: It’s All About Balance

Washing your face twice a day—and after workouts—is enough for most people. The key is consistency, gentle technique, and using a cleanser that works for your skin type. And remember, overwashing does more harm than good.