Updated Jan 6, 2026
Washing your face is something you've been doing every day for like, forever. But how well are you really cleansing your skin? There's more to it than just lather and rinse. With the recent launch of our Rael Beauty Oil to Foam Gentle Cleanser, we were intrigued to learn the best way to get our skin squeaky clean, straight from a pro. Keep reading to learn some face washing dos and don'ts from a dermatologist.
Why Proper Face Washing Matters
Before diving into the how, it’s worth understanding the why. Washing your face the right way does more than just remove dirt—it helps clear excess oil, sweat, makeup, sunscreen, and environmental pollutants that can clog pores and contribute to breakouts or dull-looking skin. Proper cleansing also preps your skin so serums, moisturizers, and treatments absorb better.
How to Wash Your Face Properly?
Learning how to wash your face the right way makes all the difference for clear, healthy-looking skin. Here are the key steps to follow.
1. Wash your face morning and night
We hate to break it to you but washing your face once a day won't cut it. To keep your skin looking its best, board-certified dermatologist, Dr. Adebola Dele-Michael recommends washing your face twice a day—once in the morning and once at night. Also, make sure your hands are clean before you begin. You don't want to transfer any bacteria and dirt onto your skin.
2. Use a gentle cleanser
A gentle cleanser is key for effective face washing. It is important to know how to choose and how to use a cleanser correctly. Dr. Dele-Michael says harsh soaps and abrasive loofahs can dry and irritate the skin. Specifically, she recommends looking for cleansers that contain antioxidants, which help defend against environmental stressors that contribute to visible signs of aging.. When applying, gently massage the cleanser onto damp skin in small, circular motions. This helps clean without tugging or stressing the skin.
Rael's exfoliating cleanser, for example, not only leaves your skin feeling clean and refreshed; it contains Wintergreen extract, which helps lift debris and sebum without drying your skin.
Not sure if your cleanser is too rough on your skin? Notice if your face feels tight and dry after washing it or throughout the day. Dr. Dele-Michael says this is an indicator that your cleanser is too harsh and can potentially damage your skin.
3. Rinse with lukewarm water
"Cold water doesn't effectively remove all of the dirt and residue from your face as many would think," Dr. Dele-Michael says. "[And,]hot water can disrupt the skin barrier and lead to dryness." So, lukewarm water is definitely the best option to washing your face. It’ll help remove surface buildup without over-drying your skin.
4. Wash for at least 45-60 seconds
How much time you spend over the sink lathering up your skin will depend on how dirty your skin is. If, for example, you're not wearing any makeup and need a quick wash, Dr. Dele-Michael says washing your face for 45-60 seconds should do the trick.
If you're wearing heavy makeup, however, you'll likely need to wash for a little bit longer to get it all off. You can also double cleanse, which is a fancy wash of saying you lather, rinse, and repeat, but only if you're using a gentle cleanser.
5. Use a soft face towel to dry your skin
Once your face is all nice and clean, it's time to dry it. Since the skin on your face is more sensitive than the skin on the rest of your body, using a regular body towel isn't a good idea. "Normal towels for the body are a little tougher and harder, and using that on the face can scratch and damage the skin," Dr. Dele-Michael says. Instead, dab your skin with a soft towel, preferably one that's made specifically for your face. And voila! You've got clean skin.
6. Don’t skip post-cleanse skincare
Cleansing is just the first step—what you do afterward makes a big difference.
- Apply toner: Once your face is clean, start with a toner to refresh your skin and prep it for the rest of your routine.
- Layer on serums: Use serums that target your skin concerns, whether that is brightening, hydration, or anti-aging.
- Lock it in with moisturizer: Finish with a moisturizer to seal in hydration and support your skin barrier.
Pro tip: Apply your products while your skin is still slightly damp. This helps them absorb more effectively and boosts the overall benefits of your routine.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Washing Your Face
Even if you have been washing your face for years, small habits can get in the way of healthy skin. Here are a few to watch out for (and what to do instead):
- Over-washingCleansing more than twice a day can strip away your skin’s natural oils and leave it feeling dry or irritated.What to do instead: Stick to washing in the morning and at night, plus after heavy sweating or workouts.
- Using the wrong cleanserHarsh soaps or formulas that are not designed for your skin type can throw off your skin’s balance and weaken its protective barrier.What to do instead: Choose a gentle, hydrating cleanser that matches your skin’s needs.
- Scrubbing too hardRubbing your face aggressively does not make it cleaner. Instead, it can cause redness, sensitivity, and irritation.What to do instead: Use your fingertips to massage the cleanser in gentle, circular motions for about a minute.
- Skipping post-cleanse careIf you do not follow up with toner, serum, or moisturizer, your skin can feel tight and dry. Locking in hydration right after cleansing helps keep your skin smooth and healthy.What to do instead: Apply your skincare products while your skin is still slightly damp to boost absorption and hydration.
Your Skincare Starts Here
A good cleanse is the reset your skin looks forward to every day. Whether you reach for a cleansing balm or a gentle foaming wash, taking the time to wash gently, rinse well, and seal in hydration, your skin gets the fresh start it needs to stay balanced and glowing.
If you want a cleanser that makes this step effortless, check out Rael gentle face cleansers. It melts away makeup, cleanses without stripping, and leaves skin feeling soft and refreshed, so your routine starts on the right note.