When it comes to our skin care, one of the most basic and important steps is washing our face. However, even this seemingly simple task can be done improperly.

In fact, several common face washing mistakes can harm our skin and lead to various issues such as breakouts, dryness, and premature aging.

To ensure that our skin stays healthy and glowing, let’s take a closer look at these common face washing mistakes and learn how to avoid them:.

1. Not Washing Your Hands First

Before touching your face, make sure your hands are clean. Oils, dirt, and bacteria can accumulate on our hands and transfer to our face during washing, which can lead to clogged pores and breakouts.

To avoid this, always wash your hands with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds before cleansing your face.

2. Using Water That is Too Hot/Cold

Extreme temperatures can damage the skin’s protective barrier and cause dryness and irritation. Therefore, it is important to use lukewarm water when washing your face.

This will effectively remove dirt and impurities without causing any harm to your skin.

3. Over-washing

While it may be tempting to wash our face multiple times a day to keep it clean and fresh, over-washing can actually do more harm than good. Excessive cleansing can strip the skin’s natural oils, leading to dryness and irritation.

Stick to washing your face twice a day- in the morning and before bed.

4. Using the Wrong Cleanser

Not all cleansers are created equal, and what works for one person may not work for another. Therefore, it is important to choose a cleanser that is suitable for your skin type.

For example, if you have oily skin, look for a foaming or gel cleanser that can effectively remove excess oil. If you have dry skin, opt for a cream or lotion cleanser that can hydrate and nourish your skin.

5. Scrubbing Too Hard

Many of us believe that the harder we scrub our face, the cleaner it will be. This is a myth that can cause more harm than good. Scrubbing your face too hard can damage your skin’s protective barrier and cause irritation and redness.

Instead, use gentle circular motions with your fingertips to massage your cleanser onto your face for a thorough and gentle cleanse.

6. Not Rinsing Properly

Leaving traces of cleanser or water on your face can cause irritation and dryness. Make sure to rinse your face thoroughly with lukewarm water, ensuring that all traces of your cleanser and impurities are removed.

7. Rubbing Your Face With A Towel

After washing your face, you may be tempted to rub your face dry with a towel. However, this can cause friction and irritation, leading to redness and inflammation.

Instead, gently pat your face dry with a clean, soft towel or cloth, allowing your skin to naturally absorb the excess water.

8. Skipping Moisturizer

Many people skip moisturizer after washing their face, thinking that it will make their skin oily. However, skipping moisturizer can actually cause dryness and irritation, as it helps to lock in moisture and keep your skin hydrated.

Choose a moisturizer that is suitable for your skin type and apply it after washing your face.

9. Using Dirty Makeup Brushes

Our makeup brushes can quickly accumulate dirt, oil, and bacteria, which can transfer to our face during application. To avoid this, make sure to regularly clean your makeup brushes and replace them every few months.

Sharing skincare products can introduce bacteria and lead to breakouts and infections. Therefore, it is important to avoid sharing your skincare products with others.

By avoiding these common face washing mistakes, you can improve the health and appearance of your skin and achieve a clear and radiant complexion.