How to wash your face to have clean and healthy skin, according to experts

Washing your face seems like a simple job. However, the reality shows that many people are doing it the wrong way, causing skin damage.

What could be simpler than washing your face, right? Well, you might be surprised at how often people get it wrong - and end up irritating their skin in this (face-washing) process.

In fact, "there are a lot of misconceptions about people's face washing ," Dr. Shari Lipner, associate professor of clinical dermatology at Weill Cornell Medical Center (USA) told TODAY . "And I think some people actually abuse it in a way that can harm the skin ," she says.

Cleansing your face is a necessary daily step in your skin care routine, but it's important that you do it right and use the right products for your skin. Here's how to properly wash your face, according to experts.

Wash your face often

Our skin changes every few weeks, says Dr. Emily Newsom, a dermatologist at UCLA Health.

Your skin cells are shedding all the time, she explains, which can clog pores. That, combined with sweat, environmental exposure, makeup and skin care products can all leave your skin dirty. It can also worsen skin conditions, like acne.

"In our daily lives, we are exposed to dirt and disease-causing bacteria on our face," explains Lipner . "So it's important to wash your face regularly," explains Lipner .

For many people, that means washing their face once in the morning and once in the evening, experts have previously explained. But for some people (especially those with dry skin), just once a day — usually in the evening — is enough, Lipner says.

But you should also wash your face after sweating, she adds.

But don't wash your face too often

You should wash your face at least once a day, but be careful not to overdo it accidentally.

"If you wash your face too much, you strip away natural oils and fats, which can actually allow bacteria to enter the skin causing inflammation and infection," Lipner explains .

The American Academy of Dermatology recommends that you wash your face no more than twice a day and after sweating. If you notice that washing your face regularly leaves your skin dry, inflamed, or tight, that's a sign that you need to limit how often you wash your face.

Use gentle, fragrance-free cleansers

Simplicity is always important. Most people should choose a gentle, fragrance-free and alcohol-free cleanser to wash their face, says Lipner.

In the past, dermatologists may also recommend that people with acne or other skin conditions use medicated cleansers, like those containing benzoyl peroxide or acids, experts say. salicylic. When using those products, you can even leave them on your face for a few minutes to get the most out of them, says Newsom. (But be aware that this can be irritating, so only do it if your skin isn't too sensitive/fine with that).

Some people may want to use scrubs to wash their face, but keep in mind that they're not your regular daily cleansers that you should opt for, Newsom says. "It feels like you're getting a deep cleanse, but exfoliating can have an overly abrasive effect (if used too often) . "

Wash your face with cool or lukewarm water

First, you need to wet your face to "activate" (the effect of) the cleanser. And, to do so, you should use warm water — not hot water, says Lipner.

"If you use water that's too hot, it can wash away the oils on your skin, which can damage the skin barrier and leave you vulnerable to bacteria and irritation," she explains . , you can use cold water if you want. I don't think most people will find it too comfortable but it would be nice to use it if that's what you like . "

Apply product with fingertips

Use your fingertips to apply a gentle cleanser, says Lipner, to help it penetrate the skin. You should start at the top of your face with your forehead and work your way down to your nose and cheeks (avoiding your eyes), then to your chin.

"You should use circular motions," says Lipner, "and don't rub your skin because rubbing can irritate it . "

Note, Newsom recommends not using a motorized washer to clean leather. "If you're going to do that, it's probably better to limit it to once a week because it can do more harm than good (if used regularly)."

Rinse face with water and pat dry

When you're done rinsing, use water to rinse the product off your face. Again, you should use lukewarm water for this step.

Then, pat the skin dry with a soft and clean towel, experts advise.

"If you rub your skin, it causes irritation," says Lipner. "So just pat it with a soft towel so it doesn't irritate the skin . "

Follow up with moisturizer

Once your skin is cleansed, go ahead and complete the rest of your skincare routine. Be sure to use moisturizer and sunscreen daily in the morning.