How to Wash Your Face for Clearer, Healthier Skin

Plus six tips to make it easier.

- Jenn Sinrich & Sarah Jacoby

If you’ve ever wondered how to wash your face the right way, you’re not alone. I mean, how hard could it be? Just splash some water on your face, rub in a little cleanser and rinse, right? Well, yes, it can be that simple for some people. But figuring out how to properly wash your face for your specific skin type takes a little more work than that.

But it’s also worth the effort to get it right. Cleansing your face washes away dirt, dead skin cells, makeup, and anything else that might clog your pores or cause a general dullness. And, depending on the type of cleanser you use, it could also help treat specific skin conditions, such as acne. “Proper facial cleansing prevents acne breakouts, can improve skin health, and may even reduce skin inflammation,” says Joshua Zeichner, director of cosmetic and clinical research in dermatology at Mount Sinai Hospital in the US.

But it’s not only how you wash your face that makes the difference, but also when, how often, and what type of face wash you use. Are you putting your scrubbing to good use? Here are some easy ways to make sure you’re cleansing properly – and make your cleansing routine even more effective. Learn them now, so you’ll know how to wash your face the right way every time.

1 At the bare minimum, wash your face every night.

Washing your face at night is a hard-and-fast rule when it comes to caring for your skin, and it holds true even if you don’t wear makeup. “During the day, natural oils and sweat accumulate on the skin,” Dr. Zeichner says. “We’re exposed to the environment, which means that dirt and pollution build up on the outer layer of our skin.” Not removing this dirt and gunk at the end of the day can cause skin irritation, inflammation, and acne breakouts.