For many, mornings start not with coffee but with a hot shower. While routines vary—some wash their hair first, others focus on body care, and some begin with their face—dermatologists advise against washing your face in the shower. Surprisingly, this habit could be affecting your skin’s health.
Reasons to Avoid Washing Your Face in the Shower
1. The Water is Often Too Hot
Most people prefer hot showers. However, while you might use warm water at the sink, shower water tends to be hotter. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends washing your face with lukewarm water only. Hot water can dry out the skin and damage its protective barrier, leaving it vulnerable to redness and irritation.
What to Do: If you can’t resist washing your face in the shower, make sure to lower the water temperature beforehand to avoid unnecessary drying.
2. Strong Water Pressure is Harmful to Facial Skin
While washing at the sink, you likely scoop water with your hands, but in the shower, the water pressure is often much stronger. This intense stream can stretch and damage the delicate skin on your face.
What to Do: Keep your face away from the direct spray of the showerhead. Use your hands or a facial sponge instead to gently cleanse your face.
3. Spending Too Much Time in the Shower
The American Academy of Dermatology suggests that showers should last between 5 and 10 minutes. Extended exposure to water can strip away essential lipids that keep your skin moisturized. The longer you stay in the shower, the more you dehydrate your skin.
What to Do: Set a timer to keep your showers brief. Exiting the shower promptly will help your skin retain its natural moisture.
4. Shampoo and Conditioner Residues Can Irritate Facial Skin
As you wash your hair, shampoo and conditioner often run down your face, leaving residue that can irritate your skin. These hair products typically have a pH level that’s too high for the face, leading to dryness and sensitivity.
What to Do: Opt for sulfate-free, paraben-free shampoos, and thoroughly rinse any product off your face afterward.
Expert Insights on Shower Habits and Facial Skin Health
According to dermatologist Justin Hextall, hot water pressure can cause “invisible trauma” to the skin, potentially leading to broken capillaries over time. Using a strong water stream on your face can overstimulate sensitive skin, leading to redness and dryness.
Additionally, body scrubbers or shower brushes harbor bacteria that may cause irritation or breakouts on the face. Stick to facial-specific sponges or brushes designed for delicate skin to avoid unnecessary bacterial exposure.
In Summary
Simple adjustments to your shower routine can protect your skin from dryness, irritation, and premature aging. Small changes now can prevent more costly skincare issues down the road, helping you maintain healthy, radiant skin.