This is the Argument Against Washing Your Face in the Shower

It’s safe to say that there just aren’t enough hours in the day, which is why we’re huge fans of multi-tasking products and time-saving beauty hacks. When it comes to cleansing, you may be thinking, “Why not wash your face in the shower?” While we’re all about saving a few extra minutes when you can, this is one skin care trend you may want to pass on. Curious as to why you shouldn’t wash your face in the shower? Below, we’re sharing the argument against washing your face in the shower, as well as some other common face-washing mistakes to avoid.

WHY SHOULDN’T YOU WASH YOUR FACE IN THE SHOWER?

So, is there really a reason why you shouldn't wash your face in the shower? Well, as convenient and clever as the idea may seem, you’re likely better off washing your face and body separately. Here’s why.

REASON #1: THE WATER IS LIKELY TOO HOT

We’ll be the first ones to admit we love taking a hot shower to relax after a long day. And while Mayo Clinic recommends not taking long, hot baths as they can remove oils from your skin, we’re betting you sometimes indulge in hot showers. We won’t tell, a steamy shower can be one of life’s small pleasures when it’s chilly outside! However, if you do take hotter showers, you really won’t want to wash your face while you’re bathing. The reason being, the water will be way too hot for your face. Just think about it: The skin on your face is usually more sensitive than the skin on your body. The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) suggests using lukewarm water to cleanse your face to keep your face looking healthy, so keep that in mind if you don’t shower in lukewarm water.

REASON #2: TO AVOID USING YOUR CLEANSER AS A BODY WASH

If you’re washing your face in the shower, chances are your cleanser will end up running off your face and onto your body. While this isn’t necessarily a bad thing, there’s a chance you won’t want your facial cleanser to get on your body—after all, that’s not where it’s meant to be!

REASON #3: TO REMOVE TRACES OF OTHER PRODUCTS

While showering, your face can become exposed to other beauty products that may not be meant to get on your delicate skin. Think shampoo and conditioner. You can certainly try to avoid having these hair care products run across your face when rinsing your mane, but washing your face post-shower is a surefire way to remove all traces of product residue that have the potential to affect your complexion.

HOW TO WASH YOUR FACE IN THE SHOWER—THE RIGHT WAY

Say you really don’t want to give up cleansing your face in the shower—what can you do? Well, there are a few ways you can make washing your face in the shower less problematic. First, save washing your face for your second to last step, meaning don’t try to get clean while your hair mask is in. Instead, wash out all of your hair product before reaching for your cleanser. While you’re at it, turn down the water temperature so that it’s lukewarm. Finally, after you’ve washed your face, rinse off your body—and that’s your last step.

4 OTHER COMMON FACE-WASHING MISTAKES TO AVOID

Now that you know the reasons it's recommended not to wash your face in the shower, you may be curious about other face-washing mistakes you could be making—there are definitely a few! Here are four common face-washing mistakes to avoid.

FACE WASH MISTAKE #1: USING A CLEANSER THAT CONTAINS ALCOHOL

When searching for a cleanser, be sure to reach for one with a gentle formula. The AAD suggests using a non-abrasive cleanser that does not contain alcohol. Need a recommendation? Try the L’Oréal Paris Micellar Cleansing Water Complete Cleanser Waterproof - All Skin Types, which has a no-rinse formula that removes all traces of makeup—even waterproof mascara.

FACE WASH MISTAKE #2: NOT USING A GENTLE HAND

Are you being gentle when washing your face? According to the AAD, it’s important to resist the temptation to scrub your skin because scrubbing can lead to irritation. Use gentle motions when cleansing and you’ll be much better off.

Editor’s note: Of course, this doesn’t mean you can’t exfoliate—you just have to be gentle! Here’s How to Exfoliate from Head to Toe for the lowdown on that.

FACE WASH MISTAKE #3: SKIPPING OUT ON MOISTURIZER

Always follow up with a moisturizer after cleansing in order to replenish your complexion with hydration. Our suggestion? Try using a water-based moisturizer, taking your pick from the L’Oréal Paris Hydra Genius Daily Liquid Care for Normal/Oily Skin, L’Oréal Paris Hydra Genius Daily Liquid Care for Normal/Dry Skin, and L’Oréal Paris Hydra Genius Daily Liquid Care for Extra Dry Skin.

FACE WASH MISTAKE #4: OVER-WASHING

Our last common face-washing mistake? Over-washing! Believe it or not, you can actually wash your face too frequently. The AAD states that you should limit washing your face to once in the morning and once at night, as well as after sweating heavily.

Now that you’re a face-washing pro, let’s brush up on your shower regimen. Here’s How to Use Shower Gel and Body Wash.