Are You Washing Your Face Correctly? Common Skincare Mistakes and How to Fix Them
By Sophie Galindo
Washing your face seems simple, right? Throw some water on your face with some soap-y cleanser, rub - rinse - done. But it is one of the most common steps that are done incorrectly.
Many people invest in good skincare products, but if cleansing is not done properly, those products cannot work the way they are meant to.
If your skin feels dry, congested, dull, or inconsistent, your face washing routine may be the reason.
The correct way to wash your face is to cleanse for 60 seconds using a gentle cleanser, lukewarm water, and proper technique.
Let’s break down what most people get wrong and how to properly cleanse your skin for healthier, glowing results.
Why Cleansing Matters More Than You Think
Cleansing is the foundation of your skincare routine. It removes dirt, oil, makeup, sunscreen, and environmental buildup from the day.
If the skin is not properly cleansed:
pores can become clogged
breakouts and irritation can increase
skin can look dull or uneven
Healthy, glowing skin always starts with a proper facial cleansing routine.
Common Face Washing Mistakes
1. Not Cleansing Long Enough
Most people wash their face for only a few seconds. This is not enough time to properly break down oil, makeup, and debris.
What to do instead:
Cleanse for at least 60 seconds to allow your cleanser to fully remove buildup and support better skin health.
2. Cleansing in the Shower
I know - most of you just rolled your eyes at me. But cleansing in the shower is not ideal. The water is usually way too hot for your delicate face and you aren’t properly focused on what you are doing. There’s no connection with yourself in the mirror.
What to do instead:
Cleanse at the sink, with lukewarm water! And really look at yourself while you are cleansing. Be intuitive. Take this time to give yourself some self love. Don’t pick yourself apart. Cleanse the bullsh*t off!
3. Using the Wrong Cleanser
Using the wrong cleanser is one of the biggest mistakes in any skincare routine. A cleanser that is too harsh can strip the skin barrier, while one that is too gentle may not clean effectively.
What to do instead:
Choose a cleanser that matches your skin type and supports a healthy skin barrier. If you aren’t oily, you should not be using salicylic. If you are overly dry and compromised, you should not be using glycolic acid every night.
4. Skipping a Night Cleanse
Going to bed without cleansing leaves makeup, oil, and environmental pollutants sitting on the skin overnight.
What to do instead:
Always cleanse your face at night to prevent clogged pores and support overall skin clarity.
4. Not Double Cleansing
One cleanse is often not enough, especially if you wear sunscreen or makeup.
What to do instead:
Use a double cleansing routine. Start with an oil-based cleanser to break down makeup and SPF, followed by a second cleanse to deeply clean the skin - this is your actual cleanse. Don’t skip it.
5. Using Water That Is Too Hot
Hot water can strip natural oils and damage the skin barrier, leading to dryness and irritation. Again - this is why we don’t cleanse in the shower.
What to do instead:
Use lukewarm water to maintain balance and protect your skin.
6. Not Removing Your Cleanser Properly
Most people splash some water on their face and call it a day. That is actually not removing anything and you are still left with a film of junk on your face. You need to manually get in there and remove.
What to do instead:
Use cotton rounds, or Clean Skin Towels or Cellulose Sponges to remove everything fully, using circular motions. Don’t forget to get all the way back to the hairline.
What Proper Cleansing Should Feel Like
After cleansing, your skin should feel:
clean but not tight
soft and balanced
refreshed, not stripped
If your skin feels dry or irritated after washing, your face cleansing routine likely needs adjusting.
Why Professional Skincare Guidance Matters
Cleansing may seem basic, but it plays a major role in how your skin behaves over time. The right cleanser, intuition and techniques can improve everything from breakouts to signs of aging.
At Galindo Aesthetics, I help clients build a personalized simple routine using medical-grade products that support long-term skin health and function.
Because even the best treatments will not deliver results if your foundation is not correct.
Ready to Improve Your Skincare Routine?
If you are unsure whether you are washing your face correctly or using the right products, a professional consultation during a facial can help guide you.
Small changes in your daily routine can lead to clearer, healthier, more radiant skin.
Healthy skin starts with proper cleansing. Don't slack on this part!
