
When it comes to removing your makeup and cleansing your face, a common question is whether it is ok to wash your face in the shower. Removing makeup or cleaning your face after a long day is essential to your skincare routine, but there may be consequences to washing your face in the shower. While washing your face in the shower can have perks, there are some factors to consider if you want to scrub from head to toe during your shower.
Opening Your Pores With Steam
One benefit to washing your face in the shower is the steam from warm/hot water. This steam can open up your pores, making it easier to get a deep cleanse and remove built-up dirt and makeup. Opening your pores can be beneficial for those with acne-prone skin or frequently clogged pores. However, there are other ways to produce steam during your skincare routine, without the need to wash your face in the shower.
Hair Care Products Can Clog Pores
Shampoo and conditioner can leave residue on your skin, leading to clogged pores if not removed during your skincare routine. After you wash your hair, you should be sure to rinse thoroughly, use a cloth along your hairline, or wash your face after the shower to remove this residue. The heavy ingredients in shampoo and conditioner that are left to sit on the skin can clog your pores, resulting in acne or irritation along the forehead or sides of the face.
Turn Down The Temperature If You Wash In The Shower
One of the major concerns of washing your face in the shower is extreme water temperatures. Hot water can strip your skin of natural oils needed to keep your moisture barrier. Hot, scorching water may not seem that hot against your other skin, but the skin on your face is more sensitive. Stripping the skin of oils can lead to dryness and irritation. If you choose to wash your face in the shower, turn down the temperature at the end of your shower to protect your skin. Find a lukewarm temperature to rinse your face and lift the built-up from your pores.
Execute The Rest Of Your Skincare Routine Post-Shower
Once your pores are open from the steam of the shower, your skin is in the prime condition for other serums and moisturizers. Post-shower, you can apply the rest of your skincare routine and replenish any moisture that was removed during the cleanse. Applying moisture after your shower will help to keep your skin looking supple and hydrated.
There Is No Right Answer
Everyone’s skin is different, so there is no right answer when it comes to washing or cleansing your face in the shower. If you are noticing irritation, burns, or other damage, you should stop washing your face in the shower. Washing the face with lukewarm water and flushing with cooler water to reduce redness is the best way to wash your face in the shower. If you are looking to do a deep cleanse, washing in the shower or with a steam machine is recommended for optimal results. Opening up those pores and allowing all the dirt and buildup to release from the skin will help your skin feel and look its best.

The Best Way To Wash Your Face
No matter if you wash your face in the shower or in the sink, there are some things you should keep in mind to ensure proper skin health. The first step is to find the right cleanser, one that is non-abrasive and doesn’t contain alcohol. Alcohol in a cleanser can cause extreme dryness, leading to further irritation and breakouts.
Using lukewarm water and an appropriate cleanser will help remove pollutants and debris from your pores, leaving the skin looking brighter and feeling lighter. Apply the cleanser with your fingertips rather than a cloth or scrubber, as this could remove natural oils.
When you rinse the cleanser from your face, using lukewarm water or cool water will reduce redness. Pat, don’t rub your face dry with a soft towel to remove water and any leftover product.
The last step is to apply moisturizer to your skin, especially if it is dry or itchy. Putting some moisture back into the skin will help prevent breakouts or premature aging.
Learning About Your Skin From The Skin Institute
If you want to learn more about your skin and how to care for it, you should work with an esthetician. The Skin Institute trains some of the best estheticians in the state of Utah, allowing them to work in many different medical and spa settings. Working with a licensed esthetician is the best way to keep your skin healthy, free of damage, and prevent breakouts.
Our teachers help provide state-of-the-art instruction for those wanting to be estheticians. We offer basic and master esthetician courses that are taught by some of the best in the industry. The Skin Institute can help you achieve your career dreams with hands-on training. Reach out to us to join our next cohort!