Can You Wash Your Face with Just Water?
Written by
May Willis
Published
Monday, 18 Nov 2024
11 min. read
Why trust us?
1
CottonNow is incubated at the Harvard Innovation Lab.
2
Science & data-based approach to personal care. Numbers don’t lie.
3
With 10+ years struggling with acne & skin conditions, we understand what it’s like.
Have you ever wondered if you can wash your face with just water? It’s a common question, and the answer isn’t as straightforward as you might think. Let’s dive into the benefits and limitations of water-only cleansing and figure out when it’s best to use this method.
Curious if you can wash your face with just water? Learn the benefits and best practices for water-only cleansing in your skincare routine!
I. Morning vs. Evening Cleansing
A. Morning Routine
In the morning, water-only cleansing can actually be quite beneficial. Overnight, your skin doesn’t accumulate much dirt or oil, so a gentle splash of water can be enough to freshen up your face without stripping away essential oils.
Benefits of Morning Water Cleansing:
Preserves Natural Moisture Barrier:
Using only water helps maintain your skin’s natural moisture barrier, which is crucial for keeping your skin hydrated and healthy.
Supports Overnight Repair
Your skin undergoes repair processes while you sleep. Washing with water in the morning helps preserve these benefits.
Lukewarm Water is Ideal
It’s best to use lukewarm water rather than hot or cold. Lukewarm water is gentle on your skin and helps avoid irritation.
B. Evening Routine
When it comes to your evening routine, water alone just won’t cut it. Throughout the day, your skin accumulates makeup, sunscreen, pollutants, and other impurities that water can’t effectively remove.
C. Why You Need a Cleanser at Night:
Removes Makeup and Sunscreen
Water alone cannot dissolve oil-based products like makeup and sunscreen.
Eliminates Pollutants
A proper cleanser helps remove environmental impurities that can clog your pores and cause breakouts.
Cleanses Excess Sebum and Dead Skin Cells
Your skin produces oil and sheds dead skin cells throughout the day. A cleanser is necessary to remove these and keep your skin clean and clear.
Morning water-only cleansing helps preserve natural moisture, while evening routines require a proper cleanser to remove makeup and impurities.
II. The Verdict: Water Only in the Morning, Normal Routine at Night
A. Advantages
Maintains Natural Oils
Water-only washing helps preserve your skin’s natural oils, which are essential for keeping your skin balanced and hydrated.
Gentler on Sensitive Skin
Cleansers can sometimes be harsh, especially for sensitive skin types. Water-only washing is a gentler alternative. Also, over-cleansing can disrupt your skin’s barrier function, leading to dryness and irritation. Water-only washing can help prevent this. This stops your face from getting oily during the day!
Improves Circulation
Using cold water can improve circulation and give your skin a healthy glow.
B. Limitations
Ineffective on Oil-Based Impurities
Water alone cannot effectively dissolve oil-based impurities like makeup and sunscreen. So if you had makeup and sunscreen on during the day, make sure to do a full routine before you go to bed.
May Trap Debris in Pores
Cold water can tighten your pores, potentially trapping debris and leading to breakouts
Sensitive Skin Considerations
If you have sensitive skin, you might want to be cautious with exfoliators and opt for milder options. Always patch-test new products and listen to your skin’s needs.
III. How to Do It Right
A. Expert Recommendations
1
Avoid using hot or cold water, as it can be too harsh on your skin. Lukewarm water is the best option.
2
Consider water-only washing in the mornings when your skin is relatively clean.
3
Always follow up with an appropriate moisturizer to keep your skin hydrated.
4
In the evening, use a gentle cleanser to remove makeup, sunscreen, and daily buildup.
Conclusion
So, can you wash your face with just water? The answer is yes, but with some caveats. Water-only washing can be beneficial in the morning to preserve your skin’s natural oils and support overnight repair processes. However, in the evening, a proper cleanser is essential to remove makeup, sunscreen, and daily impurities effectively. Remember to use lukewarm water, follow with a moisturizer, and incorporate a gentle cleanser when necessary. By balancing water-only washing with appropriate cleansing, you can maintain healthy, radiant skin.
Water-only washing can be beneficial in the morning, but always use a cleanser in the evening for thorough cleansing and optimal skin health.
Sources
Q&A
Yes, washing your face with just water in the morning can be beneficial as it helps preserve the skin's natural moisture barrier and supports overnight repair processes.
No, in the evening, water alone is insufficient as it cannot effectively remove makeup, sunscreen, and daily impurities. A proper cleanser is necessary for thorough cleansing.
Yes, water-only washing can be less harsh on sensitive skin compared to cleansers, helping maintain the skin's natural oils and moisture barrier. But only in the morning!
