Using just water to wash your face might seem like an insufficient skincare practice, but it can actually be pretty effective. Some people wonder if water alone can properly clean your skin, especially with all the different facial cleansers out there. But what does the science say?

It's gentle on the skin

Water is a great way to clean your skin without damaging it. It can help remove dirt, oil, and other impurities without stripping away the natural oils your skin needs to stay hydrated and healthy.

It's a great pH buffer

Our skin has a slightly acidic pH, which helps keep it safe from harmful germs and stays healthy. Washing our face with just water helps keep this delicate balance, preventing irritation and redness that can happen with harsher cleansers.

It provides lots of hydration

When you wash your face with water, it helps keep your skin cells moist and soft. This is especially helpful for people with dry or sensitive skin, who might find other cleansers too drying.

It's easy on the wallet

Using water as your main facial cleanser is a budget-friendly and eco-friendly option. It's cheaper than buying pricey cleansers and helps reduce the amount of plastic waste from packaging.

It has a soothing effect

Some facial cleansers have ingredients in them that can irritate sensitive skin, such as fragrances and preservatives.

When you use just water alone, it can help you avoid these irritants and reduce the chance of getting irritated (or worse, an allergic reaction).

It promotes circulation

Washing your face with cool water can make your skin look healthier and more radiant. It helps improve blood flow to the surface of your skin, which can reduce puffiness and make your skin look more vibrant.

It works on all skin types

Washing your face with water is great because it works for all types of skin.

Whether you have oily, dry, combination, or sensitive skin, water can cleanse your face without making things worse or irritating your skin.

Other considerations

To get the most out of washing your face, it's important to follow a few simple guidelines. 

First, use lukewarm water instead of hot or cold water, as both can have negative effects on your skin. Hot water can strip your skin of its natural oils, while cold water may not be able to remove dirt and impurities effectively.

When you're done washing, be gentle when drying your face by patting it gently with a towel instead of rubbing it vigorously. You can also consider adding a gentle exfoliant to your routine every now and then to help remove dead skin cells and improve skin texture.