What Happens To Your Skin When You Stop Washing Your Face?

We all know that cleansing and properly washing your face is a crucial part of every basic skincare routine, but what would happen to your skin if you stopped washing your face altogether? It's no secret that over-washing skin can strip it of its natural oils and result in a damaged skin barrier, but could cutting cleansing out of a skincare routine work for some?

For answers, we turned to dermatologist Dr. Hannah Kopelman of Kopelman Aesthetic Surgery. "Honestly, if you completely stopped washing your face, you'd quickly notice changes in your skin, and not for the better," she tells Glam exclusively.

While not washing your face certainly doesn't seem like a great idea, we wanted to understand what would happen to our skin if we ditched our cleansing routine. The answers Dr. Kopelman gave us will certainly make you instantly forget any potential no-face-washing experiments you may have been considering. In fact, you'll probably become an even bigger fan of the double-cleansing method.

Let's say you stop washing your face for a couple of days; chances are you will quickly notice that your skin is changing. "From my experience, when people don't cleanse regularly, they start to experience a buildup of oil, dirt, and dead skin cells, which leads to clogged pores, blackheads, and breakouts," Dr. Hannah Kopelman explains exclusively to Glam.

While those are certainly unwanted, Dr. Kopelman tells us that not washing your face can result in skin conditions that would need treatment. "The skin tends to look dull and uneven without regular cleansing," she says. "Over time, you could even see more serious issues like acne or dermatitis flare up ... It can really take a toll on your skin's health."

Those who struggle with skin problems should not attempt skipping the washing. "For those with sensitive skin, skipping cleansing could lead to redness and irritation getting much worse," Dr. Kopelman adds.

If you have attempted to go without washing your face for a certain period and you've noticed that the condition of your skin has gotten worse, getting it back to what it used to be isn't as easy as washing your face just once. However, eventually, your skin will recover.

"In my experience, most people start to notice an improvement within a few days, but it really depends on how long you've gone without cleansing and how your skin typically reacts," Dr. Hannah Kopelman explains exclusively to Glam. "Usually, I tell my patients that it may take up to a couple of weeks for your skin to fully recover and balance out."

A crucial part of reintroducing washing to your routine is keeping it simple: using cleansers and moisturizers that work for your skin type. "It's important to use a gentle cleanser and follow up with a good moisturizer to help your skin heal and maintain its natural barrier," Dr. Kopelman adds. "I've personally seen how quickly the skin can improve when you get back into a good routine, and it's always rewarding to see that healthy, nourished glow return." If you have no clue where to start, take a look at our guide on the foolproof bare minimum skincare routine.

Now that we've established that not washing your face is a skincare no-go, what are its actual benefits? "Personally, I believe face washing is one of the most basic yet essential steps in any skincare routine," Dr. Hannah Kopelman tells us exclusively. "It helps keep your pores clear, reduces the risk of breakouts, and ensures your skin is prepped to absorb any treatments or moisturizers you apply afterward."

Finding the right balance between washing your face to ensure you get rid of any pore-clogging residue and not overwashing it can be a tad difficult. "In my practice, I always tell my patients to wash their face twice a day — once in the morning to remove the oils that build up while you sleep, and again at night to cleanse away dirt, sweat, and environmental pollutants from the day," Dr. Kopelman explains. "I can't stress enough how important it is, especially for those who wear makeup, to thoroughly cleanse the skin to prevent clogged pores or irritation."

However, if you're washing your face twice a day, consider using a gentle cleanser, as some can be harsh on your skin barrier, especially if you have sensitive skin. Since everyone's skin is different, if you're struggling with figuring out your face-washing routine, it's always a good idea to consult a dermatologist for advice.