How Often Should You Be Washing Your Face? Dr. Pimple Popper Breaks It Down.
So how often should you wash your face?
Here are some of Dr. Pimple Popper's simple rules — and they’re way easier than you might think.
Published:
2 minute read
If you’ve ever wondered whether you’re supposed to cleanse once a day… twice… after every workout… or whenever your skin feels “gross,” you’re not alone.
Most people are washing too often, not enough, or with the wrong cleanser, all of which can lead to breakouts, dryness, and dullness.
Let's break it down:
🧼 Rule #1: At Least Twice a Day — Morning + Night
🌅 Morning Cleanse: Reset + Prep
Even if you didn’t sweat, your skin collects:
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Oil buildup
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Dead skin cells
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Pillow bacteria
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Skincare residue from the night before
A quick morning cleanse helps your Vitamin C Serum, moisturizer, and sunscreen absorb better and last longer.
🌙 Night Cleanse: Non-Negotiable
You must wash off:
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Makeup
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Sunscreen
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Sweat
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Oil
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Dirt
If you skip this step, it builds up inside your pores and leads to blackheads, whiteheads, and dull, uneven skin.
Cleanse, exfoliate and smooth
🏋️ Rule #2: Always Cleanse After Working Out
Sweat itself doesn’t cause acne but when it mixes with oil, bacteria, and makeup, it becomes the perfect recipe for clogged pores.
Pro Tip: Wash your face within 10–15 minutes after a workout.
😴 Rule #3: If You Have Oily or Acne-Prone Skin, Twice Daily Cleansing Is Essential
Skipping even one cleanse can quickly lead to:
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Congested pores
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New breakouts
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Excess oil
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Rough texture
Salicylic acid is key because it’s oil-soluble, meaning it dives deep into clogged pores and clears them from the inside.
🌵 Rule #4: If Your Skin Is Dry or Sensitive, Stick With Twice Daily — But Choose the Right Formula
Cleansing less than twice a day actually causes more dryness and irritation because dead skin builds up and blocks hydration from getting in.
The fix: Use a gentle active cleanser paired with a hydrating moisturizer.
An Effective SLMD Combo
😴 Rule #5: Never Miss a Night Cleanse (Even If You’re Exhausted)
This is the #1 habit that separates “my skin is always kind of dull” from “my skin looks amazing.”
Your skin repairs itself at night — it can’t do that if it’s covered in grime.
Pro Tip: Keep your cleanser in the shower for those nights when you need a fast, zero-effort wash.
🤔 But Can You Over-Cleanse? Yes. Here’s How to Know.
Signs you’re washing too much or using a harsh cleanser:
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Tight, squeaky skin
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Flakiness
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Redness
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Burning or stinging
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Excess oil production (your skin trying to compensate)
Solution: Switch to a balanced exfoliating cleanser with hydrating ingredients like our SLMD Salicylic Acid Cleanser.
✨ The Bottom Line
Most people need to wash their face morning + night, and always after sweating.
But the real secret isn’t how often — it’s what you’re washing with.
A cleanser with salicylic acid gives you:
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Clearer pores
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Fewer breakouts
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Smoother texture
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Brighter, more even skin
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Better absorption of the rest of your skincare
🛒 Ready to Upgrade Your Cleansing Routine?
Meet the derm-developed cleanser that works for every skin type — especially acne-prone, oily, or combination skin:
Deep clean. Clear pores. Smooth texture.
Your twice-a-day essential for healthy, balanced, glowing skin.
