In daily skincare routines, cleansing is often regarded as the most fundamental and crucial step.

However, excessive cleansing can damage the skin and impact its health and appearance.

Four common excessive cleansing behaviors

1. Using Cleansing Products with Too-Strong Cleansing Power

Some cleansing products, marketed as having powerful cleansing abilities, often contain strong soap-based ingredients. While these products can effectively remove oil and dirt from the skin's surface, long-term use may result in skin damage.

The oil on the skin's surface is essential for maintaining its barrier function. Excessive removal of these oils can damage the skin barrier, reducing its ability to retain moisture and provide protection. Consequently, the skin may become drier, more sensitive, and lose its original luster and elasticity.

2. Frequent Face Washing

Under normal circumstances, washing the face once in the morning and once in the evening is sufficient. However, some individuals may wash their faces multiple times a day due to an excessive focus on cleansing.

Frequent washing removes the protective layer on the skin's surface, leading to the overwashing of natural oils. This not only causes dryness but also makes the skin more fragile and sensitive to external stimuli.

Therefore, it is recommended to wash the face twice a day—once in the morning and once in the evening—to prevent unnecessary skin damage.

3. Washing Your Face Too Hard

Some people believe that vigorous massage during face washing can lead to better cleansing results. However, this practice is incorrect. Washing the face too aggressively does not improve cleaning effectiveness and may cause damage to the skin.

Excessive friction can harm the protective layer of the skin and even stretch it, leading to premature aging. Over time, the skin may become loose and wrinkled. It is important to wash the face gently and avoid applying excessive force.

4. Using Cleansing and Exfoliating Products Too Frequently

Deep cleansing masks and exfoliating products can effectively remove dead skin cells and impurities when used correctly. However, excessive use of these products can lead to over-cleansing.

Frequent exfoliation and deep cleansing not only damage the skin’s natural protective layer but can also cause increased sensitivity and other issues. Therefore, the frequency of using such products should be adjusted according to individual skin type to avoid damage from excessive cleaning.

Four Major Problems Caused by Excessive Cleansing

Excessive cleansing can have various adverse effects on the skin. Here are four common skin problems associated with over-cleansing:

1. Increased Skin Dryness

Excessive cleansing can significantly diminish the skin's ability to retain moisture, leading to accelerated water loss and causing the skin to become dry and rough. For individuals with already dry skin, over-cleansing can exacerbate this condition and may even result in peeling.

2. Skin Stinging

Over-cleansing damages the skin's protective layer, reducing its ability to withstand external stimuli. This condition can lead to symptoms such as stinging, redness, and heightened sensitivity, affecting the overall comfort and health of the skin.

3. Increased Likelihood of Acne

When the skin barrier is compromised, the skin loses its natural protection, making it more susceptible to external bacteria and other irritants. This weakened resistance can lead to acne and other skin problems, as unprotected skin is more prone to breakouts.

4. Formation of Dry Lines

Excessive cleansing can cause the skin to become dry, leading to the appearance of dry lines. If not properly moisturized, these dry lines can deepen over time and develop into wrinkles, affecting the smoothness and appearance of the skin.

Maintaining proper cleansing practices is essential for healthy skin. By choosing gentle cleansing products, controlling the frequency and intensity of face washing, and using deep cleansing and exfoliating products appropriately, one can effectively prevent skin problems caused by excessive cleansing. Adopting scientific and reasonable cleansing habits not only helps maintain skin health but also preserves its radiance and elasticity.