Why washing your face with cold water could transform your skin

When it comes to washing your face, water temperature matters, and cold water isn’t just shocking; it might be beneficial.

Daily face washing is a cornerstone of skin care, helping remove dirt, oil, and bacteria to keep skin fresh and healthy. 

But questions often arise: How often should you wash? What products work best? And most importantly, should you use hot, lukewarm, or cold water?

The effects of cold water on skin

Cold water can offer several benefits. For acne-prone skin, cold water may help regulate oil production. “Hot water strips oils that can trigger breakouts,” said Sophia Knapp, a licensed cosmetologist with Oxygenetix. 

Cold water can also reduce redness caused by conditions like rosacea, as it prevents blood vessels from dilating.

Other advantages include minimizing puffiness, tightening pores, and promoting circulation, giving the skin a natural glow. 

Cold showers under 70°F (21°C) have also been linked to increased endorphins, boosted metabolism, and better overall circulation.

Potential drawbacks

Cold water isn’t perfect for every skin care routine. Since it tightens pores, it can trap debris and bacteria, leaving your skin less clean than warm water would. 

Knapp recommends washing with lukewarm water first to remove dirt and makeup, then finishing with a cold rinse to tighten pores and enhance circulation.

What experts recommend

Lukewarm water is often the best middle ground. Anne Beal, MD, MPH, a skin care physician and founder of AbsoluteJOI Skincare, explains that lukewarm water preserves skin oils, prevents irritation, and ensures proper absorption of skin care products. Extreme temperatures switching between hot and cold can damage capillaries and compromise skin health.

How often should you wash your face?

Experts agree that twice daily is ideal, morning and night. “Your pillowcases collect a surprising amount of bacteria, so a morning wash helps reduce puffiness and dirt,” said Knapp. A nighttime cleanse is crucial for removing makeup, sweat, and environmental debris.

Tips for healthy skin

• Be gentle: Use fingertips to cleanse and pat dry with a soft towel.
• After workouts: Wash off sweat promptly to prevent clogged pores.
• Stay hydrated: Drink at least eight 8-ounce glasses of water daily.
• Choose products wisely: Use gentle cleansers first, followed by serums or lotions containing active ingredients like salicylic acid, glycolic acid, lactic acid, or vitamin C.