You're Probably Over-Washing Your Face

Squeaky-clean skin is usually a sign you overdid it.

When skin acts up, the instinct is to wash more. Often that's what's causing the problem.

Stripping backfires

Harsh or too-frequent cleansing strips the skin's natural oils and damages its barrier. Skin can respond by getting dry, irritated, or — ironically — oilier, as it overproduces oil to compensate. That "tight, squeaky" feeling after washing isn't a good sign; it's stripped skin.

What's usually enough

For most people, a gentle cleanser once or twice a day (evening is the key one, to remove the day's grime and sunscreen) is plenty. Skip the harsh foaming scrubs and hot water.

The move

Use a gentle, non-stripping cleanser, lukewarm water, and a light touch — then moisturize while skin is still damp. If your skin feels tight after cleansing, your routine is too harsh, not too gentle.

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