---
title: "Morning Skincare Routines Can Be Harsh on Skin Barrier"
url: https://newscentral.site/morning-skincare-routines-can-be-harsh-on-skin-barrier/
language: en
publisher: "News Central Site"
section: "Business"
published: 2026-11-14T10:00:02.000Z
updated: 2026-11-15T03:46:24.764Z
id: 695da413-3454-4493-ba6a-870a5d83cd43
source: "Business Insider https://www.businessinsider.com/wash-face-morning-gentle-cleansers-ceramides-2026-11"
attribution: "Link to https://newscentral.site/morning-skincare-routines-can-be-harsh-on-skin-barrier/ and name News Central Site when you quote or summarize this story."
---

# Morning Skincare Routines Can Be Harsh on Skin Barrier

Dermatologists recommend gentle cleansing in the evening and skipping exfoliating scrubs that don't provide significant benefits.

Morning skincare routines can be harsh on the skin barrier, but dermatologists say it's not necessary to wash your face every morning.

They emphasize the importance of gentle cleansing in the evening and recommend skipping exfoliating scrubs that don't provide significant benefits.

The key is finding a balance between cleanliness and not stripping away essential skin oils, according to board-certified dermatologist Dr. Tanya Kormelli.

She notes that making general statements about washing your face twice a day can be misleading.

Dermatologists generally agree with this approach, as evidenced by the opinions of doctors in San Diego and New York who were consulted for their expertise.

A startup founder specializing in skincare products also echoes this sentiment, suggesting that individuals should not feel pressured to follow rigid daily routines.

The frequency of washing your face depends on your skin type - those with oily skin may require more frequent cleansing.

When washing your face, it's essential to choose a gentle cleanser to avoid stripping away the skin's surface. Surfactants are responsible for creating suds in soapy cleansers, but they can also cause dryness and irritation.

The risk of dryness is particularly high for older adults whose hormone levels may not be as effective at regulating oil production. Those with dry skin or eczema should also opt for gentle products that minimize stripping the skin's surface.

Using cleansers with salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide can exacerbate dryness, especially in winter months when air is drier. Drastically reducing usage of these products or taking a break from them altogether may help alleviate dryness and irritation.

Scrubbing your face doesn't actually stimulate new collagen production; it merely strips the skin of its natural oils.

Evening cleansing is often considered the most crucial time to wash your face, as it removes pollutants, sunscreen residue, sweat, and potentially caked-on makeup that have accumulated throughout the day.

Moisturizing doesn't need to break the bank; many effective options are surprisingly affordable, with some of the best products available at a fraction of the cost of high-end alternatives that may feature exotic ingredients like snail mucin.

While it's not entirely supported by evidence, dermatologists generally agree that using certain ingredients can be beneficial for moisturizing the skin. This is particularly true when choosing between various options.

Ceramides are a favorite among dermatologists due to their ability to help create a barrier on the skin and lock in moisture.

When it comes to skincare routines, dermatologists often recommend using specific ingredients to achieve desired results. One such ingredient is alpha hydroxy acids, which come in the form of glycolic, lactic, or mandelic serums. These acids can help clear away dead skin cells and leave skin looking bright and smooth.

However, it's essential to use these ingredients sparingly and test them one at a time to avoid irritation. This approach allows individuals to gauge their skin's response and adjust their routine accordingly. By doing so, they can achieve the desired "glass skin" effect without causing any adverse reactions.

Several dermatologists have mentioned specific products that work well for their patients. Carley recommends using a thin layer of a prescription compounded retinol-plus-niacinamide cream at night to maintain even, clear, and plump skin. On the other hand, some dermatologists opt for tretinoin to treat acne.

Many dermatologists also swear by CeraVe as an effective moisturizer and cleanser. However, Carley has a different preference - she swears by Vanicream, which is available in large quantities at an affordable price.

---
Source: [Business Insider](https://www.businessinsider.com/wash-face-morning-gentle-cleansers-ceramides-2026-11)  
Published by News Central Site: https://newscentral.site/morning-skincare-routines-can-be-harsh-on-skin-barrier/
