New data reveals why its crucial to wash your face before bed

A new study has revealed that two-thirds of Brits lack a consistent skincare routine, with many going to bed without washing their face at all. But, according to dermatologists and skincare specialists, not washing off the day can clog pores, disrupt the skin’s natural repair process and lead to dullness, congestion and breakouts.

Being bombarded with well-meaning advice gets old, fast. Yes, we all know being glued to our phones isn’t great, but that last scroll before bed can be a non-negotiable guilty pleasure.

But when it comes to our skin, being ‘too tired’ to wash off the day is no longer a valid excuse, as dermatologists and skin experts reveal what actually happens when you go to sleep without washing your face.

If we’ve been inside all day and haven’t worn make-up, it doesn’t seem ridiculous to then not do a full night-time cleanse. However, no matter what you’ve been doing, your skin has been producing sebum and needs a nightly reset.

What happens to your skin if you don't wash it at night?

"You may not be able to see it, but oils, pollutants, topical creams, sunscreen, and anything else your skin comes in contact with throughout the day need to be removed," explained skin therapist and co-founder of Ella & Jo, Niamh Ryan.

Not washing off the day can "clog pores, disrupt the skin’s natural repair process and lead to dullness, congestion and breakouts," explains aesthetics and skincare specialist Dr Ellie Sateei. "Think of it like not brushing your teeth before bed, it’s not a step you want to skip."

When you skip an evening cleanse, "the skin can’t do its job," said dermo-pharmacist and founder of Lixirskin, Dr Colette Haydon. "At night, the skin wants to repair itself, and with [dirt] particles sitting on top, it can’t work effectively."

While you may think make-up has the biggest impact when left on your skin overnight, there are actually a whole host of pollutants and chemicals that can wreak long-term havoc if not removed before bed.

"Unwashed SPF, make-up and pollution residue can disrupt your skin’s microbiome and acid mantle," explained holistic facialist and Weleda’s skincare therapist Elizabeth King. "This leads to increased inflammation, redness and sensitivity, making your skin more reactive over time."

It can also accelerate signs of ageing. "When make-up, sunscreen and pollution particles are left on the skin overnight, they cause oxidative stress," said facialist and founder of Blomma Beauty Karen MacDonald. "This damages the skin’s natural collagen and elastin, which can lead to fine lines, wrinkles and sagging over time."

"Cleansing helps to remove these external aggressors, allowing your skin to repair itself and maintain its youthful glow," she added. "So, maintaining a regular cleansing routine is what supports skin renewal, which helps reduce the visible signs of ageing."

Can I skip a cleanse occasionally?

"Missing one night won’t cause a skincare catastrophe, but repeated neglect absolutely takes its toll. Over time, build-up leads to inflammation, uneven texture and a weakened skin barrier." explained Dr Sateei. The occasional lapse is human, she said, "just try not to make it a habit."

"Try not to think of your nightly cleanse as a chore, but instead as a vital part of your bedtime routine,” says King, “something that signals to your body that it’s time to relax and get ready for a restorative night of sleep.

Dr Sateei advised keeping a medical-grade cleanser, approved by your doctor or dermatologist, "within easy reach" and commit to just one minute of washing a day, priortising nighttime cleansing over morning cleansing.

She said, "You don’t need a lengthy routine; less is more. People often overload their skin with too many products, which can actually stress it out rather than help. I always tell my patients that a skincare routine should be two to three steps max."

The three basic tools you need in your kit are a make-up remover (if you wear make-up), a cleanser and a moisturiser. Use in that order and voilà, you’re ready for bed.

Image credit: Alamy/PA