Washing your hands before cleansing your face may seem like an extra step, but it’s crucial. The keyword here is “hygiene.” Hands come into contact with countless surfaces every day, collecting bacteria, dirt, and oils. Neglecting to wash your hands before touching your face could transfer these impurities to your skin, potentially causing breakouts or irritation.
Preventing Bacterial Transfer
Our hands naturally pick up bacteria from keyboards, doorknobs, smartphones, and other common objects. Washing your hands helps prevent these bacteria from transferring to your face. This step can minimize the risk of bacterial infection and skin issues like acne.
Reducing Dirt and Oil
Throughout the day, your hands gather not only bacteria but also dirt and oil. Touching your face with dirty hands can lead to clogged pores and a dull complexion. By ensuring your hands are clean, you reduce the chances of introducing these impurities to your skin.
For those wondering when to wash their hands, the short answer is often. Key times include before eating, after using the restroom, and before performing skincare routines.
Enhancing Product Efficacy
When you start your skincare routine with clean hands, you maximize the effectiveness of your products. Dirt or oil on your hands could interfere with the absorption of cleansers, moisturizers, or treatments. Clean hands ensure that your products can work as intended.
Preventing Contamination of Skincare Products
Dipping dirty hands into jars or touching tube applicators can introduce bacteria into your skincare products. This contamination could degrade the product’s quality over time. Always wash your hands before handling your skincare items to maintain their integrity.
Adopting a Consistent Routine
Consistency is key in skincare. Make handwashing a non-negotiable part of your routine. Your skin will thank you for it. When you create a habit of this practice, you help set the foundation for a successful skincare regimen.
Listening to Your Skin
Pay attention to how your skin reacts to your routine. If you notice breakouts or sensitivity, consider whether you are consistently washing your hands before cleansing. Adjust as needed to see improvements in your skin’s health.