How Long Do You Leave Cleanser On Your Face?

Updated:

30 Jan 2023

I’m the go-to guide gal and routine queen here at Adore Beauty. I have a background in media and communications, and over 3 years experience in the beauty industry. When I’m not answering all of your burning questions, you can find me spruiking underrated products to my co-workers and trying to figure out what our best bloody mascara is.

How Long Do You Leave Cleanser On Your Face? [model cleaning face in white bathroom]

It helps to remember that cleansers are wash-off treatments that aren’t completely absorbed by the skin.

So, instead of looking for a cleanser to do everything under the sun, it’s best to rely on a cleanser to do what a cleanser does best (cleanse).

A good cleanser simply gets your skin clean, eliminating excess oil and debris without drying out or irritating your skin.

So, we’ve put together a guide to help you determine how long to leave a cleanser on your face, how long you should wash your face, and maybe even help you find your perfect cleanser.

How Long Should I Leave Face Wash On?

The answer to this question really depends on the type of cleanser you’re using and for what purpose.

Trying to use your cleanser as a mask or moisturiser can dry out your face and reduce the effectiveness of your daily skincare routine.

Instead, try to just follow the directions on the label, and spend time massaging the cleanser into the skin instead of just letting it sit.

We’ve explained how many minutes to wash your face for and how long to wash your face for using each type of cleanser below:

Oil Cleanser:

If you’re starting your cleansing routine with a cleansing oil, you will need to take some time to use this cleanser to break down makeup.
Apply the cleanser with dry hands to dry skin and massage in for 1-2 minutes, before rinsing for 30 seconds.
Using this method known as double cleansing works incredibly well for acne prone skin.

Micellar Water:

Using a micellar water is an easy way to quickly and effectively remove makeup.
Swiping off makeup using micellar water and a cotton pad should take only 30 seconds.
You can then wash off any residue with water and follow with your second cleanse.

Gel, Foam and Cream Cleansers:

If you’re using one of these cleansers to follow up your first cleanse in the evening, or as your first cleanse in the morning, apply to wet skin and massage it in for 30-60 seconds before rinsing.

You can find out even more about how to cleanse your skin properly in the YouTube video below...

How to Get the Most From Your Cleanser.

Take your daily cleansing ritual up a notch with a few simple cleansing solutions for clear, glowing skin:

Add a silicone cleansing brush to your skincare routine and get gentle exfoliation and a deeper clean.
Instead of scrubbing your face, use your fingers, a washcloth, or a brush to gently massage in soft circles.
Avoid over cleansing by limiting your cleansing routine to no more than twice per day. Ideally, you should wash your face after exercise and after removing makeup/before bed.
If you find yourself needing to scrub hard, wash frequently, or leaving the cleanser on your face so that it will 'work better', you probably need a different product. In this case it’s probably time to switch cleansers...

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A Roundup of Our Top 6 Favourite Cleansers.

First Step Oil Cleanser

Dermalogica PreCleanse 150ml

$73.35 $82.00

4.7 of 554 reviews

The Dermalogica PreCleanse is a go-to oil cleanser for those who love the double cleansing technique. It has a lightweight texture that easily melts away oil, makeup, dirt and debris. Ideal for a range of skin types, this effective cleansing oil won’t irritate your skin or cause any stinging as you remove your eye makeup with ease. How long should you wash your face for? Apply with dry hands to dry skin and massage in for 1-2 minutes before adding water to lather and then rinsing for 30 seconds.

An Affordable Hydrating Cleanser

CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser 236ml

$17.99

4.5 of 55 reviews

As far as we’re concerned, the CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser has an unbeatable formula for sensitive skin types. This hydrating face cleanser is perfect for those with acne prone skin, and instantly refreshes skin tightness and irritation. While lightly cleansing the skin, this hypoallergenic formula also removes makeup and tones the skin. How long should I cleanse my face for? We would suggest cleansing your face for at least 60 seconds.

Go Easy with a Gentle Gel Cleanser

COSRX Low-pH Good Morning Gel Cleanser 150ml

$25.00

4.5 of 44 reviews

Cleansing doesn’t have to be an aggressive experience, or packed with active ingredients. Go for a simple, pH balanced cleanser like the COSRX Low-pH Good Morning Gel Cleanser. Perfect for sensitive skin types, this calming formula gently clarifies the skin and controls excess sebum using Tea Tree Oil and BHA’s. This cleanser won’t leave your skin feeling tight, but it will leave it feeling super clean. How long are you supposed to wash your face for? Apply a small amount to wet skin and massage into the skin for 30-60 seconds before rinsing.

Our Favourite Foaming Formula

An ideal foaming formula for oily and acne prone skin skin types is the Kiehl's Calendula Deep Cleansing Foaming Face Wash. Calendula is a powerful ingredient known for it’s healing properties and positive impact on oily and combination skin types. Paired with Glycerine, this cleanser helps to hydrate the skin and soothe inflammation. Apply to dampened hands and skin, making sure to lather up the product first and massage in gentle circular motions for 30-60 seconds before rinsing.

A Highly Restorative Cream Cleanser

Grown Alchemist Hydra-Restore Cream Cleanser 100ml

$52.00

3.8 of 5 reviews

Dry and sensitive skin types sometimes benefit from a restorative cream formula that will reinforce the barrier. The Grown Alchemist Hydra-Restore Cream Cleanser effectively cleanses the skin, while leaving it super moisturised. Natural ingredients like Olive Leaf Extract and Yarrow extract tone the skin and contain anti-ageing properties, while Red Seaweed extract protects the barrier and targets uneven skin tone. Dry skin types benefit from regular use of this cleanser, morning and night. Massage a small amount of product onto damp skin for 30-60 seconds before rinsing.

An Exfoliating Essential

asap daily facial cleanser 200ml

$48.00

4.6 of 718 reviews

The asap daily facial cleanser is a lightweight, milky cleanser that cleanses and exfoliates the skin with Alpha-Hydroxy Acids. It resurfaces the skin daily for a glow from within, and a seriously smooth effect. The inclusion of White Tea helps to protect the skin and soothes any inflamation. Gentle enough for daily use, morning and night. This cleanser can be used on all skin types, but oily and combo skin will benefit most.

What Happens If I Leave a Cleanser On for Too Long?

Leaving your cleanser on for a few extra seconds isn't going to destroy your skin.

However, consistently letting cleansers sit on your face longer than necessary can cause a number of skin problems, including:

Sensitivity and reactions can be caused by cleansers with potent actives that were designed to be wash-off treatments.
Excessive dryness can be caused by almost any cleanser if left on the skin for too long.
Irritation to your eyes, nose, and mouth can be caused, particularly if the cleanser used contains Salicylic and Glycolic acids.

So, are you supposed to wash off cleanser? Should I wash my face after using cleanser? Absolutely, yes.

Can you leave cleanser on your face overnight? That’s something we certainly wouldn’t recommend.

If you like the idea of leaving something on your face overnight, have read of this article on 4 At-Home Overnight Skincare Treatments That Are (Almost) as Good as a Facial.

And if you're still hungry to read more on all things cleansers, check out these guides...

On the search for the perfect cleanser? Try our cleanser quiz to find the best cleanser for your skin's needs

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