Should You Do Your Skincare Routine Before or After A Shower? Here’s What Experts Say!
Taking care of your skin is a very crucial aspect of life as it gives you confidence and self-satisfaction. However, with so many conflicting opinions and advice, it can be challenging to determine the best approach to follow in your skincare routine. One common question that arises is, should you do your skincare routine before or after a shower?
It’s generally recommended to do your skincare routine after taking a shower. The reason is that the hot water and steam from the shower can help to open up your pores and make it easier for your skincare products to penetrate deeper into the skin.
In this article, I am going to tell you the benefits and drawbacks of skincare before or after a shower and help you make an informed decision. Keep Reading!
Should You Do Your Skincare Routine Before or After A Shower?
Whether you should do your skincare routine before or after a shower depends on various factors, such as your skin type, the products you use, and your personal preferences. Here are some things to consider before deciding your skincare routine time:
Cleansing
If you use a cleanser in your skincare routine, it’s generally better to do it before you shower. This way, you can wash off any residue or buildup on your skin before exposing it to hot water and steam. If you cleanse after showering, you may not get the same level of effectiveness, as the hot water and steam can cause your skin to produce more oil and sweat, which can clog your pores.
Exfoliating
If you want to use an exfoliator in your skincare routine, it’s better to do it after you shower. The warm water and steam from your shower can help open up your pores and soften your skin, making it easier for the exfoliating product to work effectively. However, be gentle when exfoliating, especially if you have sensitive skin, as over-exfoliation can damage your skin and cause irritation.
Moisturizing
Whether you moisturize before or after a shower depends on your skin type and the type of moisturizer you use. If you have dry or sensitive skin, it’s better to moisturize after you shower, as the warm water can strip your skin of its natural oils, leaving it dry and dehydrated. However, if you have oily or acne-prone skin, you may prefer to moisturize before you shower to help prevent your skin from becoming too greasy or clogged.
Hot or Cold Shower
If you prefer taking hot showers, it’s better to do your skincare routine after your shower, as hot water can dry out your skin and strip it of its natural oils. On the other hand, if you prefer lukewarm or cool showers, you may be able to do your skincare routine before or after, depending on your personal preferences.
Pros and Cons of Skincare Routine Before the Shower
Pros
- You can rinse off any excess product or residue in the shower, which can be especially helpful if you’re prone to clogged pores or breakouts.
- You may have more time to apply and massage your skincare products without feeling rushed, as you won’t have to worry about getting ready to leave the house or going to bed right after.
Cons
- If you’re using a cleanser or exfoliant as part of your routine, you’ll need to use water to rinse it off, which can be messy if you’re not careful.
- Depending on how long you wait before taking a shower, some of the benefits of your skincare products may have already worn off by the time you step into the shower.
Extra Tips
- If you’re using an oil-based cleanser, you may want to apply it before your shower and then use water to emulsify it and rinse it off once you’re in the shower.
- If you’re using a physical exfoliant (like a scrub), be gentle when massaging it onto your skin and rinse it off thoroughly to avoid irritation.
Pros and Cons of Skincare Routine After a Shower:
Pros
- Your skin may be more receptive to skincare products after being exposed to warm water, as the steam can help open up your pores and soften your skin.
- You may already have cleansed your skin in the shower, which means you can skip that step in your routine and move straight on to any serums, moisturizers, or treatments.
Cons
- If you’re using a lot of water-based products, you’ll need to dry your skin thoroughly before applying them, which can be time-consuming.
- If you’re prone to dry skin, the warm water from your shower may have already stripped some of the natural oils from your skin, which could make it more difficult for products to absorb properly.
Extra Tips
- If you’re using a toner or essence, apply it while your skin is still slightly damp to help it absorb more easily.
- If you’re using a moisturizer or oil, be sure to apply it to damp skin to help lock in moisture.
Ultimately, whether you do your skincare routine before or after a shower is up to personal preference and what works best for your skin. Some people may find that one method works better than the other, while others may prefer to mix it up depending on the day or their schedule. It’s important to listen to your skin and pay attention to how it responds to different products and techniques.
Wrapping Up
All in all, whether you should do your skincare routine before or after a shower depends on various factors, including your skin type and which products you prefer to use. Generally, it’s better to cleanse before a shower and moisturize after a shower, but there are exceptions to this rule. Ultimately, there is no one-size-fits-all rule on whether you should skincare before or after the shower, and it’s up to you to find the best skincare routine that works for your individual needs. With a little experimentation, you’ll find the right balance that will keep your skin healthy and glowing!
You Might Also Like: Why is My Skin So Dry Even When I Moisturize?
FAQs
Should I Do Skincare After Shower Or Before Bed?
Doing skincare before bed is also a good option. This allows your skin to fully absorb the products overnight without being exposed to external factors like pollution, sunlight, or makeup. So, prioritize doing a skincare routine before going to bed at any time.
Should You Do Your Skincare Routine in the Morning Or Night?
You should do your skincare routine both in the morning and at night. In the morning, you should cleanse your skin to remove any oil or sweat that may have accumulated on your skin overnight. At night, it’s essential to cleanse your skin again to remove any makeup, dirt, or pollutants that may have accumulated on your skin during the day. So, doing a skincare routine both in the morning and at night is equally important.
Should You Do Skincare Before Or After Shaving?
If you are planning to shave, it is generally recommended to do your skincare routine before shaving. This is because shaving can be harsh on your skin, and preparing your skin beforehand can help minimize irritation and potential damage the chemicals can cause to your skin.
Should You Do Skincare Before Or After a Workout?
It’s recommended to do your skincare routine after a workout, especially if you have been sweating heavily. During exercise, your skin produces sweat to cool you down, and this sweat can mix with oil and bacteria on your skin, which can lead to clogged pores and breakouts. It’s crucial to cleanse your skin after a workout to remove any sweat, oil, or bacteria that may have accumulated on your skin.
Is It Bad To Do Your Skincare Routine In The Shower?
It’s generally not recommended to do your entire skincare routine in the shower, as the water and steam can be too hot and harsh on your skin. Hot water can strip your skin of its natural oils, leading to dryness and irritation. Additionally, the steam from the shower can cause your pores to open, making it easier for dirt and bacteria to enter and potentially causing breakouts.
Should You Do Your Skincare Routine Before Or After the Gym?
You should do your skincare routine after coming from the gym. This will help to remove any sweat,, dirt, or oil that may be on your skin, allowing your skin to breathe after your workout.
