Does Your Skin Feel Dry and Tight After Washing? Here’s Why

Table of Contents Why does your skin feel tight after washing? Using a harsh face cleanser Over-cleansing your face Waiting too long before applying skincare products How to wash your face properly Always choose a gentle cleanser Wash your face twice a day Cleanse your face using your fingertips Don’t wait too long before moving on too the next step Let Cutis be your skincare partner

We all know the importance of properly cleansing our face. Apart from removing dirt, oil, makeup, and other impurities, it also helps products penetrate properly into the skin and even boosts hydration. It prepares the skin and allows the next steps in our routine to work properly and effectively. 

One important sign that you’ve washed your face properly is having skin that feels fresh, clean, and smooth. If your skin, however, feels dry and tight, it could mean that you’re not doing it right or your routine is doing more damage than good. Continue reading as we explain the reason for this and how to wash your face properly. 

Why does your skin feel tight after washing?

Dry, tight skin after cleansing means that moisture has evaporated from your skin and this can be due to:

• Using a harsh face cleanser – or a formula that is not right for your skin type can strip all the water and natural oils from your skin. The result is a dehydrated skin surface. And without enough moisture, the dead skin cells can accumulate and lead to breakouts and sensitivity. This can also worsen existing skin conditions.
• Over-cleansing your face – or doing so several times a day can lead to dryness and irritation. The effect is almost the same as using a harsh cleanser, as it compromises the skin’s protective barrier. Overwashing, furthermore, can contribute to more breakouts and accelerate aging.
• Waiting too long before applying skincare products – can cause your skin to lose more moisture. It is also worth noting that when the skin is damp with water, it will attract more water from the skin’s deep layer and evaporate into the dry air. 

For further reading: Face Washing: What is the 60-Second Rule & Should You Try It?

How to wash your face properly 

Many skin care experts and aesthetic clinics in Singapore can offer you recommendations on how to cleanse your face properly and what to wash your face with, especially if you have specific skin concerns. Here are a few helpful tips from Cutis Medical Laser Clinics.

• Always choose a gentle cleanser – Don’t use regular bar soap. Choose a mild or gentle face cleanser or a formula that is labeled “sulfate-free”. Dr. Sylvia’s Deep Cleanser with Rice Water is ideal for oily and problematic skin types. It removes excess oil, impurities, and dead skin cells without stripping the skin.  
• Wash your face twice a day – This is the general rule, once in the morning and once at night. There are also cases where some people cannot do so in the morning, which is sometimes okay. Nighttime washing, however, should be a priority, as it is important to remove dirt, makeup, and impurities before sleeping.
• Cleanse your face using your fingertips – Avoid using cleansing wipes and other cleaning tools. Only use the tips of your fingers and cleanse your face without rubbing. Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water and pat your skin dry with a clean towel. 
• Don’t wait too long before moving on to the next step – While the skin is still damp after washing, apply your moisturizer, serum, or an alcohol-free toner. This helps the skin feel fresh, moist, and hydrated. Dr. Sylvia’s Purifying Toner with Hazel & White Willow balances oil products and leaves the skin feeling smoother and refined. 

For further reading: Is Your Skincare Regimen Sanitary? How to Keep it Clean

Let Cutis be your skincare partner

If you’re looking for a reliable aesthetic clinic in Singapore, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. Cutis Medical Laser Clinics offers evidence-based aesthetic procedures, as well as FDA-cleared and CE-marked treatments for different face and body concerns. Whether you’re worried about wrinkles, sagging skin, dark spots, or stubborn fat, we got you covered. 

We provide non-surgical aesthetic treatments, including lasers and RF procedures, cosmetic injectables, and microneedling in Singapore. Also, our skincare line, Dr. Sylvia Skin Care, features an intensive medical-grade collection that delivers multi-layer fortification to the skin. Contact Cutis today to learn more or book a consultation with our aesthetic doctor.