The skincare world is buzzing with a controversial new trend: ditching the morning cleanse. Influencer Bambi Does Beauty, with her massive following on TikTok and Instagram, recently urged her hundreds of thousands of followers to stop their morning face washing routine. This advice, seemingly simple, has sparked a heated debate among skincare enthusiasts and professionals alike.
Bambi’s argument centers around the idea that morning cleansing can strip the skin of essential oils, leaving it dry, tight, and sensitive. She advocates for double cleansing only in the evening to remove makeup and SPF, leaving the morning routine focused on a simple splash of water and perhaps a toner mist. Her recommendation aligns with a growing minimalist skincare movement that prioritizes gentle, non-invasive methods.
Numerous commenters on her videos have shared their positive experiences, reporting significant improvements in skin texture and hydration since adopting a water-only morning cleanse. One user from humid Houston, with combination/acne-prone skin, even credits the change with a remarkable improvement in their complexion. Another suggests using a microfiber cloth with warm water for gentle exfoliation.
However, this minimalist approach isn’t universally embraced. Renowned skincare expert Caroline Hirons, author of the bestselling book ‘Skincare,’ champions a gentle morning cleanse, emphasizing the need to remove any overnight sebum or environmental pollutants. In an interview with The Standard, Hirons stated unequivocally that, while double cleansing is for nighttime, a single, gentle morning cleanse is still necessary. She advocates for a single cleanse to start the day and argues that there is no need for double cleansing in the morning as makeup and SPF have been removed the previous night.
This conflicting advice highlights the complexities of skincare. What works wonders for one individual might not be suitable for another. Online discussions reflect this diversity of opinion. Reddit threads reveal a range of experiences, with some users questioning Hirons’ advice, stating it’s too harsh for certain skin types, while others credit her methods with transforming their skin. The discussion underscores the importance of tailoring skincare routines to individual needs and skin type. While some people may find success in a minimalist approach, others may benefit from a gentle morning cleanse to maintain a balanced complexion.
Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to cleanse in the morning is a personal one. Consider your skin type, your environment, and your individual needs. Experiment with different approaches and listen to your skin. Pay close attention to how your skin responds; if it’s thriving with a minimalist routine, embrace it. But if it seems dull or feels unbalanced, a gentle morning cleanse may be a better option for you. The key is to find what truly works best for you and to adapt your routine accordingly to maintain healthy, radiant skin.
