Morning or Night: The Best Time To Shower, Wash Your Face, and More

There are two types of people in the world: those who can’t start their day without taking a shower, and those who can't bear the thought of crawling into bed without lathering up. In other words, there are morning shower people and nighttime shower people (and it’s a fairly even split, according to the Sleep Foundation). If you’ve ever wondered which is the better choice — or if when you shower matters at all — you’re not the only one. While ultimately, you can (and should) soap up whenever you choose, there are certain factors that may make one option better than the other. Keep reading to learn why — and for tips on getting the most out of your shower and overall wellness routine. 

Morning vs. Evening Shower: Which Is Better? 

Where shower timing is concerned, “it’s all about what makes you feel good,” Simone Hopes, PA-C, says. “Morning showers can energize you and kick-start your day,” she adds, while nighttime showers can wash away all the grime — dirt, sweat, air pollution — you come into contact with throughout the day. Some research also suggests that taking a warm shower an hour or two before bed can help you fall asleep faster. 

There are things to consider, however. If you’re a sweaty sleeper, it may be a good idea to shower in the morning so you can start your day fresh (literally). Evening showers, on the other hand, are well suited for those with active lifestyles or manual jobs, or those who tend to sweat during the day. Showering at night can also help streamline your morning routine — a definite perk for those who like to sleep in.

Keep in mind that if you do opt to shower at night, you’ll want to make sure your hair is completely dry before hitting the sheets. Damp pillowcases are an ideal breeding ground for bacteria and fungus, frequent exposure to which can exacerbate skin concerns such as seborrheic dermatitis (a more severe form of dandruff). Hair is also more fragile when it’s wet, so tossing and turning on damp strands could lead to breakage. 

Broadly speaking, though, the time you shower doesn’t really matter very much. Find a schedule that works for you and stick with it. 

The Best Time To Wash Your Face

Unlike showering, which you can do pretty much anytime, you’ll typically want to wash your face at night. Some like a morning cleanse as well, but if you have dry or normal skin, it might not be needed. As board-certified dermatologist Dr. Abigail Waldman, M.D., FAAD, previously told us, your skin is exposed to less at night than it is during the daytime. “Washing your face at least once a day, at night, is recommended. For many people, it’s twice a day — but sometimes, that morning wash, you can do with just water,” she said. Those with oily skin or who are on an acne regimen might benefit from both morning and night cleanses. It’s also a good idea to give your face a thorough (but gentle) lathering after a heavy workout, too. 

Washing your face at night, like showering, helps remove all the grime you may have come into contact with throughout the day, as well as any makeup and sunscreen you applied. In the evening, you do want to use a cleanser to ensure a thorough clean. Opt for a gentle, nonstripping face wash to remove dirt without overdrying your skin. If you’re prone to breakouts or perioral dermatitis around your mouth, aim to brush your teeth before washing your face — lathering up after helps remove any toothpaste residue around your mouth that could irritate your skin.