Is it good to wash your face with purified water long-term?

Generally speaking, whether it is suitable to wash the face with purified water over a long period depends on individual skin type. For those with sensitive skin or living in areas with poor water quality, long-term use may offer certain benefits. However, for individuals with healthy skin and access to good-quality tap water, prolonged use of purified water is unnecessary—lukewarm water is sufficient for daily cleansing. Detailed analysis is as follows:

For individuals with sensitive skin or compromised skin barriers, purified water—free from impurities, chlorine, and minerals—can reduce skin irritation and help prevent redness and itching caused by poor water quality. Long-term use minimizes external irritants and supports stable skin barrier function, making it particularly beneficial during seasonal changes or periods of heightened skin sensitivity.

People with healthy skin have a natural ability to balance oil production and maintain protective barriers. Since purified water lacks the trace minerals found in natural water, long-term use may provide minimal nourishment. Moreover, it offers no significant cleansing advantage over lukewarm water; excessive reliance might even weaken the skin’s adaptive capacity.

For daily facial cleansing, lukewarm water is recommended, ideally at a temperature between 32–38°C. Use gentle cleansers and avoid aggressive scrubbing. Skincare routines should be tailored to skin type: those with sensitive skin should focus on hydration and barrier repair, while individuals with healthy skin can maintain optimal condition through basic cleansing and sun protection.