What is the 60 Second Skin Hack?

The 60-second skin hack has become one of the most talked-about skincare trends on social media, with many people claiming that simply spending longer washing your face can improve your complexion. Also known as the 60-second rule, the viral skincare trend encourages slowing down your face washing routine by massaging a cleanser over the skin for a full minute before rinsing. Supporters believe this extra time helps remove excess sebum, sunscreen, make-up and daily build-up while supporting more thorough cleansing without adding extra products.

In this guide, the UK Meds clinical team explains where the viral method came from, whether there is any honest evidence behind it and if it is actually worth it. We also look at how this approach fits into a sensible skincare routine, what it means for the skin barrier and why clinically grounded advice is more reliable than following trends alone.

In One Sentence:

The 60-second skin hack encourages spending a full minute gently cleansing your face, and while there is no strong evidence that 60 seconds itself transforms skin, slowing down and cleansing thoroughly with your fingertips can be a beneficial habit for many skin types.

Key Takeaways

• What is the 60-second skin hack? 

It is a social media trend that recommends using a gentle cleanser for a full minute instead of a quick rinse to encourage a more thorough, gentle cleanse.

• Who came up with it? 

The idea was popularised by Nayamka Roberts-Smith, also known as LaBeautyologist, rather than by medical research or the NHS.

• Does it actually work? 

There is an unproven benefit to the exact timing, but taking longer to cleanse gently may help reduce missed areas while avoiding skin irritation caused by rushing or harsh techniques.

• Is it good for acne? 

Cleansing is an important part of skincare, but acne usually requires evidence-based treatment rather than relying on a social media trend. Avoid over-washing, use an appropriate moisturiser and follow treatment advice for your skin condition where needed.

• Should I use an exfoliating wash or a brush? What matters most? 

Avoid using an exfoliating wash, strong acids or a cleansing brush for a full minute every day. Using your fingers versus a cleansing brush with a gentle cleanser is usually kinder to the skin.

What is the 60-second rule, and where did it come from?

The 60-second rule is a face-washing method that recommends massaging a cleanser over your face for a full minute before rinsing.

The face-washing method became popular after Nayamka Roberts-Smith, better known online as LaBeautyologist, shared the technique on social media. As a licensed esthetician and skincare influencer, she encouraged people to spend more time cleansing instead of rushing through their routine. Her advice quickly spread through the #60SecondRule hashtag, becoming a viral trend across multiple platforms.

The principle is straightforward. Rather than carrying out a 15-second cleanse, users massage their cleanser across the face for a full minute, moving from the forehead to the jaw before rinsing thoroughly. The approach requires no gadgets, expensive devices or new products. Instead, it focuses on changing an everyday habit by slowing down.

Many people found the idea appealing because it was simple, free and easy to adopt. Instead of buying another serum or cream, the method suggested making better use of products people already owned. This also helped distinguish it from many viral skincare trends that rely on introducing new ingredients or complicated routines.

Although the 60-second rule has become extremely popular, it is important to remember that it originated as practical skincare advice rather than as a medically validated recommendation. The popularity of the method should not be confused with scientific proof that exactly 60 seconds is superior to any other cleansing time.

Does the 60-second rule actually benefit your skin?

The 60-second rule may encourage more thorough cleansing, but there is no strong evidence that spending exactly one minute washing your face produces unique skin benefits.

From a practical perspective, there are sensible reasons why slowing down can help. A longer cleanse gives people more opportunity to use gentle fingertip pressure to work around the hairline, jawline and nose, which are areas that are commonly missed during rushed routines. This can improve make-up removal, lift away sunscreen, remove sweat, reduce excess surface sebum and wash away pollution collected throughout the day.

This appears to be more of a behavioural benefit than a biological one. People who slow down naturally pay greater attention to technique and are less likely to miss areas of the face. The improvement may come from better cleansing habits rather than the stopwatch itself.

Cleanser

Equally important is how the cleanser is used. A gentle technique with light circular movements is very different from harsh scrubbing. Rubbing aggressively or applying excessive pressure does not clean the skin more effectively and may instead increase irritation.

The cleanser itself also matters. A rinse-off cleanser containing ingredients such as salicylic acid behaves differently from a leave-on treatment. Although spending slightly longer massaging a cleanser may improve the removal of oil and debris, there is little evidence that increasing contact time from 15 or 30 seconds to 60 seconds significantly boosts the performance of active ingredients. Treatments designed to remain on the skin are generally far more important for concerns such as hyperpigmentation, acne or improving skin texture.

Complexion

Claims that the 60-second rule alone can dramatically transform the complexion are therefore likely to be an oversimplification. At present, there remains a lack of verified studies demonstrating that exactly one minute of cleansing produces superior clinical outcomes compared with other gentle cleansing routines.

Protecting the Skin Barrier

Another important consideration is protecting the skin barrier. The outer layer of the skin helps prevent excessive transepidermal water loss (TEWL) while shielding the body from irritants. Excessive cleansing, prolonged exposure to harsh cleansers or repeated over-cleansing and over-washing may weaken this barrier, particularly in people with dry or sensitive skin.

Research

Research has consistently shown that cleanser formulation is often more important than cleansing duration. Cleansers containing harsh surfactants or those with a high pH can disrupt the skin barrier, leading to dryness, irritation and the tight feeling many people experience after washing. Products formulated closer to the skin's natural pH are generally considered gentler on the barrier and may reduce irritation [1].

"The minute is not the magic. The biggest improvement often comes from stopping rushing through your routine and avoiding a scrubbing brush. A thorough gentle hands-only cleanse is good practice for many people, but you do not need a stopwatch to achieve healthy skin. It is also important to remember that cleansing alone will not treat acne or pigmentation, and over-washing can create new skin problems."

What it Genuinely Helps With

The 60-second skin hack may help people cleanse more carefully and consistently, but it should be viewed as a way to improve technique rather than as a treatment in its own right.

One of the biggest advantages is that it encourages people to slow down. Many people wash their face in less than 20 seconds, often focusing on the centre of the face while missing the hairline, around the nose and beneath the jaw. Spending a little longer with a gentle cleanser can make it easier to remove sunscreen, make-up, excess oil and daily grime from these commonly overlooked areas.

The method may also encourage healthier skincare habits overall. Someone who is taking time to cleanse properly may also be more likely to moisturise afterwards, wear SPF during the day and avoid harsh scrubbing. These habits have a greater impact on long-term skin health than simply watching the clock.

For people who wear make-up every day or regularly apply water-resistant sunscreen, a slower cleanse can also reduce the temptation to scrub aggressively. Instead, allowing the cleanser to work while gently massaging it across the skin often removes residue more effectively than applying extra pressure.

Ultimately, the value of the 60-second rule is behavioural. It encourages a more mindful approach to cleansing, which may improve consistency without introducing unnecessary products or complicated routines.

What is Overstated

The idea that exactly 60 seconds will transform your skin is not supported by strong clinical evidence.

Social media videos often suggest that one minute of cleansing alone can clear acne, reduce enlarged pores, fade pigmentation or dramatically improve skin texture within days. These claims go far beyond what is currently supported by research.

Skin concerns such as acne, rosacea, eczema, hyperpigmentation and persistent dryness have complex causes. While a good cleansing routine supports healthy skin, it is only one part of an effective skincare plan. Most conditions require appropriate skincare products and, in some cases, evidence-based medical treatments.

It is also important to remember that more cleansing is not always better. Extending cleansing time with a gentle product may be reasonable for many people, but repeatedly washing the skin with harsh cleansers or exfoliating products can disrupt the skin barrier. Once this barrier becomes compromised, irritation, dryness and increased sensitivity may follow.

Rather than treating 60 seconds as a rule that everyone must follow, it is more accurate to think of it as a reminder to cleanse thoroughly without becoming excessive.

How to do the 60-Second Cleanse Properly

The 60-second cleanse should involve gentle cleansing with light pressure rather than vigorous scrubbing.

Following a simple routine helps remove daily build-up while minimising unnecessary irritation.

1. Apply

Start by wetting your face with lukewarm water before applying a gentle cleanser to damp skin.

Avoid very hot water, as this can contribute to dryness and irritation. Use clean fingertips rather than a cleansing brush to spread the cleanser evenly across your face.

2. Massage

Using light pressure, perform a circular massage across your face for around 60 seconds.

This should be a gentle massage, not a scrub. There is no need to rub aggressively or press firmly into the skin. Let the cleanser do the work while your fingertips move smoothly over the surface.

3. Cover everywhere

Make sure you cleanse every part of your face rather than concentrating only on the middle.

Pay particular attention to the hairline, around the jaw, the sides of the nose and under the chin, as these are common areas that people miss during a rushed routine.

Using your fingers, not a cleansing brush, also helps you control the amount of pressure applied, reducing the likelihood of irritation.

4. Rinse and dry

After approximately 60 seconds, rinse your face thoroughly using lukewarm water.

Remove all traces of cleanser before gently patting your skin dry with a clean towel. Avoid rubbing the towel over your face, as friction can contribute to irritation, particularly if your skin is already sensitive.

5. Moisturise promptly

Apply a moisturise promptly approach by using your moisturiser while the skin is still slightly damp.

This helps lock in hydration after cleansing. During the day, finish your routine by applying SPF to protect your skin from ultraviolet damage.

For most people, cleansing twice a day maximum is sufficient. Cleansing more frequently rarely offers additional benefits and may increase the risk of irritation.

A skincare routine based on a gentle cleanser followed by moisturiser is supported by research in people with mild acne and sensitive skin, reinforcing the importance of pairing effective cleansing with barrier-supporting hydration rather than relying on cleansing alone [2].

Which cleanser should you use for your skin type?

The best cleanser depends on your skin type, but most people benefit from choosing a gentle cleanser that cleans effectively without stripping the skin.

Oily skin or blemish-prone skin

People with oily skin or blemish-prone skin often prefer a gel cleanser or foaming cleanser that removes excess oil without leaving the skin feeling tight.

Ingredients such as niacinamide, zinc and salicylic acid may be helpful depending on your skin concerns. However, remember that rinse-off products have a rinse-off limitation, meaning they spend relatively little time on the skin. If you require active treatment for acne, a leave-on treatment will usually provide greater benefit than relying solely on your cleanser.

Dry skin or sensitive skin

Those with dry skin or sensitive skin generally benefit from a cream cleanser or hydrating cleanser.

Look for non-foaming formulas containing ingredients such as ceramides, hyaluronic acid and glycerin, which help support hydration while cleansing. These cleansers are less likely to leave the skin feeling stripped after washing.

Combination skin

If you have combination skin, a balancing gel cleanser is often a practical option.

The aim is to remove excess oil from the T-zone while avoiding unnecessary dryness on the cheeks. Gentle formulations usually provide the best balance for everyday use without disrupting the skin barrier.

Which cleansers should you avoid for the 60-second method?

Not every cleanser is suitable for prolonged daily massage.

An exfoliating wash or acid wash should generally not be used for a full minute every day unless specifically advised by a healthcare professional. These products are designed to exfoliate the skin, and prolonged contact may increase the likelihood of irritation, particularly in people with sensitive skin.

Instead, reserve exfoliating products for occasional use if appropriate, while using a gentle cleanser for your regular morning and evening routine.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

The biggest mistakes with the 60-second skin hack involve cleansing too aggressively, too often or with the wrong products.

The goal is to clean the skin thoroughly while protecting the skin barrier. Doing more than necessary rarely improves results and may increase irritation instead.

Scrubbing hard, or using a cleansing brush

Scrubbing your face vigorously or relying on a cleansing brush for a full minute every day can increase friction and contribute to skin barrier damage.

Many people assume harder scrubbing removes more dirt, but this is not how cleansing works. A gentle cleanser combined with your fingertips is usually enough to remove sunscreen, excess oil and daily build-up. Aggressive scrubbing may leave the skin red, sore or sensitive without providing additional cleansing benefits.

Using an exfoliating or acid wash for a full 60 seconds daily

An exfoliating wash or acid wash should not usually be massaged into the skin for a full minute every day.

Products containing exfoliating acids or physical exfoliants are designed to remove dead skin cells. Prolonged daily contact may increase the likelihood of irritation, particularly if the skin is already sensitive. Over time, this can contribute to a compromised barrier, making the skin feel dry, sting or become more reactive.

Instead, reserve exfoliating products for occasional use if they suit your skin, and use a gentle cleanser for your regular cleansing routine.

Washing too often

More cleansing does not necessarily mean healthier skin.

Over-cleansing and over-washing can remove too much of the skin's natural oil, increasing dryness and irritation. According to the NHS, washing the face twice a day maximum is usually sufficient, particularly for acne-prone skin. Cleansing more frequently may irritate the skin rather than improve it [3].

Evidence from a randomised clinical trial also supports washing with a mild cleanser twice daily, showing this frequency may help improve some acne-related skin changes compared with washing only once daily [4].

Using hot water

Very hot water can contribute to stripping skin of its natural oils.

Using lukewarm water is generally kinder to the skin and may help reduce unnecessary irritation. Extremely hot water can leave the skin feeling tight after cleansing, particularly in people with dry or sensitive skin.

Skipping moisturiser

One of the most common mistakes is skipping moisturiser after cleansing.

Applying moisturiser soon after washing helps reduce skin drying out by supporting the skin barrier while the skin is still slightly damp. Paying attention to moisturiser timing is a simple way to retain hydration and improve comfort following cleansing.

"If your skin feels tight, squeaky, or stingy after washing, your cleansing routine has probably been overdone. That feeling is a warning sign rather than evidence that your skin is cleaner. Try to reduce frequency, avoid using an exfoliating wash every day and limit these products to twice a week maximum unless advised otherwise. Giving your skin barrier recovery time while keeping your routine gentle and consistent is usually far more beneficial than cleansing harder or for longer."

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I do the 60-second skin hack every day?

Yes, provided you are using a gentle cleanser and your skin tolerates it well.

For most people, cleansing once or twice a day is appropriate. If your skin becomes tight, dry, or irritated, consider using a milder cleanser or reducing how often you cleanse. Paying attention to how your skin responds is more important than following a strict rule.

Does the 60-second rule help with acne?

The 60-second rule may support thorough cleansing, but it does not treat acne.

While removing excess oil, sunscreen and dirt is an important part of skincare, cleansing alone is unlikely to resolve acne. In fact, over-washing may contribute to irritation and could risk worsening acne in some people.

For persistent acne, NICE recommends evidence-based treatment, including options such as benzoyl peroxide and topical retinoids, depending on the type and severity of acne [5].

Can I use an exfoliating wash for 60 seconds?

Generally, no.

An exfoliating wash containing acids or physical grains is not usually intended for prolonged daily contact. This may increase the risk of skin barrier damage, particularly if used every day.

Instead, use a gentle cleanser for your daily routine and keep exfoliation as a separate exfoliation step carried out less frequent use, according to the product instructions or professional advice.

Is 60 seconds really better than 30?

There is no strong evidence that a specific time such as 60 seconds is superior to a 30-second cleanse.

What matters most is cleansing thoroughly but gently, making sure you remove make-up, sunscreen and daily build-up without irritating the skin. For some people, this may naturally take around a minute, while others may achieve the same result slightly sooner.

Should I use a cleansing brush for the full minute?

For most people, no.

Using your fingertips provides a gentler technique than many cleansing brushes. Some brushes may increase abrasiveness, particularly with daily use. The method creator's recommendation has also consistently focused on using clean hands rather than cleansing devices.

Final Thoughts From Our Clinical Team

“The 60-second skin hack is best viewed as an honest assessment of a simple skincare habit rather than a revolutionary treatment. If you tend to rush your routine, slowing down can be a small upgrade that helps reduce rushed cleansing and avoid missed areas around the hairline, nose and jaw. Using your fingers, not a brush, allows for better control and encourages thoroughness without unnecessary friction.

There is no magic in reaching exactly 60 seconds, and there is little evidence that the timing alone changes levels of sebum, improves hyperpigmentation or treats acne. The current lack of evidence means the method should not replace proven skincare or medical treatment. Equally, it is important to avoid over-washing or using harsh exfoliating washes, as these habits may contribute to skin barrier damage.

A sensible routine built around gentle cleansing, cleansing twice a day maximum, regular moisturiser and appropriate treatment for your skin condition is far more likely to support healthy skin over time. If you have persistent acne or another skin concern, a pharmacist can advise on proven treatments that are supported by clinical guidance rather than relying on a viral hack.

Focus on consistency, protecting the skin barrier and choosing evidence-based skincare that suits your individual needs.”

Sources

[1] Cleansing without compromise: the impact of cleansers on the skin barrier and the technology of mild cleansing - Ananthapadmanabhan - 2004 - Dermatologic Therapy - Wiley Online Library

[2] Efficacy of the combined use of a facial cleanser and moisturizers for the care of mild acne patients with sensitive skin - Isoda - 2015 - The Journal of Dermatology - Wiley Online Library

[3] Acne - NHS

[4] A Single‐Blinded, Randomized, Controlled Clinical Trial Evaluating the Effect of Face Washing on Acne Vulgaris - Choi - 2006 - Pediatric Dermatology - Wiley Online Library

[5] Recommendations | Acne vulgaris: management | Guidance | NICE