Blog Post: Brushing Teeth After Skincare? Why It Matters for Your Skin and Oral Health

🪥 Brushing Teeth After Skincare? Why It Matters for Your Skin and Oral Health

We all know that oral hygiene is important, but did you know that the order in which you brush your teeth and apply skincare can actually affect your skin? Small habits, like when you brush relative to your skincare routine, can have surprising consequences — especially for acne-prone or sensitive skin.

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🧴 The Science Behind the Sequence

When you brush your teeth, toothpaste, water, and sometimes saliva can splash onto your face. If you’ve already applied moisturizer, serum, or sunscreen, these splashes can wash away or dilute your products, reducing their effectiveness.

Scientific fact: A study in Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology (2020) found that leaving moisturizers and sunscreen undisturbed for at least 10 minutes after application ensures maximum absorption and barrier protection. Brushing your teeth afterward can partially remove these layers, especially from the jawline and chin — areas prone to breakouts.

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😬 How Brushing First Helps

1. Protects Your Skincare: Brushing first ensures that your products stay intact and fully absorbed.

2. Prevents Acne Triggering: Water or toothpaste residue on skin can interact with oil or serums, potentially clogging pores.

3. Reduces Irritation: Toothpaste contains fluoride, abrasives, and sometimes mint flavoring that can irritate the skin if it comes into contact after applying products.

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⏱️ Ideal Routine

Morning:

1. Brush your teeth first.

2. Rinse your face lightly if needed.

3. Apply cleanser → toner/serum → moisturizer → sunscreen.

Night:

1. Brush teeth first.

2. Cleanse face → apply night serum or moisturizer.

This simple sequence ensures that your skincare products get the full benefit of absorption while protecting both your skin and your oral health.

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💡 Dr. Rizwan’s Extra Tip:

Keep a small microfiber towel near your sink. After brushing, gently pat your jawline and chin to remove any stray water or toothpaste before applying skincare. This small step prevents potential pore clogging and reduces breakouts along the lower face.

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🌟 Final Thought

It’s a small habit with a big payoff. Brushing your teeth before skincare keeps your skin barrier intact, products effective, and your face free from irritation or clogged pores.

Healthy skin and a bright smile can coexist — with the right order.

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