We Touch Our Faces 23 Times Per Hour on Average
Most face-touching is unconscious, making it nearly impossible to stop even when we try.
The Unconscious Habit
Research shows that [[people](/post/creativity-tiredness)](/post/why-we-trust-confident-people-even-when-they-are-wrong) touch their faces an average of 23 times per hour—and we're almost never aware we're doing it.
Why Do We Do This?
Face-touching serves several purposes:
- Self-soothing during stress
- Thinking and concentration
- Comfort and reassurance
- Grooming behaviors
The Challenge of Stopping
Even when specifically told not to touch their faces, people in studies touched their faces an average of 3 times per hour. It's deeply ingrained behavior.
Health Implications
This habit is why hand hygiene is so crucial. Your hands pick up germs from surfaces, then transfer them to your face's mucous membranes.
Breaking the Habit
Awareness is the first step. Try:
- Keeping hands busy
- Sitting on your hands
- Using fidget tools
- Practicing mindfulness
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Frequently Asked Questions
Face-touching serves multiple purposes including self-soothing during stress, aiding concentration, and habitual grooming behaviors. Most of it is completely unconscious.
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