Hello skincare enthusiasts! If you’ve been keeping up with the newest trends in skincare you’ve probably heard of double cleansing. Double cleansing is a popular term that you’ve likely seen everywhere from TikTok to Instagram to dermatologist advice. But is it really worth the hype?
I’ll explain what double cleansing is in this post, who can use it and if it’s worth including in your skincare regimen. Additionally I will be responding to all of your urgent queries such as Can double cleansing help acne? and What should come first in double cleansing? Let’s get started!
In this Article,
What Is Double Cleansing?
Double cleansing is essentially a two-step face washing technique. An oil-based cleanser is used first and then a water-based cleanser. Oil-based pollutants such as sunscreen makeup and excess sebum (oil) are eliminated in the first step. Sweat grime and pollutants from the environment are eliminated in the second step.
A deeper cleanse is achieved when they work together leaving your skin clear of all residue. Even though Korean skincare routines are the origin of this technique, social media has helped it become widely popular. When done correctly double cleansing can leave your face feeling clean, refreshed and prepared for the remainder of your skincare regimen. It involves completely cleansing your skin without depleting it of its natural moisture.
Can You Double Cleanse with the Same Cleanser?
The short answer to another frequently asked question is that you cannot double cleanse using the same cleanser for both steps. The two stages of double cleansing should use different kinds of cleansers—oil-based and water-based—to maximize its benefits.
A water-based cleanser (such as a gel or foam cleanser) is ideal for the second step which involves removing perspiration and dirt while an oil-based cleanser is ideal for the first step because it binds to the oil and breaks down sunscreen and makeup.
What Should Come First in Double Cleansing?
Always start with the oil-based cleanser when doing double cleansing. It eliminates excess sebum makeup sunscreen and other oil-based contaminants that are impossible to get rid of with water alone. You rinse it off and then use a water-based cleanser to get rid of any last bits of dirt perspiration and residue for a really clean and balanced face. Your skin will be perfectly prepared for the remainder of your skincare routine if you follow this methodical approach.
Double Cleansing for Different Skin Types
Before we get into the specifics of double cleansing it’s critical to understand that the way this technique works will vary based on your skin type. Let’s examine your skin type whether it is combination oily or dry.
Double Cleansing for Oily Skin
A game-changer for people with oily skin is double cleansing. Although you may believe that your skin produces enough oil on its own, oily skin frequently results in breakouts and clogged pores.
The first step which involves using an oil-based cleanser to break down excess sebum (oil) and remove sunscreen makeup and other impurities can help with double cleansing. Sweat and debris are eliminated from the skin’s surface in the second step which involves using a mild water-based cleanser.
Selecting the appropriate products is crucial such as a mild non-stripping water-based cleanser to balance your skin and a gentle oil-based cleanser that won’t clog pores. This procedure guarantees that you’re cleaning completely without increasing oil production.
Double Cleansing for Dry Skin
Double cleansing can be very helpful for people with dry skin but you must be careful not to deplete your skin’s natural moisture content. While maintaining the moisture content of your skin the oil-based cleanser will assist in eliminating stubborn sunscreen and makeup.
To prevent over-drying the water-based cleanser should be mild and hydrating. To maintain soft moisturized skin I advise dry skin types to use a hydrating oil-based cleanser first then a mild non-foaming water-based cleanser. Additionally by eliminating the day’s pollutants without irritating your skin, double cleansing can help keep your skin from feeling tight and dry.
Double Cleaning and Acne
If you’re having acne you may be wondering if double cleansing can help clear up breakouts. The answer is that it can, if done properly, reduce acne by making sure that all impurities, excess oil and clogged pores are removed.
For acne-prone skin double cleansing entails using a mild non-stripping water-based cleanser after an oil-based cleanser that won’t clog pores. Choose non-comedogenic (pore-clogging) products that won’t make the issue worse.
Double Cleansing Method
- To start start with dry skin and use an oil-based cleanser (such as oil or cleansing balm) to remove sebum sunscreen and makeup. For one to two minutes massage gently.
- Use lukewarm water to rinse.
- Use your water-based cleanser (such as a gel or foam cleanser) on wet skin to get rid of perspiration and any residue that may have remained. Rinse well and massage once more.
- After patting dry with a fresh towel apply your usual skincare products.
Double Cleansing with Other Skin Care Routines
Lets now examine a few typical skincare analogies to double cleansing. A useful table that covers everything from exfoliation to acne benefits can be found here.
| Topic | Explanation |
| Double cleansing and acne | By completely eliminating oil makeup and debris double cleansing helps prevent clogged pores and clear acne |
| Double cleansing vs single cleansing | A deeper clean is achieved by double cleansing which uses two steps whereas single cleansing might leave residue |
| Double cleansing and exfoliating | Exfoliation cannot be replaced by double cleansing but it can help prepare your skin for more effective exfoliation |
| Double cleansing once or twice a day | You can double cleanse once or twice a day, but it’s best to start with once a day, especially for dry skin |
| Double cleansing or micellar water | Micellar water may not be able to remove heavy makeup but double cleansing results in a deeper more complete cleanse |
| Double cleansing and tretinoin | Double cleansing can help remove residual tretinoin and ensure your skin absorbs treatments effectively. |
| Double cleansing morning or night | The best time to double cleanse is at night to get rid of the pollutants from the day sunscreen and makeup |
Best Products for Double Cleansing
You will require the appropriate products to maximize the benefits of double cleansing if you are prepared to embark on this regimen. Some of the best products for various skin types and concerns are listed below.
For Oily Skin:
- Deep Cleaning Oil by DHC. For oily skin this oil-based cleanser works wonders. It unclogs pores while dissolving excess oil and makeup.
- Facial Cleanser with CeraVe Foam. Use this mild non-foaming water-based cleanser after using an oil-based one. It is ideal for achieving skin balance without causing excessive drying.
For Dry Skin:
- Zero Cleansing Balm by Banila Co. This hydrating cleansing balm with an oil base is ideal for dry skin. It keeps skin hydrated while gently removing debris and makeup.
- Water Gel Cleanser with Neutrogena Hydro Boost. Packed with hyaluronic acid this mild water-based cleanser hydrates and keeps your skin from feeling tight after cleansing.
For Combination Skin:
- Midnight Recovery Botanical Cleansing Oil by Kiehls. This oil-based cleanser is perfect for combination skin because it leaves skin feeling soft and balanced after removing makeup.
- La Roche-Posay Hydrating Gentle Cleanser with Toleriane. This is an excellent water-based cleanser that removes impurities without dehydrating sensitive or combination skin.
Conclusion: Is Double Cleansing Worth It?
The benefits of double cleansing for oily skin, dry skin acne and exfoliation have been well documented so I think it’s safe to say that double cleansing is more than just a TikTok fad. When done properly double cleansing ensures that your skin receives the maximum benefit from your skincare products, provides deeper cleansing and helps prevent acne.
Your skin type will determine whether you should double cleanse in the morning or at night but it’s obvious that this technique can enhance your skincare regimen and leave your skin feeling healthier and cleaner. In order to find out if it works for you, try it!
For more information on skin exfoliation and why it’s crucial to your entire skin care regimen read my post on scalp exfoliation.
Happy cleansing!
FAQs
- What double cleansing means?
Double cleansing is the process of completely cleaning your skin with an oil-based cleanser and then a water-based cleanser.
- Why double cleansing is important?
Oil-based contaminants that a single cleanser might overlook such as sunscreen and makeup are eliminated by it.
- When double cleansing what comes first?
A water-based cleanser should always come after an oil-based one.
- Can double cleansing cause breakouts?
Using comedogenic products or over cleansing sensitive skin can result in breakouts.
- Will double cleansing help acne?
Yes it helps unclog pores which can help prevent and lessen acne.
- How double cleansing works?
Sweat and residue are eliminated by the water-based cleanser while oil-based dirt is dissolved by the oil-based cleanser.