Double cleansing has become one of the most talked-about skincare techniques in recent years, and for good reason. This method, which originated in Korean skincare routines, involves using two different types of cleansers to thoroughly remove makeup, sunscreen, and impurities from your skin. If you have been curious about double cleansing but are unsure how to do it correctly, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know.
What Is Double Cleansing?
Double cleansing is exactly what it sounds like—cleansing your face twice, using two different types of products. The first cleanse typically uses an oil-based product, such as micellar water, cleansing oil, or cleansing balm. This initial step breaks down oil-soluble impurities like makeup, sunscreen, sebum, and environmental pollutants.
The second cleanse uses a water-based cleanser, such as a gentle foaming cleanser, gel cleanser, or cream cleanser. This step removes any remaining residue from the first cleanse and addresses water-based impurities like sweat and dirt. Together, these two steps ensure your skin is thoroughly clean without being stripped of its natural moisture.
đź’ˇ The Science Behind It
Oil dissolves oil—this fundamental chemistry principle is why using an oil-based cleanser first is so effective. Water-based cleansers alone cannot fully break down oil-based products like sunscreen and long-wear makeup.
Why Should You Double Cleanse?
Many Australians apply multiple layers of products to their skin throughout the day: moisturiser, sunscreen (essential in our harsh UV environment), primer, foundation, and more. A single cleanse often cannot remove all these layers effectively, leaving behind residue that can clog pores and prevent your skincare products from penetrating properly.
Double cleansing ensures that your skin is truly clean, creating the ideal canvas for your serums, treatments, and moisturisers to work their magic. Think of it like washing dishes—you would not just rinse a greasy pan and expect it to be clean. The same principle applies to your skin.
Benefits of double cleansing include:
- More thorough makeup removal: No more waking up with mascara smudges on your pillow
- Better product absorption: Clean skin absorbs serums and treatments more effectively
- Fewer breakouts: Removing pore-clogging impurities helps prevent acne
- Improved skin texture: Regular double cleansing can lead to smoother, more radiant skin
- Balanced skin: Proper cleansing helps regulate oil production over time
Step-by-Step Double Cleansing Guide
Step 1: The First Cleanse (Oil-Based)
Begin with dry hands and a dry face. Apply your chosen oil-based cleanser generously across your skin. If using micellar water, saturate a cotton pad and gently sweep it across your face. If using a cleansing oil or balm, massage it into your skin using circular motions for at least sixty seconds.
Pay special attention to areas where you wear heavy makeup, such as the eyes and lips. For stubborn waterproof mascara, hold your micellar-soaked cotton pad against your closed eye for ten to fifteen seconds before gently wiping away. This dissolves the product more effectively than rubbing.
If using a cleansing oil or balm, add a small amount of water to emulsify the product. You will notice it turns milky white—this indicates that the oil is mixing with water and will rinse away cleanly. Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water.
âś… Key Takeaway
Never skip the first cleanse if you have been wearing sunscreen, even on days when you do not wear makeup. Sunscreen is designed to be water-resistant and requires an oil-based cleanser for complete removal.
Step 2: The Second Cleanse (Water-Based)
With your skin still damp from the first cleanse, apply your water-based cleanser. Work it into a lather using gentle circular motions, focusing on areas prone to congestion such as the nose, chin, and forehead. Take your time with this step—rushing through it defeats the purpose of double cleansing.
Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water, ensuring no cleanser residue remains. Pat your face dry with a clean, soft towel rather than rubbing, which can cause unnecessary friction and irritation.
Choosing the Right Products
First Cleanse Options
For the oil-based step, you have several options depending on your preferences and skin type:
- Micellar water: Lightweight and no-rinse, perfect for sensitive skin or quick cleansing
- Cleansing oil: Luxurious and effective, ideal for dry to normal skin types
- Cleansing balm: Rich and nourishing, great for dry or mature skin
- Cleansing milk: Gentle and hydrating, suitable for sensitive or reactive skin
Second Cleanse Options
Your water-based cleanser should complement your skin type:
- Gel cleansers: Refreshing and purifying, best for oily or combination skin
- Foam cleansers: Light and thorough, suitable for normal to oily skin
- Cream cleansers: Gentle and hydrating, ideal for dry or sensitive skin
- Micellar gel: A hybrid option that combines the benefits of both types
⚠️ Common Mistake
Using water that is too hot can strip your skin's natural oils and cause redness. Always use lukewarm water for both cleansing steps.
When Should You Double Cleanse?
Double cleansing is most beneficial in the evening when you need to remove the day's accumulation of makeup, sunscreen, and environmental pollutants. In the morning, a single gentle cleanse is usually sufficient since your skin has not been exposed to external impurities overnight.
However, if you have particularly oily skin or used heavy overnight treatments, you may benefit from a modified double cleanse in the morning using micellar water followed by a gentle water-based cleanser.
Double Cleansing for Different Skin Types
While double cleansing benefits most skin types, the specific approach may vary:
Sensitive skin: Use fragrance-free products and avoid excessive rubbing. Micellar water is an excellent first cleanse option as it requires minimal friction.
Oily or acne-prone skin: Choose non-comedogenic products and ensure you rinse thoroughly. Look for second cleansers containing salicylic acid or tea tree for additional clarifying benefits.
Dry skin: Opt for nourishing oil-based cleansers and cream-based second cleansers. Avoid foaming cleansers that may be too drying.
Combination skin: Focus your second cleanse on the oilier areas of your face while being gentler on drier areas.
đź’Ž Pro Tip
If you find double cleansing too drying, try using micellar water for both steps—it provides thorough cleansing without disrupting your skin's moisture barrier.
Conclusion
Double cleansing may seem like an extra step in an already busy routine, but the benefits are well worth the minimal additional time investment. By thoroughly removing all traces of makeup, sunscreen, and daily grime, you create the perfect foundation for the rest of your skincare routine to work effectively.
Start incorporating double cleansing into your evening routine and observe how your skin responds over the following weeks. Many people notice improved clarity, fewer breakouts, and better overall skin texture. Your perfectly clean skin will absorb your expensive serums and treatments more effectively, making every product in your routine work harder for you.