We know. Being told to wash your face twice feels like one of those silly scams concocted by Big Skincare to get you to buy more face wash.
But we promise: Double cleansing isn’t only an essential part of your skincare routine—it’s one of the most important.
Think of it in some simple skincare maths: Double the cleansers. Double the benefits.
What is double cleansing?
It’s just what it sounds like. It’s washing your face twice, with two different cleansers.
First with an oil-based cleanser and then second with a water-based cleanser.
The Science Behind Double Cleansing
Double cleansing hinges on the science-y principle that ‘like dissolves like’.
Oil-based cleansers dissolve oil-soluble stuff (like makeup and sunscreens) to leave skin squeaky clean—but still hydrated. The high oil content of oil cleansers acts as a solvent and binds with those other oils. Be it: Makeup, sunscreen, excess sebum, your 3PM shine.
Water-based cleansers instead target the water-soluble stuff on your face, like sweat and dirt. Since the main ingredient is water, these types of cleansers tend to have a lighter feel that leaves skin clean and ready for skincare.
Without double cleansing, you run the risk of leaving behind impurities on your face—clogging your pores and making it difficult for the rest of your skincare routine to actually penetrate the skin.
Who Should (And Shouldn’t) Double Cleanse?
Ideally: Everyone. Because that’s how you effectively cleanse your skin of SPF. And everyone should be wearing SPF. Every day.
Plus! If you wear makeup on a daily basis, double cleansing is definitely for you. Water-based cleansers won’t be able to remove makeup on their own, likely to leave makeup residue, traces of sweat, and excess grime in its wake.
You don’t need to double cleanse in the AM. (Assuming you took your makeup off the night before!)
How To Double Cleanse The Right Way
The right way to double cleanse is with a great playlist and your comfiest of robes.
-
Start with an oil-based cleanser. (I like Fancy Face but any will do). Pumps into dry hands and massage all over your dry face (eyes included!) in gentle, circular motions for at least 30 seconds to dissolve all makeup and skincare.
-
Then, take a warm, damp cloth and gently wipe the face clean. Splash with water, then pat dry with a towel.
-
Follow on with a water-based cleanser. (I like Juicy Gel). Apply to a (wet) face and massage thoroughly. Rinse off.
-
Move on to your skincare (treatment products, serum/face oil, and night cream). It’s your skin, your call.
Common Myths And Misconceptions About Double Cleansing
“Double cleansing strips your skin.”
No—if you’re doing it right. There is such a thing as overcleansing. Which is when you cleanse your skin too thoroughly that it strips away natural oils and damages the skin barrier. Rest assured: This can be easily avoided for picking cleansers suited for your skin type (and being gentle when you cleanse your face).
“You don’t need it if you don’t wear makeup.”
Nope. Double cleansing is a great way to remove makeup but it also helps to remove SPF and other oils built up on your face over the day.
“It’s only for people with oily skin.”
Not at all. All skin types and concerns can benefit from a good double cleanse.
FAQs About Double Cleansing
Can I use the same cleanser twice instead of two different ones?
Double cleansing requires two different cleansers. One oil-based, followed by one water-based. The same cleanser won’t be able to effectively melt away all dirt and grime and you’ll run the risk of stripping your skin.
Will double cleansing dry out my skin?
It shouldn’t. But since you are using an oil-based cleanser, you are removing any built up sebum or unwanted oil over your face, it’s important to replenish with a hydrating moisturiser.
Do I need to double cleanse if I don’t wear makeup?
If you wear SPF—which you should—then yes. We’d recommend double cleansing.
What’s the best way to double cleanse for sensitive skin?
With sensitive-skin-safe oil-based cleansers and water-based cleansers. (I like Fancy Face followed by Juicy Gel but there’s plenty out there.)
Soft and Clean The ultimate one-two punch for soft, clean skin. Cleanse away SPF, makeup, or that adorable colony of pastry crumbs with Fancy Face and Properly Clean.Double Cleanse
Comments