I’m always down for a self-indulgent moment, especially when it comes to skincare. But thanks to Covid-19, many of us have found ourselves with a little more time on our hands than usual. I think it’s the perfect excuse to give our skin a little TLC. And a good way to start is perfecting a double cleansing process.
A lot of people are under the assumption the most important step of your skincare routine should be the treatment step, where the most concentrated active ingredients are, and where you’re likely to see results. However, your subsequent products are going to have a hard time penetrating skin that hasn’t been cleansed. A deep clean is important, especially at night. Not only is it important to remove makeup and sweat at night to prevent breakouts, even those who forgo makeup all together should think about their cleansing routine. Throughout the day, environmental pollutants and bacteria can linger on your skin leading to breakouts, hyperpigmentation, and premature aging. Pass.
Enter the double cleanse.
What Is Double Cleansing In the First Place?
So what exactly is double cleansing? Well … to be honest, it’s exactly what it sounds like — cleansing twice. Double cleansing became popular in South Korea and Japan before migrating west to Europe and North America and involves using 2 cleansers, one right after the other. The idea is you’ll first use an oil based, emollient cleanser to break up SPF/makeup/oils/dirt/etc., and second you’ll use a water based to cleanser to clean the skin. Though there isn’t an exact guideline to what type of cleanser you need to use. It’s more so focused on the act of removing impurities from the skin’s surface first and cleansing the skin second.
Why Double Cleansing?
Now we know what it is, but why is double cleansing necessary? Is it necessary? I think so, and since I started a few years ago, it almost feels incorrect to do it any other way. Especially if you wear a full face of makeup, one go with a makeup wipe isn’t going to cut it. It won’t remove the impurities and makeup from the face more than just move it around. And if you do go in with a cleanser after, all you’re doing is removing that broken up makeup. You aren’t necessarily giving your skin a good cleanse.
Double cleansing is the best way to ensure your skin is clear of every scrap of SPF, dirt, makeup, etc. before you go to bed at night. And we all know we’re supposed to go to bed with a washed face to prevent breakouts. That’s true. But there are other reasons to make sure your face is very clean.
A double cleanse will ensure your cleanser is able to penetrate and deeply cleanse your actual skin and pores. Using your face cleanser on top of a layer of pollution or makeup won’t effectively allow the good ingredients in your cleanser to have any effect on the skin. Ensuring your skin is clear will also allow for better cell turnover over night, leading to more radiant, plump, and youthful looking skin. It will also allow the other products in your skincare routine penetrate the skin.
How to Do It
If you’ve washed your face before, you already have the skills needed to double cleanse. And how your double cleanse works will depend on your preferred first step. We’ll talk about different types of cleansers in a minute.
I typically use cleansing oils or balms as my first cleanse. And they typically are applied to dry skin.
- First dispense your cleansing oil or balm into the palm of your hand. With the opposite hand, apply to wet or dry skin, rubbing in gentle circular motions, including the eye area, for about 45-60 seconds. If using a cleansing cloth, run the cloth over the skin and eye area in gentle motions, using both side if necessary.
- Rinse or gently remove cleanser with a soft, wet washcloth.
I often remove this first step with a reusable cotton round* and will repeat it until nothing comes off onto the cotton. 2-3 times if necessary. - Next, dispense your regular cleanser and work it into the skin for 30-60 seconds. Rinse, and pat dry with a soft towel.
My Favorite Cleansers for Double Cleansing
As I said, we’re going to talk briefly about different types of cleansing products and highlight a couple of my favorites. All work the same, but some are better suited for different skin types.
For example, you may be nervous to try a cleansing oil if you have oily skin. While there are plenty of oils suited for oily skin*, that’s a fair fear. Maybe try a balm* instead. If you’re kind of lazy and want a no fuss first cleanse, a cleansing cloth* may be best suited for you. And if you want to keep your skincare cabinet to a minimum, you can find a cleanser that is also designed to effectively remove makeup. I have used a little of all of it. But I do have some favorites you can shop below.
Have you jumped on the double cleansing bandwagon yet?
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