What on Earth is double cleansing?

Skincare, SPF, foundation, makeup, every day we pack layers and layers of products onto our faces. But at the end of the day, our current cleansing methods may not be doing enough to take these layers off.

That’s why we need double-cleansing.

What is double cleansing?

Double cleansing is as simple as it sounds; basically, you wash your face twice. The catch is, to double cleanse, you need to use two different types of cleansers, an oil-based one and a water-based one.

This cleansing technique originally stemmed from countries like South Korea and Japan, where geishas often used the method to remove the heavy, white base from their faces. The trend then became a staple of the Korean ten-step routine, which has become immensely popular among Western countries.

What are the benefits of double cleansing?

Double cleansing works to ensure that your skin is properly clean before going in with the rest of your skincare routine.

Think about how oil reacts with water - usually, the two separate. So it makes sense that your water-based cleanser may not be strong enough to entirely remove the oils and oil-based products on your skin. By going in with an oil-based cleanser first, you can remove layers of makeup, SPF and dirt without the need to scrub at your face with a makeup wipe. Actually, an oil cleanser is probably one of the most effective makeup removers you’ll ever own.

Without having to cut through the noise, your water-based cleanser will then be able to offer a deeper cleanse.

Is double cleansing suitable for all skin types?

If you don’t tend to wear a lot of makeup, or even if you have extra oily or sensitive skin, this method may not be for you. Double-cleansing is by no means a necessity. However, if you still want a deeper cleanse, then going in twice with a regular cleanser will work just as well.

What are the best cleansers for double cleansing?

Before double cleansing, you’ll want to discover which cleansers will be the right match for your skin.

There are two types of oil cleansers to choose from - pure oils and formulated cleansing oils.

Pure oils, whether mineral or plant-based, can be effective at removing makeup. However, they can be tough to rinse off the skin. Formulated cleansing oils instead contain ingredients like emulsifiers that help turn the oil into a milky substance when mixed with water so it can be easily rinsed off without leaving any greasy residue.

Formulated oil cleansers can also be bought in both liquid and balm form.

When it comes to your water-based or regular cleanser, you may already have a favourite. If you don’t, we recommend that oily skin types opt for foaming cleansers while dry and sensitive skin may want to edge towards hydrating cleansers and cleansing milks.

How to add double cleansing into your skincare routine

When double-cleansing, it’s best to use this method only at night. Double-cleansing both morning and night could lead to over washing, resulting in damage to the skin’s moisture barrier, dryness and sensitisation.

To double cleanse, first go in with an oil cleanser or a cleansing balm. These types of cleaners are best used on dry skin. Massage the product around the face for 30-45 seconds to melt away all your skin’s build-up. Then, rinse off the oil cleanser with water.

If your oil cleanser is fragrance-free, then it is also safe to use when removing eye makeup. However, fragranced and essential oils may be highly irritating to the eyes, so look out if your cleanser contains any of these ingredients.

Afterwards, go in with a foaming or hydrating cleanser on a damp face. Massage the cleanser into your face in circular motions, this time for 30 seconds to one minute. Then wash the cleaner away with water and gently pat your face dry.

Voila! Now your face is extra clean, and you’re ready for the rest of your skincare routine.