Double Cleansing: Purpose and Benefits in Skin Care
Double cleansing is essential for thoroughly removing makeup, sunscreen, excess oil, and environmental pollutants that can accumulate on the skin throughout the day, which a single cleanse often cannot fully remove.
What is Double Cleansing?
Double cleansing involves using two different types of cleansers in succession:
- First Cleanse: Uses an oil-based cleanser or cleansing balm
- Second Cleanse: Uses a water-based cleanser or foaming cleanser
Benefits of Double Cleansing
Removal of Different Types of Impurities
First cleanse: Effectively dissolves oil-based impurities including:
- Makeup (especially waterproof formulations)
- Sunscreen
- Excess sebum
- Environmental pollutants
Second cleanse: Removes water-based impurities including:
- Sweat
- Dirt
- Remaining residue from the first cleanse
Skin Health Benefits
- Prevents clogged pores: Thorough removal of impurities helps prevent acne and breakouts 1
- Improves product absorption: Clean skin allows subsequent skincare products to penetrate more effectively
- Maintains skin barrier: Proper cleansing without over-stripping the skin helps maintain the skin's protective barrier 2
How to Double Cleanse
Step 1: Oil-Based Cleanser
- Apply to dry skin
- Gently massage in circular motions for 30-60 seconds
- Focus on areas with makeup or sunscreen
- Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water or remove with a soft cloth
Step 2: Water-Based Cleanser
- Apply to damp skin
- Lather and massage gently for 30-60 seconds
- Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water
- Pat (don't rub) skin dry with a clean towel
Evidence-Based Benefits
Research shows that proper cleansing routines can significantly improve skin condition:
- A clinical study demonstrated that a consistent cleansing routine led to objective improvements in skin condition, including reduced dryness and improved skin texture 2
- Another study showed that proper cleansing combined with moisturizing significantly improved acne in subjects with sensitive skin while increasing endogenous ceramide levels in the stratum corneum 1
When to Double Cleanse
- Most beneficial: In the evening to remove daytime accumulation of makeup, sunscreen, and environmental pollutants
- Not always necessary: In the morning when skin only needs light cleansing
Considerations for Different Skin Types
- Dry/Sensitive Skin: Use gentler formulations; consider cleansing oils or balms that don't strip natural oils 3
- Oily/Acne-Prone Skin: Both cleansers should be non-comedogenic; second cleanser may contain ingredients like salicylic acid 4
- Combination Skin: Focus oil-based cleanser on oilier areas; use gentle water-based cleanser all over
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
- Over-cleansing: Double cleansing more than once daily can strip the skin of natural oils
- Using harsh products: Avoid cleansers with high alcohol content or strong fragrances
- Hot water: Use lukewarm water to avoid disrupting the skin barrier
- Aggressive rubbing: Always cleanse with gentle motions to prevent irritation
- Skipping moisturizer: Always follow cleansing with appropriate moisturizer to maintain skin barrier function
Double cleansing, when done correctly with appropriate products for your skin type, provides a thorough cleanse without compromising the skin's natural barrier, leading to healthier skin and improved efficacy of subsequent skincare products.