Few steps are as important as your morning and evening cleanse; it’s one of the fundamental things we learn when venturing into the world of skincare and stacking up a routine. Up there with applying SPF daily, the importance of facial washing is well-known, as it keeps the complexion clean and clarified to protect from a build-up of impurities and breakouts.
And whilst cleansing in any capacity is good, 'double cleansing' is where the real deep-cleaning magic can happen.
Not just another buzzword-based method or trending technique, double cleansing has been rooted in Japanese and Korean routines for years, but only recently made its way to Western cultures thanks to the rise in Asian-inspired practices. Though it sounds self-explanatory, this two-part ritual entails more than you might think.
What is the Double Cleansing Method?
Double cleansing is a skincare technique that involves washing your face twice – but with two different types of cleansers.
The first cleanser should always be oil-based, followed up by a water-based one. The idea is that the first formula (a balm or an oil) melts away daily makeup, impurities and SPF, surface level grime that we can see or feel. Massaged on immediately after, a second cleanse (usually a foaming gel or cream) takes care of any residual debris, congestion and pollution particles that we can’t always see or feel.
The Benefits of Double Cleansing
Ultimately, your face will look and feel much cleaner if you partake in double cleansing, and the act of washing twice with two different types of products ensures that all dirt is removed.
This allows your subsequent skincare formulas to work much more effectively if there is nothing blocking their absorption, alongside removing any potential breakout-causing bacteria from your skin barrier.
Unlike just cleansing once, this more thorough ritual can help to visibly brighten, balance and decongest the skin, promoting a healthier complexion overall.
Here’s a more detailed explanation of the benefits of each step:
1. Oil-Based First Cleanse
A cleansing balm or oil is used primarily to dissolve makeup, dislodge impurities from pores and slough stubborn formulas like water-resistant sunscreen. Generally tolerated by most skin types, this step won’t strip away moisture but instead support your skin’s hydration levels to leave a soft and supple-feeling finish. Plus, if your skin is in need of extra nourishment – you can keep your balm on as a ten-minute mask.
2. Water-Based Second Cleanse
Your second cleanse helps to sweep away water-soluble impurities like sweat and pollution particles, providing a purified, deeply refreshed effect. Much lighter than the first step, water-based cleansers can be enriched with actives that target common concerns, supporting your skin type-specific routine from the offset.
How to Double Cleanse
The good news is you only really need to double cleanse at night, as this is likely when you want to remove your makeup and SPF. In the morning, using your water-based cleanser is enough to refresh and wash away any previously applied skincare from the night before.
To get started, take a small amount of your balm or oil between your fingers to warm it up. Massage it gently across the face in circular motions for a few moments, then wet the skin to emulsify the formula into a softening milk. Either rinse off with warm water or wipe away with a damp muslin cloth.
For your second cleanse, add 1-2 pumps of face wash into the hands and apply to damp skin, again massaging gently in circular motions. Rinse thoroughly and pat dry – et voila – your double cleansing ritual is complete.
Cleansing According to Your Skin Type
When curating your double cleanse routine, it’s important to consider what you want to achieve within your skincare routine. Below are some examples of ingredients to look out for that may be beneficial to your skin type and support your goals.
If You Have Dry/Sensitive Skin
Luckily, most cleansing balms already star a selection of nourishing ingredients to replenish moisture and keep dryness at bay, like our cica-infused balm.
When selecting a second cleanse, opt for formulas rich in actives like ceramides and hyaluronic acid to boost water retention and soothe the skin barrier.
If You Have Oily/Combination Skin
A common misconception is that oil-based balms may contribute to the skin’s shine and sebum levels, making it appear oilier. However, this is often not the case. Cleansing balms and oils can help to balance the skin, removing excess oils without over-stripping and drying out sebaceous glands.
For your subsequent gel or cream cleanse, choosing formulas enriched with AHA/BHAs like glycolic and salicylic acids can help by mildly exfoliating the skin for a fresher feel.
If You Have Acne-Prone Skin
Due to their gentle, non-abrasive properties, cleansing balms are ideal for those with blemish-prone skin types. Meanwhile, look out for a non-comedogenic water-based cleanser, and stick to actives like salicylic acid to help reduce the risk of breakouts and minimise the look of post-blemish marks.
Ready to get started? Explore our full collection of cleansers to browse a variety of sensorial balms, oils, milks, gels and foams compatible for all skincare concerns.
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