Have you thought about how much your face endures throughout the day? From applying sunscreen and makeup to sweating and being exposed to the outdoors, your skin collects a lot of products and particles. Even after washing your face, you may still feel like your clogs are pored.
If that feeling sounds familiar, double cleansing may be your solution. Learn more about the dermatologist-recommended method that gets in deep and leaves your skin feeling new again.
What is double cleansing?
Double cleansing simply means washing your face twice. Not twice a day, but twice in a row. You start with one product formulated to remove product build up, and then wash again with a cleanser of your choice.
The concept is similar to double shampooing. In both cases, the first wash removes dirt from the surface, and the second wash cleans and nourishes.
Does this strategy really work? Here’s what dermatologists have to say.
The science of double cleansing
Dermatologists recommend double cleansing because it thoroughly cleanses, retains moisture and enhances product absorption.
Clears the face
Washing your face every day is the foundation of your skincare routine, and double cleansing can make it twice as effective.
David Johnson, board-certified dermatologist and co-founder of RedliteX.com, says that dirt, oil and sunscreen tend to build up on the skin. These layers cause blocked pores and skin problems, such as acne and dullness.
“Double cleansing eliminates this by removing makeup and oil in the primary cleanse and sweat and dirt in the secondary cleanse,” Johnson says.
Maintains hydration
Double cleansing can also help with retaining skin moisture. Melanie Abeyta, aesthetic nurse practitioner and owner of Harmony Aesthetics Center, says when done properly, double cleansing deep cleans your skin while maintaining hydration.
“Double cleansing provides a deep cleaning without stripping the skin of its delicate microbiome of oil and dead skin,” Abeyta says. “It keeps the skin more hydrated, and hydrated skin ages better than dry or dehydrated skin.”
Improves the effectiveness of other skin care
According to Seaside Skin Care Medical Esthetician Stephanie Cucchiara, double cleansing is “an underrated game-changer in skin care,” especially for people who wear sunscreen and makeup or live in an area with high pollution.
“The first cleanse, typically with an oil-based or balm cleanser, breaks down makeup, sunscreen and excess sebum. The second cleanse, usually with a gentle water-based or treatment cleanser, actually cleans your skin,” Cucchiara notes. “The result? A truly clean canvas that allows your serums and moisturizers to absorb better and work more effectively.”
When you apply your other products, getting rid of build up will ensure they can fully soak into your skin.
Finding the right cleansers
Double cleansing is a two-pronged approach: start with an oil cleanser followed by a gentle cleanser based on your skin type.
For the facial wash, Cucchiara recommends choosing hydrating products for dry or sensitive skin, or products with salicylic acid for acne-prone skin. She also advises avoiding harsh cleansers that can disrupt your skin barrier.
Here are some recommendations for oil cleansers and face washers for different skin types:
1. Weleda Makeup Removing Cleansing Oil
The Weleda Makeup Removing Cleansing Oil is a fragrance-free skincare product that can melt long-wear and waterproof makeup. It emulsifies into a milk-like solution that can remove any greasy traces of product or dirt. Plus, it’s infused with vitamin-rich apricot seeds and other plants to leave the skin hydrated.
2. Pranarom Organic Pure Facial Cleansing Oil
The Pranarom Organic Pure Facial Cleansing Oil is a USDA-certified organic cleanser that gently removes stubborn makeup while preserving your natural moisture barrier. It blends virgin apricot kernel oil with other essential oils to nourish and purify the skin while dissolving makeup and other impurities.
3. Andalou Naturals Nourishing Cleansing Balm
The Andalou Naturals Nourishing Cleansing Balm is a multitasking balm that blends bio-designed collagen and hyaluronic acid to create a rich yet gentle cleanser. Its water-free formula removes impurities by integrating sunflower, coconut and jasmine oils.
4. CeraVe Acne Foaming Cream Cleanser
The CeraVe Acne Foaming Cream Cleanser is a popular skin care product that’s known for clearing acne pimples and blackheads. It also utilizes ceramides, hyaluronic acid and niacinamide to moisturize and brighten the skin. Use this fragrance-free and noncomedogenic formulation as a second cleanser in your double-cleansing journey.
5. Reviva Labs Glycolic Acid Facial Cleanser
Reviva Labs Glycolic Acid Facial Cleanser is a must-use wash for those who prioritize a brightening effect. Glycolic acid provides gentle exfoliation that helps remove residual makeup and dirt, leaving a healthy glow. This product is compatible with aging, oily, blemished and sun-damaged skin.
6. Pacifica Sea Foam Complete Face Wash
The Pacifica Sea Foam Complete Face Wash is a fantastic vegan and cruelty-free formula that also skips parabens and other harmful ingredients. Expect powerhouse antioxidants and a coconut water sea algae complex in this natural and effective cleanser, which delivers a nondrying effect for all ages and skin types.
How to double cleanse
The effectiveness of double cleansing relies on proper application. Here are a few guidelines to help you maximize the benefits of this skincare technique.
Use the products in the right order
Abeyta recommends massaging an oil cleanser onto the face first to loosen eye makeup, foundation and other cosmetics. For the best results, apply while the skin is still dry.
Shortly after, while the skin is wet, apply a foaming cleanser. Make sure to move in circular motions and thoroughly clean all the nooks and crannies to clear the skin of any impurities.
Remember to be gentle when applying and removing cleansers. When drying your face, pat gently with a towel rather than rubbing it directly on your skin.
Pick the right time of day
Double cleansing in the evening is ideal for maximum effectiveness, according to Cucchiara.
“For most people, once a day in the evening is plenty,” Cucchiara says. “There’s usually no need to double cleanse in the morning.”
Don’t overdo it
Keep in mind that cleansing too much can strip the skin of its natural oils and cause it to become dry.
“Double-cleansing can dehydrate your skin if done in excess,” Johnson says. “If it dries out, becomes itchy or even flakes, you’re washing it too frequently. So, reduce it to once in 24 hours or opt for something gentler on it.”
For your second cleanser, avoid anything too harsh and look for fragrance-free products if you have sensitive skin.
Double cleanse for clean skin
Double cleansing is a dermatologist-approved method that you can incorporate into your skincare routine. Just remember to be gentle when applying the products.