What is Double Cleansing?
In the world of skincare, it can feel a bit like falling down a rabbit hole. We are truly spoiled for choice, which can often lead to complete confusion, especially when there are not only hundreds of different products, but countless ways to use them! Double cleansing is a prime example of this. For those who don’t know what the double cleansing method is, it’s a very popular cleansing routine that originated in Korea. The method involves two steps: first, you use an oil-based cleanser (or micellar cleansing water, if you prefer) to remove all makeup and sunscreen from your skin, and then you use a water-based cleanser to more thoroughly remove all the germs and aggressors from the day. With that in mind, let’s now explore what it is, how to do it, why you should do it, and more!
How to Double Cleanse
While a quick wipe with makeup wipes can be time-consuming, it’s not enough to properly remove makeup as well as the dirt and daily aggressors that your skin has to deal with every day. Double cleansing means just that: cleansing your skin twice.
With so many products claiming to remove makeup and cleanse your skin in one go, you can’t be blamed for thinking that this is the best way to cleanse your skin at the end of the day.
In fact, the best way to remove makeup is with an oil-based makeup remover. The oil will easily dissolve foundation or mascara without you having to use rough motions that can cause eye irritation and skin redness from excessive rubbing.
After using the double cleansing method to make your skin makeup-free, the next step is to use a water-based cleanser to remove the day’s makeup residue and general grime. Splash your face with water and allow the cleanser to really penetrate every nook and cranny of your face. Taking a little extra time to let the product work will do wonders for your skin and will definitely leave you feeling squeaky clean!
Double cleansing can also be done twice a day, in the morning and at night. However, concentrating this skincare routine at night has been shown to have a significant impact on the health and glow of your skin. Continuing to double cleanse with a facial oil and nighttime moisturizer will restore the antioxidants needed to rejuvenate your skin as well as beneficial vitamins and minerals while enjoying your beauty sleep.
What are the benefits of double cleansing?
Incorporating double cleansing into your skincare routine is extremely beneficial for everyone, especially city dwellers who are exposed to more pollution. The oil cleansing method is the gentlest, most thorough way to remove all traces of makeup without drying out the skin or stripping it of much-needed sebum (the natural oil produced by the skin).
The second, more thorough cleanse removes all dead skin cells from the surface of the face. If the second cleanse is thorough, the result will be a more radiant complexion that appears firmer and free of signs of dullness.
For those who are more prone to breakouts, double cleansing may be the answer to your skincare routine. When you perform a two-step cleanse in the evening, you can rest assured that any remaining sunscreen, makeup, and bacteria will be removed from the skin without over-irritating active areas, which can not only be painful but also spread bacteria across the face, leading to further breakouts.
Does the double cleansing method cleanse your skin more often?
In a word: yes. Your skin needs to be cleansed twice a day, once in the morning and once in the evening. However, this does not mean that you have to use the double cleansing method twice. It is best to perform a more extensive routine in the evening to ensure that your skin is as clean as possible before bed. In the morning, some people use a light product like micellar water or whatever works best for your skin type and lifestyle, focusing on the eyes and areas prone to oiliness or dryness.
We can’t deny that double cleansing is good for your skin, but you can have too much of a good thing. It’s best to avoid using this method morning and night, as it can dry out the skin, leading to an uncomfortable feeling, and removing sebum from the skin can actually lead to more sebum production, resulting in greasy, shiny facial skin.
If you find that your skin needs some extra help and exfoliation, you can skip double cleansing at night and instead remove your makeup and then use a facial scrub. Procoal’s Exfoliating Facial Scrub is a great way to remove dead skin cells and dirt from your pores without over-stripping your skin.
Do’s and Don’ts for Double Cleansing
Here are some do’s and don’ts to help you maintain an effective skincare routine while double cleansing.
Do-
Cleanse for more than a minute
Similar to brushing your teeth, it takes more than a minute for the product to penetrate your skin. Dirt and bacteria are removed, leaving skin feeling refreshed, clean, and makeup-free. It may feel like a long time, but you’ll get the hang of it soon and I promise you’ll love the results!
Use a cleanser in the morning
As mentioned before, cleansing twice a day can actually lead to skin problems, such as oily patches or tight and uncomfortable skin. We recommend that you find a face cleanser that you can use in the morning to wake up your face and start the day with clean skin.
Use the right formula for your skin type
We recommend using an oil-based cleanser as the first step in removing makeup. However, you know your skin type best. For example, for dry skin, a cream-based product might be a better choice for you and your skin.
Don’t
Use a cleanser that’s not right for your skin type
It’s easy to want to use a product until it runs out. This can cause a lot of trouble for your skin because it can dry it out or cause blemishes. If you find that your skin can’t tolerate your cleanser, it’s best to pass it on to someone else. Don’t assume that your skin is reacting badly to the cleanser if some spots appear after a week of use.This is usually a sign that the product and method are working to remove all the dirt that has found its way into the pores and can cause breakouts. However, if blemishes haven’t disappeared after a week of use, it’s best to stop using the cleanser.
Makeup wipes only
Don’t get us wrong, makeup wipes are great for removing makeup once in a while or on holidays. However, when using wipes, you’ll find that they only remove makeup and dirt slightly. Makeup wipes can’t clean thoroughly and remove all traces of makeup. You’ll also find that since they’re made of wood, they’re very rough on the skin, so this isn’t the gentlest cleansing method.
That’s all for more information on what double cleansing is, how to use this method effectively, and some tips on what you should and shouldn’t do. This method is probably the gentlest way to thoroughly cleanse your skin. Regardless, depending on your lifestyle, etc., this method may not be right for you. So give it a try and test out some products that really work for your skin.
