The Key Takeaways:
- A double cleanse routine helps remove makeup, sunscreen, excess oil, and other oil-based buildup that water-based cleansers may leave behind.
- This method can help skin feel cleaner and look more balanced while creating a better base for the rest of your skincare routine.
- When done with the right products, the double cleansing method can support a comfortable-feeling skin barrier rather than leaving skin stripped.
Do you ever come home after a long day, wash your face, and feel like it’s still not clean enough? Are your pillowcases and toner pads always picking up grime and leftover makeup, even after you’ve washed your face thoroughly? If so, you probably haven’t tried double cleansing yet.
You might’ve heard of this buzz-worthy trend all over “skintok” and other social media platforms and brushed it off, wholly convinced that it’s just another fad that’ll die out soon because it doesn’t actually work. But since you’re here, you’re likely a bit curious and wondering, “Is double cleansing necessary?” The short answer is that it can be helpful, especially if you wear makeup, sunscreen, or heavier skincare products during the day. Let’s break down what it is, why it matters, and how to do it right.
Updated for 2026: Double cleansing remains one of the simplest ways to make your nighttime skincare routine feel more spa-like, thorough, and intentional without adding a complicated step.
What Is Double Cleansing?
It’s a two-step cleansing method that originated in Japan and South Korea (the lands of dewy, glass-like skin and 10-step skincare routines) and has recently risen in popularity worldwide. This has become a favorite cleansing technique for skincare enthusiasts who understand the importance of starting their everyday skincare routine with a clean base.
The method involves two steps: an oil-based cleanser and a water-based cleanser. The first cleanser melts away makeup, sunscreen, and sebum, whereas the second cleanses away sweat, dirt, and any remaining products.
The Benefits of Double Cleansing
If the idea of washing your face twice still doesn’t feel like an essential step, learning about the pros of double cleansing might just change your mind for good. Here’s how an extra few extra seconds of effort can elevate your whole skincare regimen.
Cleanses the Pores Thoroughly
This two-step cleansing method provides a deeper cleanse than the traditional one-step method by targeting different types of impurities simultaneously. If you know a bit about basic chemistry, you know that oil and water don’t mix, so a regular water-based cleanser doesn’t really get rid of everything on your skin. That’s why double cleansing with an oil-based cleanser can help better tackle stubborn oil-based products, such as sunscreen and foundation.
Helps Manage Excess Sebum & Visible Buildup
Since the double cleansing method removes both oil and water-based impurities, it’s quite effective at dissolving excess sebum and supporting a fresher-feeling skin environment. And when your pores feel free of buildup, your skin can look clearer, smoother, and more balanced.
Improves Skincare Absorption
Double cleansing ensures your skin is as clean as possible, which in turn helps skincare products like toners, exfoliants, serums, and face creams absorb more effectively into the skin’s surface layers.
Promotes Even Skin Tone & Texture
Being consistent with this cleansing method may help your complexion look smoother, brighter, and more refreshed over time. It’s a simple way to support your goal to achieve a glowing skin look with a routine that starts at the sink.
Step-By-Step Double Cleansing Method
You already know the gist of double cleansing. Here’s how to actually do it!
Step 1: Use an Oil-Based Cleanser
Scoop out a coin-sized amount of cleansing balm or a couple of pumps of high-quality cleansing oil, then massage it all over your face for a few minutes until all the makeup has dissolved. Then just splash your face with water to emulsify the product, and rinse thoroughly. Use gentle circular motions and avoid tugging, especially around the delicate eye area.
Step 2: Follow Up With a Water-Based Cleanser
This is the step you usually take. Squeeze out a small amount of face wash and lather it onto damp skin for approximately 30 seconds, then rinse off. We recommend the Lea Black Beauty® Skin Revitalizing Daily Face Wash, a gentle, non-comedogenic formula suitable for all skin types. It’s enriched with aloe vera and retinol for additional benefits. Follow it up with our Lea Black Beauty® Brighten & Balance 200mg CBD Skin Toner to help skin feel calm, hydrated, and ready for the next steps in your routine.
FAQs About Double Cleansing
We’ve already gone through the process and benefits of double cleansing and addressed whether it's necessary. But you might still have a few lingering questions. Let’s clear those up!
Does the double-cleansing method dry out the skin?
Not if you’re using the right products! Oil-based cleansers gently remove excess sebum and buildup without stripping away the lipids and ceramides that keep your skin feeling hydrated.
Can you use makeup remover or face wipes instead of an oil-based cleanser?
You can, but it may not be as effective. Makeup removers and wipes are typically designed for surface-level clean-up, whereas cleansing oils can help lift away more stubborn oil-based residue.
How often should you double-cleanse?
Once a day is enough. Include it in your nighttime skincare routine to gently dissolve makeup, sunscreen, and dust that accumulate throughout the day. This will also prepare your skin to absorb the rest of the products more effectively.
Can you use any type of oil cleanser?
Any skincare product should be chosen based on your skin type. If you have dry skin, look for a cleansing oil or balm with hydrating ingredients. For oily and combination skin, lightweight, non-comedogenic formulas are best.
Should you double cleanse in the morning or at night?
Most people only need to double cleanse at night, when they are removing makeup, sunscreen, excess oil, and the day’s buildup. In the morning, a gentle water-based cleanse or rinse may be enough, depending on your skin type and routine.
Final Verdict On the Double Cleansing Method
Undoubtedly, double cleansing is a worthwhile step if your skin often feels weighed down by the accumulation of beauty products and grime that a regular water-based face wash can’t reach. Adding just one more step to your regimen sets your skin up for success. You’ll feel cleaner, your skincare can layer more beautifully, and your complexion may look fresher and more polished with consistency. This is one small change that’s truly worth it.
Maximize the benefits of double cleansing by following it up with high-quality, CBD-infused skincare solutions from Lea Black Beauty®!
