- A double cleanse routine removes makeup, sunscreen, and other oil-based grime that water-based cleansers can’t fully eliminate.
- This method effectively unclogs pores, improving skin tone and texture over time. It also helps skincare absorb better.
- When done with the right products, the double cleansing method supports your barrier rather than stripping it of essential lipids and ceramides.
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 new 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 “Yes”. Let’s break down what it is, why it matters, and how to do it right.
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 rose in popularity worldwide quite recently. This has become the holy grail of all cleansing techniques for skincare enthusiasts who understand the importance of starting their everyday skincare routine with a clean base.
The method involves two steps, consisting of an oil-based cleanser and a water-based cleanser. The first cleanser melts away makeup, sunscreen, and sebum, whereas the second one washes away sweat, dirt, and any other leftover 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 seconds can transform 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.
Controls Excess Sebum & Breakouts
Since the double cleansing method removes both oil and water-based impurities, it’s quite effective at dissolving excess sebum and promoting a healthier skin environment. And when your pores are free of buildup that feeds bacteria, you naturally won’t break out as much.
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 and deeply through the epidermis.
Promotes Even Skin Tone & Texture
Being consistent with this cleansing method will eventually help you achieve a glowing skin free from blemishes, hyperpigmentation, and uneven texture.
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 a cleansing balm or a couple of pumps of a high-quality cleansing oil and massage it all over your face for a few minutes until all the makeup has dissolved. Then, just splash your face with some water to emulsify the product and rinse thoroughly.
Step 2: Follow Up With a Water-Based Cleanser
This step is what you usually do. Squeeze out a small amount of face wash and lather it onto damp skin for approximately 30 seconds before washing off. We recommend using 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 calm and hydrate your skin.
FAQs About Double Cleansing
We’ve already gone through the process and benefits of double cleansing and answered whether double cleansing is necessary or not. But you might still have a few lingering questions. Let’s clear those up!
Does the double cleansing method dry out 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 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 lift deeper impurities.
How often should you be double cleansing?
Once a day is enough. Include it as part of your nighttime skincare routine to gently dissolve all the makeup, sunscreen, and dust that accumulates 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.
Final Verdict On the Double Cleansing Method
Undoubtedly, double cleansing is a necessary step to ensure your skin isn’t weighed down by the accumulation of beauty products and all the grime that a regular water-based face wash can’t reach. The addition of just one more step to your regimen sets your skin up for success. You’ll feel cleaner, your skincare will work better, and results will be evident in no time. 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®!
