The Benefits of Double Cleansing: Why and How to Do It

Struggling to wash away stubborn makeup and impurities can feel like a never-ending battle. Even after a full routine with cleanser and water, some traces remain, lingering to clog pores and cause breakouts. Many people face the persistent problem of not feeling fully refreshed, despite their skincare efforts. It’s no wonder double cleansing has become a buzzword in skincare routines everywhere – it promises a solution that makes sense for people tired of half-measures and compromised skin health.

Yet, the concept of double cleansing may raise concerns about over-cleansing, which can lead to dry, irritated, and stripped skin. That’s a valid worry! But double cleansing, when done correctly, doesn’t have to be harsh. Instead, it can work with your skin to gently, and thoroughly remove all traces of dirt and oil, leaving you with a balanced and truly clean complexion.

With double cleansing, the promise is real: a fresh start each night with skin that feels deeply clean, comfortably soft, and ready to absorb all the nourishing ingredients that follow. It’s about finding that sweet spot between effective cleansing and gentle care, allowing you to take your skincare routine up a notch without the risk of over-cleansing.

Understanding Double Cleansing

Double cleansing is a two-step skincare method designed to remove makeup, sunscreen, and impurities more thoroughly than a single cleanse can achieve. This practice originated in Asian skincare routines, particularly in Japan and Korea, where achieving clear, radiant skin has long been a priority. Double cleansing has become increasingly popular worldwide as more people recognize the need for a cleansing routine that truly refreshes and resets the skin.

The Two-Step Process Explained

The double-cleansing process involves two types of cleansers, each with a specific function:

Step 1: Oil-Based Cleanser – The first cleanse is with an oil-based product that effectively dissolves makeup, sunscreen, and sebum. Since like attracts like, oil cleansers are uniquely suited to lift away oil-based impurities without stripping the skin.

Step 2: Water-Based Cleanser – The second cleanse is with a water-based cleanser that targets any remaining sweat, dirt, and debris, ensuring the skin is truly clean and prepped to absorb your skincare products.

By working together, these two steps provide a deeper and more balanced clean, removing both oil- and water-based impurities without over-cleansing.

Why Single Cleansing Often Falls Short

A single cleanse may remove surface-level dirt, but many traditional cleansers struggle with stubborn makeup, sunscreen, and environmental pollutants that tend to cling to the skin. These impurities can linger even after washing, clogging pores and leading to breakouts or dullness. Traditional cleansers alone may also lack the versatility to address different types of buildup, often leaving behind traces of makeup or sunscreen that can disrupt the skin’s natural balance.

In a world where makeup and sunscreen are more resilient than ever, and environmental pollutants are a daily challenge, double cleansing offers the thorough refresh your skin truly needs. It’s an approach that prioritizes both cleanliness and care, creating a foundation for clearer, healthier-looking skin.

The Double Cleansing Process

Step 1: Oil-Based Cleanser

Oil-based cleansers are the star of the first step in the double-cleansing process. They work on the principle of “like dissolves like,” meaning that oil attracts and dissolves other oils, such as sebum, makeup, and sunscreen. This allows the cleanser to gently lift away impurities without disrupting the skin’s natural barrier.

How Oil Cleansers Work: When you massage an oil cleanser onto dry skin, it binds with the oil-based impurities on the skin’s surface. This includes everything from waterproof makeup and sunscreen to sebum trapped within pores. The result? A thorough cleanse without the need for harsh scrubbing.

Types of Oil Cleansers: There are different forms of oil-based cleansers to suit various preferences and needs:

Pure Oils like jojoba, olive, and coconut oil are simple and effective options for removing makeup and nourishing the skin.
Balms are thicker, solid oils that melt upon application, delivering a comforting feel while breaking down makeup.
Micellar Waters contain tiny oil molecules suspended in water, making them a great option for those who prefer a lighter texture.

Benefits of Oil Cleansing:

Effective Makeup and Sunscreen Removal: Oil cleansers excel at dissolving stubborn makeup and sunscreen, ensuring a clean canvas at the end of the day.
Dissolving Sebum and Unclogging Pores: By gently removing excess oil, oil cleansing helps clear out pores without stripping the skin, reducing the risk of breakouts.

Step 2: Water-Based Cleanser

The second step uses a water-based cleanser to ensure any remaining impurities are completely removed. This step cleans away sweat, dirt, and residual oil cleanser, leaving your skin feeling fresh and balanced.

Choosing the Right Second Cleanser: Selecting a water-based cleanser that matches your skin type is essential for achieving the right balance without over-drying.

For dry or sensitive skin, consider a gentle, hydrating cleanser with soothing ingredients.

For oily or acne-prone skin, a gel-based cleanser with ingredients like salicylic acid can help keep pores clear.

Key Ingredients to Look for:

Hyaluronic Acid for hydration.
Ceramides to support the skin barrier.
Salicylic Acid for pore-cleansing benefits in oily or acne-prone skin types.

Benefits of the Second Cleanse:

Removing Remaining Impurities: This step clears away any lingering traces of dirt or oil from the first cleanse, ensuring the skin is completely clean.
Balancing Skin pH: Water-based cleansers help maintain the skin’s natural pH, leaving it prepped to absorb serums, moisturizers, or other treatments you apply afterward.

When performed correctly, double cleansing not only removes impurities effectively but also leaves skin balanced, refreshed, and ready for the next steps in your skincare routine.

The Double Cleansing Solution: Customizing Your Routine

Double cleansing is versatile enough to benefit any skin type, but customizing it to your unique needs can make all the difference in achieving the best results.

Oily and Acne-Prone Skin: For those with oily or acne-prone skin, double cleansing can be transformative. Oil-based cleansers gently dissolve excess sebum without clogging pores, while the second cleanse can address any remaining impurities. Look for oil cleansers with non-comedogenic oils, like grapeseed or jojoba, and follow up with a water-based cleanser that contains salicylic acid or tea tree oil to help keep pores clear.

Dry and Sensitive Skin: Double cleansing can sound intimidating for sensitive or dry skin types, but choosing the right products makes it gentle and hydrating. Opt for a lightweight, fragrance-free oil cleanser that won’t strip the skin’s natural barrier. Follow up with a mild, hydrating water-based cleanser containing soothing ingredients like aloe vera or ceramides. This method effectively removes makeup and impurities without triggering irritation.

When to Double Cleanse

Adapting double cleansing to your lifestyle and skin’s needs is key for consistency and effectiveness.

Daily vs. Occasional Use: Double cleansing is most commonly used at night to remove makeup, sunscreen, and pollutants that accumulate during the day. However, for those with particularly sensitive skin, double cleansing can be done only on makeup days or after heavy sunscreen application. In the mornings, a single, gentle cleanse might be sufficient to refresh the skin.

Adapting to Lifestyle and Environment: If you live in a polluted city or frequently wear long-lasting makeup and sunscreen, double cleansing every night can help ensure your skin remains balanced. On the other hand, if you’re in a low-pollution area or using minimal makeup, you might only need to double cleanse a few times per week.

Proper Techniques for Maximum Benefit

Double cleansing isn’t just about the products; using the right techniques can enhance its effectiveness.

Massage Methods for Oil Cleansers: Start with a dry face and hands. Apply a few drops of oil cleanser and gently massage it in circular motions, focusing on areas prone to congestion, like the T-zone. This helps stimulate circulation and allows the oil to break down makeup and impurities more thoroughly. Rinse with lukewarm water or wipe gently with a warm, damp cloth to remove the oil.

Gentle Application of Water-Based Cleansers: For the second cleanse, apply a small amount of water-based cleanser onto damp skin. Massage gently, avoiding rough scrubbing, and rinse with lukewarm water. This approach cleanses the skin while protecting its natural barrier, leaving it balanced and ready for your next skincare steps.

Customizing double cleansing to suit your skin’s unique needs ensures you’re maximizing its benefits. By choosing the right products, adjusting your frequency, and using effective techniques, double cleansing becomes a flexible, results-driven solution for clear, refreshed skin.

100% PURE Double Cleansing Products

To create a truly effective double-cleansing routine, choosing products that cater to your skin’s unique needs is essential. 100% PURE offers a range of thoughtfully formulated cleansers designed to enhance each step of the process. From richly hydrating balms and gentle foams to brightening rice water and soothing oat milk, these cleansers are crafted with natural ingredients to target specific skin concerns. Whether you’re looking for a cleanser that effortlessly removes makeup, purifies pores, or calms sensitive skin, these products make it easy to customize your double-cleansing routine for a balanced, radiant complexion.

Blood Orange Cleansing Balm (First Cleanse)

What It Is: This energizing cleansing balm blends the rich oils of avocado, coconut, and olive leaf to create a smooth, moisturizing cleanser that gently lifts away makeup and impurities. The balm’s natural ingredients work with your skin to dissolve excess oil and impurities, while blood orange essential oil provides a refreshing scent and natural degreasing properties. Antibacterial elements like olive leaf and coconut oil help fight acne-causing bacteria, making it ideal for an effective first cleanse.

How to Use: Using clean, dry fingers, scoop a half-dollar-sized amount of balm and emulsify by rubbing between your hands until the balm melts. Massage gently onto dry skin, including the eye area, in circular motions. To remove, wipe with a warm, damp towel, then rinse your face with water.

Lavender Oat Milk Soothing Cleanser (Second Cleanse)

What It Is: This gentle powder cleanser combines colloidal oatmeal, lavender, and coconut milk for a soothing second cleanse that calms and softens. It’s ideal for sensitive or irritated skin, removing impurities without stripping natural moisture. Ingredients like echinacea, calendula, and chamomile provide anti-inflammatory benefits, helping to restore balance.

How to Use: Dispense a small amount of the powder into your hand, then add a little water to activate and create a gentle foam. Massage onto the skin in circular motions and rinse thoroughly.

Fermented Rice Water Cleanser (Second Cleanse)

What It Is: With fermented rice water, this cleanser brightens and softens the skin while gently exfoliating. Packed with amino acids, enzymes, and vitamins, it promotes a radiant, even complexion. Ingredients like white mulberry and licorice balance skin tone and lessen the appearance of dark spots, making it perfect for those seeking an added glow.

How to Use: Shake the bottle and squeeze a half-dollar-sized amount onto a konjac sponge, cleansing brush, or directly onto a wet face. Massage in circular motions, then rinse with warm water.

Green Tea Cloud Foam Cleanser (Second Cleanse)

What It Is: A soothing foam cleanser formulated with green tea, calendula, and aloe to calm and de-puff the skin. Ideal for sensitive skin, it sweeps away dirt and oil while reducing redness and irritation. This cleanser leaves your skin feeling soft and refreshed, without sulfates, parabens, or artificial dyes.

How to Use: Pump foam into wet hands and massage it onto the face and neck using gentle, circular motions. Rinse with warm water.

Argan Oil Creamy Cleanser (First Cleanse)

What It Is: This rich, creamy cleanser uses argan oil, rosehip, and açai to nourish while effectively removing makeup and impurities. Free of harsh detergents and sulfates, it’s particularly beneficial for dry and sensitive skin, leaving it soft and moisturized.

How to Use: Shake the bottle and dispense a half-dollar-sized amount onto a wet sponge or directly onto your face and neck. Massage gently in circular motions and rinse with warm water.

Each of these cleansers is thoughtfully designed to elevate your double-cleansing routine, offering gentle yet effective solutions for makeup removal, skin softening, and targeted nourishment. By incorporating 100% PURE products, you can tailor your double cleansing for a refreshed, balanced complexion every day.

Conclusion

Double cleansing isn’t just a skincare trend; it’s a transformative step that can help you achieve healthier, more balanced skin. By using a two-step process that starts with an oil-based cleanser and follows with a water-based one, you can effectively remove stubborn makeup, sunscreen, and impurities, while balancing and nourishing your skin. The benefits of double cleansing go beyond a deep clean — it prepares your skin to fully absorb serums and moisturizers, leaving your complexion looking fresh and radiant.

If you’re ready for clearer, softer skin, now is the perfect time to make double cleansing a part of your daily routine. With just a few minutes each day, you can give your skin the thorough yet gentle care it deserves. So, why wait? Start your double cleansing journey today and see the difference it can make for your skin!

Frequently Asked Questions

Is double cleansing necessary if I don’t wear makeup?
Yes! Even if you don’t wear makeup, your skin accumulates natural oils, sunscreen, and environmental pollutants throughout the day. Double cleansing ensures that all these impurities are removed, allowing your skin to stay balanced and absorb products better, leaving it refreshed and prepared for your skincare routine.

How often should I double cleanse?
For most people, double cleansing once daily, usually at night, is sufficient. This helps remove the day’s buildup and prepares your skin for overnight treatments. If your skin is particularly sensitive or dry, you might find that double cleansing every other day is enough to maintain a balanced, clean complexion.

Can double cleansing help with acne and breakouts?
Yes, double cleansing can help manage acne and breakouts. The first cleanse removes oils, dirt, and makeup, while the second cleanse addresses lingering impurities and helps balance the skin. By keeping pores clear of excess oil and debris, double cleansing can reduce breakouts and improve overall skin clarity.

Is it safe to use oil cleansers on oily skin?
Absolutely! Oil cleansers work on the principle of “like dissolves like,” meaning they’re effective at breaking down and lifting excess sebum and oil-based impurities without stripping your skin. For oily or acne-prone skin, look for lightweight oil cleansers with non-comedogenic ingredients, which won’t clog pores.

Can I double cleanse if I have sensitive or rosacea-prone skin?
Yes, but choosing the right products is essential. Opt for a gentle, fragrance-free oil cleanser followed by a soothing, non-foaming second cleanser. Avoid any harsh, stripping cleansers, and monitor your skin’s response. With the right products, double cleansing can be gentle enough even for sensitive or rosacea-prone skin, helping it stay clean and balanced.