Just as you may have guessed, double cleansing is the process of cleansing your skin twice. Rather than going in with your same cleanser twofold, double cleansing requires two different cleansers – an oil-based or balm cleanser and a regular, water-soluble cleanser to finish off.
Begin by using an oil-based cleanser or balm to melt away any makeup or debris that has settled on your skin throughout the day. Oil is brilliant for breaking down that hard to eliminate makeup, so beginning with this step will mean you’re able to get rid of the majority of residue on your face before proceeding to use your usual cleanser, to target deeper cleansing.
The benefits of double cleansing
First and foremost, double cleansing your skin is a practice you should be introducing in your skincare routine in the evening to fully remove your makeup and clear out your pores, this skincare step can help diminish the possibility of breakouts.
Double cleansing doesn’t need to be performed every day, especially for those who often go bare faced. However, if you’re someone who wears a full face of makeup daily and find that your skin has a tendency to breaking out, double cleansing at night could be the key to clearing your skin.
Alternatively, if you don’t need to rid your skin of hard-to-remove makeup residue but are longing for super squeaky-clean skin, then double cleansing once a week could release all your pores from environmental debris.
How to double cleanse your skin
- Wet your skin before dispensing a dollop of your chosen oil-based or balm cleanser. Use your fingers to massage the cleanser into your skin in circular motions to break down any makeup. You want to be using a fragrance-free cleanser to allow you to gently rub around the eyes to break down any lingering mascara.
- Use a wet damp cloth to wipe away the residue. If needed, you can go in with the first step a second time to fully eliminate any stubborn makeup.
- Next, move on to your usual water-soluble cleanser. Just like the first step, you want to dispense a blob of cleanser onto your palm and gently massage it in circular motions to damp skin.
- Finally, rinse the cleanser off with lukewarm water and pat dry with a towel. Now your skin is freshly cleansed it’s time to proceed with the rest of your skincare routine!
Best oil-based/balm cleansers
The INKEY List Oat Cleansing Balm
Using a balm cleanser over an oil-based cleanser is potentially a better route to follow for those who have oily skin. Oil-based formulas just add more oil and moisture to the skin which isn’t always ideal for those with an oily complexion. This Oat Cleansing Balm from The Inkey List is just as good at dissolving makeup while still leaving you with a nourished complexion.
CeraVe Hydrating Foaming Oil Cleanser
This daily cleanser has an oil-based formula that breaks down makeup easily, leaving your skin feeling refreshed. Formulated with three Essential Ceramides, Glycerin and Hyaluronic Acid to keep your skin feeling ultra-hydrated, this is the perfect oil-based cleanser to start your double cleansing routine with.
La Roche-Posay Lipikar AP+ Cleansing Oil
The La Roche-Posay Lipikar AP+ Cleansing Oil formula easily removes stubborn makeup and dirt to make way for a fully cleansed, dirt-free complexion. This oil cleanser is best suited to those who have dry or uncomfortable skin. This formula includes essential lipids to restore the skins barrier.
Best water-based cleansers
La Roche Posay Effaclar Purifying Cleansing Gel
If you have oily, blemish prone skin then the La Roche-Posay Effaclar Purifying Cleansing Gel could be a great fit for you. This purifying cleanser removes dirt and sebum from the skin, leaving it feeling clean and refreshed, reducing the appearance of blemishes over time.
Garnier Micellar Water Facial Cleanser Sensitive Skin
The Garnier Micellar Water is an absolute classic when it comes to cleanser. I’ve been using this for years on the lazy days when I want to cleanse my face and get rid of makeup all in one go. It leaves your skin feeling fresh and residue free. It’s ideal for those with sensitive skin as it doesn’t contain any harsh ingredients.
CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser for Normal to Dry Skin
This cleanser has been developed by dermatologists who have create a gentle formula that cleanses away excess makeup and dirt. If you have dry to normal skin then this non-foaming cleanser is best suited to you. It contains 3 essential ceramides to help protect the skin’s epidermis and Hyaluronic Acid to keep the skin feeling moisturised.
