All About Double Cleansing

Just like your clothing gets washed and rinsed in the washing machine, your complexion can benefit from a similar cycle. Double cleansing, however, involves more than just washing your face twice and delivering a pristinely clean complexion. So why should you double cleanse? Thorough cleansing, improved absorption, and enhanced hydration.  

Read on to discover why we at Skin Laundry always advocate double cleansing. 

What is Double Cleansing?  

Double cleansing isn’t just about washing your face twice – it’s about washing your face twice using two different types of cleanser: First, an oil-based cleanser, and second a water-based cleanser.  

Why Double Cleanse?  

Cleansing is a non-negotiable step in any skincare routine. Cleansing not only helps to remove dead skin cells, pollutants and dirt as well as makeup and SPF, it also prevents your skin from becoming congested, which can allow bacteria to thrive and lead to breakouts and blackheads. Clean skin can also better receive and absorb products and active ingredients in the rest of your routine.  

Double cleansing ticks all of these boxes, removing stubborn, pore-clogging and acne-causing impurities that can remain on the skin even after washing your face once.   

The first step in a double cleanse should be done with a micellar or oil-based cleanser to gently break down waterproof makeup, sunscreen, and excess oil without irritating or drying out the skin.  

The second step in a double cleanse should be done with a water-based, foaming cleanser to remove any remaining sweat, dirt, or residue.  

What are the benefits of Double Cleansing?  

The benefit of double cleansing is that the first cleanser will break down any makeup, remove dirt and excess oils from the day and clean your skin. The second cleanser then washes away any remaining dirt and debris while also addressing your particular skin type, i.e., hydration, acne, or brightening.  

Double cleansing not only ensures a thorough cleanse, as many water-based cleansers cannot effectively remove makeup and sunscreen, but can also be tailored for specific skin types and concerns while avoiding over-washing and over-drying your skin. 

A double cleanse can also help ensuing products, like a serum or night cream, penetrate deeper into the skin, making them more efficient.  

When should you Double Cleanse?  

Double cleansing should only be done at night when you need to remove makeup and sunscreen. It is generally suitable for all skin types, as long as you choose formulas that are specifically formulated for your skin type. Both formulas should also feature hydrating ingredients that will not strip your skin of essential moisture or leave your skin feeling dry.