Should you double cleanse oily skin?

Is double cleansing good for oily skin?

The usual method uses an oil based cleanser first, followed by a water based cleanser. Double cleansing describes two washes, not a promotion to a higher tier of clean. It can be useful for very oily skin, but oil based cleansers can also irritate skin. That makes the traditional oil first method an option to consider carefully, not the default oily skin routine.12

How should you cleanse oily skin?

1. 1Start with a mild, gentle foaming face wash. Cleanse up to twice daily and after sweating.
2. 2Remove all makeup before bed. Do not scrub your face to get makeup off.
3. 3If you choose to try traditional double cleansing, use the oil based cleanser before the water based cleanser. Treat the second wash as an optional addition, not something every cleansing session needs.
4. 4Apply moisturizer after cleansing. Leave some water on your skin before applying it to help trap moisture.

Can you use olive oil for the first cleanse?

Avoid olive oil on an already oily face or areas prone to acne. Olive oil can remove makeup residue and waterproof mascara, but it can also clog pores and cause pimples. Being able to dissolve makeup does not make an oil a good choice for oily skin. Makeup removal and suitability for your face are separate questions.4

What can you use for oily skin on your face?

Look for products labeled oil free or noncomedogenic, meaning unlikely to clog pores. Salicylic acid, glycolic acid and lactic acid can help reduce oiliness, but reduce use or stop if irritation develops. For shine during the day, gently press blotting paper against your face for a few seconds rather than rubbing. Use sunscreen outdoors; a moisturizer with broad spectrum SPF 30 or higher can combine moisturizing and sun protection.2

When should you skip the extra wash?

Stop the extra cleansing if dryness or irritation develops. Overwashing can damage the skin barrier and contribute to breakouts or eczema. For sensitive skin, micellar water is another cleansing option. A harsh face wash can also trigger increased oil production, so trying to dry your face out can work against you.12

Be especially careful about adding washes if you use benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, adapalene, tazarotene, tretinoin or prescription isotretinoin. These acne treatments tend to dry and irritate skin. Daily moisturizer can help skin tolerate them. Choose an acne friendly moisturizer labeled oil free, noncomedogenic or won't clog pores. If oiliness, blackheads or acne remain troublesome, see a dermatologist for a treatment plan rather than escalating the washing.23

Is oily skin good?

Skin oil has useful functions. Sebum, the oily substance produced by your skin's oil glands, reduces water loss and helps protect against bacteria and fungi. Sebum has a job, even if skincare marketing would prefer to list it as an enemy. The aim is to manage excess oil while preserving your skin's natural moisture.25

Why is my skin oily?

Hormones called androgens stimulate oil glands to produce sebum. Production increases at puberty and declines with age, particularly after menopause. Oil glands are larger and more numerous on the forehead and chin than in many other areas. Surface oil also contains material from skin cells, sweat and the environment. Oiliness is not simply a sign that you failed to wash enough.5