Should you double cleanse your body?

When is the extra wash useful?

An oil cleanser helps break down waterproof makeup, sunscreen residue and excess skin oil. The second cleanser removes sweat, dirt and remaining residue. Consider the extra step on areas wearing stubborn sunscreen or body makeup when you wash those products off, rather than making every shower a two cleanser routine. Ordinary cleansers already remove oil, odours, makeup, sunscreen and dirt, so wearing sunscreen does not automatically mean you need two washes.123

How to double cleanse your body

1. 1Gently massage an oil cleanser over the areas where you need to remove sunscreen or body makeup. Follow the cleanser's application directions.
2. 2Rinse with lukewarm water. Avoid hot water, which can dry your skin.
3. 3Keep your skin damp and gently massage in a water based cleanser. Choose a gentle formula rather than a harsh or excessively drying wash.
4. 4Rinse thoroughly and pat dry with a soft towel rather than rubbing.
5. 5Apply a fragrance free moisturizer while your skin is still damp. If your skin is dry, choose a cream or ointment rather than a lotion.

Keep baths and showers to five to ten minutes if your skin is dry. Use enough cleanser to remove dirt and oil without building a thick lather, and apply it only where needed. Foam is not a receipt proving that your skin is clean. Cleansers contain surfactants, ingredients that loosen oil and dirt so water can rinse them away.24

What if your body skin is dry or sensitive?

Choose a single gentle wash rather than adding another cleansing step to dry or sensitive skin. Excessive washing removes surface oils, increases moisture loss and can cause irritation. Dry shins are especially common, so there is no reason to wash them twice simply because another area needs makeup removal. Choose fragrance free products; "unscented" products can contain ingredients that hide odours and irritate sensitive skin.245

For dry or itchy skin, an emollient, meaning a moisturizer, can serve as a soap substitute. Use a suitable emollient cleanser instead of regular soap, not as a first step followed by shower gel. These washes clean without foaming, so a quiet shower is still a functioning shower. Mix a small amount with warm water in your palm, spread over the skin, rinse and pat dry. Take care because emollients can make the shower slippery. Keep emollient contaminated clothing and bedding away from flames and cigarettes.67

Will double cleansing help body breakouts?

Do not treat extra washing as an acne treatment. Oil cleansers can cause breakouts, especially when used alone, and overwashing can also contribute to breakouts. Be cautious with an acne cleanser if you already use an acne treatment that stays on the skin: combining too much treatment can cause excessive dryness and irritation.12

When should you stop?

Stop using a product that makes your skin itchy or sore. If an emollient wash stings and the stinging continues after rinsing, ask a pharmacist for an alternative. Tell a dermatologist about burning, stinging or irritation, and seek help if dryness persists despite gentler washing and moisturizing.467