How to double cleanse

How to double cleanse, step by step

1. 1Apply the oil based cleanser. Put the cleanser in your palm and gently work it over your face with your fingertips to loosen makeup, sunscreen and excess oil.
2. 2Rinse with lukewarm water. Use your hands rather than a washcloth or sponge, which can irritate skin. Avoid hot water and scrubbing.
3. 3Apply the water based cleanser. Leave your face damp after the first rinse, then gently apply the second cleanser with your fingertips.
4. 4Rinse thoroughly and pat dry. Use a soft towel rather than rubbing your face.
5. 5Moisturize if your skin is dry or itchy. Apply cream gently around your eyes without pulling the skin.

Which cleansers should you use?

Choose an oil based cleanser for the first wash and a gentle water based cleanser for the second. Cream cleansers are less drying than foaming cleansers, making them a better choice for dry or sensitive skin. Foaming cleansers are an option for oily or combination skin. Avoid harsh, excessively drying or fragranced cleansers.1

The oil cleanser loosens oily residue, while the water based cleanser removes sweat and dirt, so the two bottles should have different jobs rather than matching outfits. Cleansers contain surfactants, ingredients that help oil and dirt wash away. One part of a surfactant attaches to oil and dirt; another part allows water to carry them away. Water alone does not remove all the dirt that sticks to skin.13

Do you need to double cleanse every day?

Use the extra step when you need to remove waterproof makeup or sunscreen, usually during your evening wash. Most people do not need it at every wash, because a second bottle is not a promotion requirement for the first. General face washing guidance is to wash once in the morning and once at night, plus after heavy sweating. Two stages in one wash are not a reason to add more washing sessions.12

Micellar water followed by a water based cleanser is another way to remove makeup. Olive oil can remove oily makeup residue and waterproof mascara, but it can clog pores and cause pimples. Avoid using olive oil on an already oily face or other acne prone areas. Being useful in the kitchen does not give an oil a second qualification in skincare.14

What if your skin is sensitive or you use acne treatment?

Sensitive skin often stings during or just after cleansing. Adding another wash is not the priority if cleansing already hurts. Acne cleansers containing treatment ingredients need caution when you also use acne products that stay on your skin: too much treatment can cause excessive dryness and irritation. An oil based cleanser can also cause breakouts, particularly when used alone.13

If you have rosacea, choose a mild cleanser rather than soap and fragrance free products rather than merely unscented ones. Avoid rubbing, scrubbing or massaging. Gently apply and rinse with your fingertips, removing all cleanser because leftover cleanser can irritate. Apply rosacea medication before moisturizer, and let your face dry before moisturizing to reduce burning or stinging. Ask your dermatologist for product suggestions if gentle options are difficult to find.5

Stop the extra cleansing step if it causes dryness, irritation or stinging. Excessive washing removes protective surface oils and increases water loss; cleansers can also cause red, dry, chafed skin or reactions such as itching and swelling. Arrange a dermatologist appointment if symptoms persist or you have concerns about a reaction.23