What does double cleansing mean?

What do the two cleansers do?

The first cleanser breaks down makeup, sunscreen and sebum, the oil your skin produces. The second washes away remaining dirt and the oil from the first step. Double cleansing means using two different cleanser types in one session, rather than washing morning and night or repeating the same face wash twice.1

Do you actually need to double cleanse?

Consider it if you wear makeup, especially waterproof makeup, or need help removing sunscreen. Most face washes do not remove all makeup, so a separate makeup removal step before a gentle wash can be useful. Oily skin can also benefit from an oil cleanser followed by a water based cleanser in the evening.12

If one gentle cleanser does the job, stick with one. Double cleansing is not universally better, and extra washing can cause irritation. The name describes two cleansing steps, not an obligation to give every evening a sequel.13

How do you double cleanse?

1. 1Gently massage an oil cleanser or cleansing balm over your face to loosen makeup, sunscreen and excess oil.
2. 2Rinse the first cleanser away with lukewarm water.
3. 3While your skin is still wet, gently apply a water based cleanser with your fingertips. Wash away the remaining residue without scrubbing.
4. 4Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water and gently pat with a soft towel. Do not rub.
5. 5Apply moisturizer while your skin is still slightly damp to help trap water in your skin.

Which products should you choose?

Choose a gentle, nonabrasive second cleanser without alcohol, and avoid heavily fragranced products. Use your hands rather than a washcloth, sponge or cleansing brush, because those can irritate skin. If your skin is dry, choose a gentle cleanser labeled for sensitive skin and avoid drying foaming formulas and ordinary bar soap.346

For makeup removal, micellar water is another option before your usual cleanser; the classic double cleansing method uses an oil cleanser or balm first. Products do not have to be expensive to work, so the second cleansing step does not require a second financial commitment of historical significance.25

How often should you do it?

Keep double cleansing to the evening when you need to remove the day's makeup or sunscreen. General face washing guidance is once in the morning and once at night, plus after heavy sweating, rather than adding extra washing sessions. If your skin tends to be dry, washing just once daily, preferably in the evening, can be enough.146

Who should be careful?

Dry or sensitive skin, particularly skin affected by eczema or rosacea, can find double cleansing too stripping. Excess washing removes protective surface oils and increases water loss. Be cautious with acne treatment cleansers if you already use acne products that stay on your skin: combining them can cause excessive dryness and irritation.17

Introduce new products one at a time. For sensitive skin, test a small amount behind your ear along the jawline and wait one to two days before using it across your face. If a product causes irritation, stop using it and make an appointment with a dermatologist.23