Because we all agree the best way to remove makeup, Sunscreen and daily build up isn’t makeup wipes right?
Washing your face, especially before bed is really important to remove all that dirt and debris from the day and set the stage for the rest of your skincare routine. But what happens when doing it just once doesn't cut it?
Enter double cleansing.
Double cleansing is exactly what it sounds like: cleansing the skin twice.
The concept behind double cleansing is to first remove whatever is on the skin (think: makeup, sunscreen, dirt, oil, and buildup from the day), and then cleansing the skin a second time to actually get the skin clean.
So, in order to get the most benefit out of all those moisturisers, serums and acids you’re using, you should always ensure you’re cleansing your skin properly, ideally twice, particularly in the evening before you go to bed especially if you’re wearing makeup and sunscreen.
What is Double Cleansing?
Double cleansing is a two-step skin cleansing technique that involves washing your face twice in a single setting with two different types of cleansers.
The first is usually an oil-based cleanser which is usually oil-based or a balm, breaks down makeup, oil-based products, and oil. While the second one, a water-based cleanser, focuses more on a deeper clean to remove everything else from the surface.
This double-step approach to cleansing leaves the skin much cleaner so that it’s softer, more glowy, and less likely to break out—and it’s also perfect for removing every last trace of makeup.
Extra Hint: it’s possible to double cleanse with two regular cleansers if oils aren’t right for you.
Benefits of Double Cleansing
If "wear sunscreen" is the golden rule of skin care, "wash your face" certainly takes home silver. That's because a clean face is a healthier one.
But Why do you need to use two cleansers?
A quick wash and go or lazy swipe with a makeup wipe will not properly clean your skin and if all of that foundation is left on your skin overnight, it becomes a breeding ground for bad things to happen to your face.
That’s why you need to double cleanse. There are 3 main benefits to double cleansing.
Firstly, Double cleansing offers a way to gently but effectively eliminate excess oil and buildup from the skin without vigorous scrubbing or stripping of the skin of its natural oils.
The first step of a double cleanse, cleansing oils, balms, and oil-based cleansers, are designed to be gentle on the skin. If you tend to wear heavy makeup every day and a traditional cleanser is not enough to remove it, then it may help to double cleanse as part of your evening routine to ensure the makeup is completely removed.
Secondly, a double cleanse can help follow-on products like serums, creams penetrate deeper into the skin, meaning they will absorb better and work faster.
Finally, Cleansing thoroughly before bed ensures that your skin has the best chance of regenerating overnight and that no leftover grime is going to cause breakouts or irritation. Not only is a double cleanse meant to give a more thorough cleanse, it can also revitalise dull skin to give you a healthy glow.
How To Pick The Right Double Cleanser For Your Skin Type
Thoroughly cleansing your face without drying it out can be a delicate balance, but it can be done well when you pick the right cleansers for your skin type and keep a few things in mind.
If you have dry or sensitive skin
Always stick with gentle cleansers and avoid oil-stripping cleansers or scrubs as the second step. Instead, creamy, hydrating cleansers with shea butter and jojoba oil are best. Emollient-rich balms with natural oils will help retain moisture in the skin without compromising the skin barrier.
Neutriherbs Vitamin C-Replenishing Cleansing Oil is formulated with Lavandula stoechas Extract also known as Spanish lavender to help soothe and relieve dry sensitive skin while Neutriherbs Vitamin E Gentle Cleanser as your second cleanser is designed to nourish.
If you have oily or acne-prone skin
Then, a gentle exfoliating cleanser or a gel-based one with salicylic or glycolic acid can help to control oil production and excess shine without stripping the skin.
Pair Neutriherbs Vitamin C Cleansing Oil featuring Jojoba Oil which is similar in structure with sebum and works deep to unclog pores. For the second cleanse, try Neutriherbs Salicylic acid Exfoliating Gel Cleanser - a breakout-fighting, foaming cleanser to cleanse oils, dead skin cells, and dirt that clog pores and cause breakouts.
If you have dull skin
This skin type is often caused by a buildup contributed by environmental factors, sebum, and dead skin cells.
For radiant, healthy-looking skin, Combine Neutriherbs Vitamin C Cleansing Oil featuring Glycyrrhiza Glabra which helps remove excess melanin to prevent new dark spots and fade existing ones.
Pair with Neutriherbs Daily Vitamin C facial Cleanser, a brightening and glow cleanser that renews dull, even skin tone and replenishes skin.
If you have Aging skin
Mature skin types opt for anti aging ingredients like Retinol, Collagen, peptides in their second cleanser to help reduce appearance of premature aging.
Try Neutriherbs Vitamin C Cleansing Oil and Neutriherbs Pro Retinol Cleanser.
How to Double Cleanse Properly
Whether you pick a cleansing oil or oil-based balm followed by a gel, lotion, or cream, the method is the same.
1) Apply the oil-based cleanser to your palm, and use your fingers to gently massage it into your skin using circular motions for around a minute.
Don’t forget the area around the eyes and the hairline. Oil-based cleansers should be fine to remove eye makeup as long as they’re free from fragrance.
2) Rinse the first cleanser off the skin with either a washcloth or your hands and lukewarm water to avoid dehydration.
Oil-based cleansers that contain an emulsifier are typically easier to remove, as the oil combines with water to create a milky-type substance.
3) With the skin still wet, lather your second cleanser into the skin and wash the face again. Spend more time working the cleanser into a nice lather and the skin to remove the previously used oil entirely.
You shouldn’t need to use a lot — just a dollop that’ll nicely cover your face.
4) Once the minute is up, Splash and rinse the second cleanser off the skin with lukewarm water and pat skin dry with a towel.
How Often Should You Double Cleanse?
It all depends on your skin type and lifestyle habits. But if you’re looking for some general guidelines, here are some:
- Heavy Makeup and Sunscreen Users: Consider double cleansing daily especially at night to ensure a thorough cleanse
- Sensitive or Dry Skin: Double cleanse on days you wear heavy makeup and sunscreen, but otherwise daily use is not needed.
- Oily acne prone Skin: you can double cleanse in the mornings, too, especially if you produce a lot of sebum while you sleep.
Remember that you don’t have to double cleanse every time you wash your face. If your skin isn’t overly oily or you don’t wear much makeup, you may choose to double cleanse only when necessary. Pay attention to how your skin responds. If you notice signs of excessive dryness or irritation, then you’ll want to reduce the amount you double cleanse.
Double cleansing FAQs
Isn’t it time-consuming?
You may actually find you put in less effort with a double cleanse, as you don’t have to work as hard with each product.
Plus, you’ll probably only spend an extra minute all in all.
Do you need to double cleanse if you don’t wear makeup?
First of all, no one has to double cleanse. But it isn’t just beneficial for makeup wearers.
Oil-based cleansers get rid of sunscreen and other oily substances that naturally build up on the skin.
Once these are gone, the second cleanser doesn’t have to fight through an extra layer of impurities.
Won’t an oil cleanser cause breakouts?
This is a common misconception, according to some experts.
They say that oil plus oil doesn’t create more oil, pointing out that cleansing oils can remove pore-clogging substances that may lead to breakouts.
However, there’s little research to back this up, and the American Academy of Dermatology advises people with oily skin to avoid oil-based second cleansers and instead opt for water/gel based formula.
Is it possible to over-wash your skin?
Yes, and it’s easily noticeable, as skin is likely to show signs of dryness or irritation.
However, with the right cleansers and technique, double cleansing shouldn’t harm the skin.
Ensure you gently massage the skin, rather than harshly rubbing it, and stick to a nighttime double cleanse if you feel twice a day is too much.
Certain skin types should look out for specific over-washing signs.
People with dry skin will obviously notice further dryness, but oily skin types may notice their skin becomes oilier and more prone to breakouts.
Inflammation may occur in those who have acne.
Can you double cleanse with the same cleanser?
It is not advisable to double cleanse with the same type of cleanser. It is best to use an oil-based cleanser for your first cleanse, and then a water-based cleanser for your second cleanse.
Can double cleansing cause purging?
Yes, for some people double cleansing – usually the first oil cleansing step – can cause some purging. However, this is only temporary and can be reduced by only double cleansing in the evenings, rather than twice daily. Stick to a single cleanse in the mornings.
Discover more about the differences between skin purging and skin breakouts in our previous blog.
Is double cleansing necessary?
Double cleansing is not necessary in the morning, but in the evenings, double cleansing helps to remove the build up of impurities from the day. Not only will a double cleanse help to remove dirt, bacteria, traces of makeup and congestion, it will also help your other skincare products to be better absorbed by the skin.
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