Unpacking the Double Cleansing Method—Plus, Top-Rated Face Washes for Each Step
Few skin-care steps are as important as the cleanse, considering it sets the stage for the rest of your routine. Particularly at night, double cleansing ensures your skin is adequately prepped with a deep clean.
“Double cleansing is exactly what it sounds like: cleansing the skin twice,” explains Los Angeles–based esthetician to the stars Candace Marino. “The concept behind [the practice] 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.” The methodology has its origins in Korea as a mainstay in K-beauty rituals, though it has risen in popularity stateside over the last five years.
Benefits of Double Cleansing
According to board-certified dermatologist Dr. Kim Nichols, this promotes not only a more thorough wash but also targets specific skin concerns and promotes a healthier complexion overall. Plus, as she explained, everyone could benefit from double cleansing.
“But because this method works to gently unclog pores as opposed to an irritating scrub or exfoliant, this cleansing method is most beneficial for those who either wear makeup every day or those who struggle with oily skin, whiteheads, and comedonal acne,” she details. “In addition, those living in cities with poor air quality and high levels of pollution are at a higher risk of clogged pores, breakouts, and even premature aging, making them excellent candidates for double cleansing.
How to Double Cleanse
Typically, double cleansing is achieved with two different formulas. The first is typically an oil-based wash like a cleansing oil, balm, or cream cleanser that can slough away impurities with ease. The second cleanse, which should work to exfoliate, smooth, brighten, or hydrate the skin, is achieved through a water-based gel, foam, or micellar water. Oftentimes, people choose to double cleanse at night followed by a gentle, conditioning wash in the morning just to refresh the skin.
As with any other part of your regimen, curate your cleansing to your liking.
“Double cleansing should never cause skin tightness, rashes, irritation, or breakouts,” says Nichols. “To prevent over-washing and its adverse effects on the skin, it is crucial to use the correct products based on [your] skin type. Know that double cleansing, like all skin-care routines, is not one-size-fits-all, so each individual may have different practices for best cleansing their skin.” With this guidance in mind, read on to learn more about each cleansing step, along with our edit of the best formulas to try.
Step One: The Melt Cleanse
Marino dubs the first step “the melt cleanse,” as it looks to cut through makeup and impurities; it’s a process made simple with cleansing oils, balms, and rich cream cleansers. Because of their conditioning properties, this is significantly impactful for those with dry skin or throughout the winter. While you’re aiming to remove dirt, you do not want to strip your skin of its essential oils.
Step Two: The True Cleanse
The second step of a double cleansing routine will likely look like the cleanser you’d typically gravitate toward; meaning it’s the one most reflective of addressing skin concerns from dryness to pigmentation and signs of aging. Just steer clear of formulas that will leave your skin feeling dry or taut.
Step Three: The Glow Cleanse
Marino often takes double cleansing a step further by rounding out the sequence with an exfoliating wash to ensure the skin is free of any buildup and makeup, particularly around the hairline, neck, and ears. She recommends her clients complete this “triple cleanse” in their nighttime routine for all makeup wearers or those who prefer a facial-like treatment.
“Years later, my clients (and myself) are still triple cleansing, and many report clearer, brighter and healthier skin,” she shares.
Keep in mind, though, that this is not to replace your exfoliation regimen but to give your skin a needed glow boost via a gentle, exfoliating cleanse. Marino cites enzyme-based cleansers as just the ticket for resurfacing sans irritation.
While Jan Marini and Revision Skincare formulas are powered by papaya enzymes amongst other exfoliants, Lancer Skincare looks to pumpkin and pomegranate enzymes to buff away dead skin and diminish sebum on oily skin. The Elemis wash is another excellent pick infused with the brand’s Tri-Enzyme technology, white truffle, and babassu to reveal a bright, smooth complexion. Et voila, your skin is adequately prepped for the rest of your skin-care routine.
