Double cleansing is a popular deep cleansing method that involves using two types of cleanser: an oil-based cleanser to dissolve makeup, sunscreen, excess serum, and other dirt and impurities, and a water-based cleanser to clean any residue of the oil cleanser or impurities and thoroughly clean the skin. 

This technique is perfect for those who wear makeup and sunscreen regularly to help them easily and perfectly clean all that makeup and sweat, which can lead to clogged pores and acne. 

How do I double cleanse?

First step: I use the popular Japanese softymo speedy cleansing oil as the oil-based cleanser. It easily removes any makeup or sunscreen, and especially those sebaceous filaments around your nose or blackheads, whiteheads. You might see them come off as you message the oil on your face. So here’s the exact process of applying cleansing oil: 

1. Apply on dry skin; don’t wet your face or hand. Of course you should clean your hands first, but use the oil cleanser with dry hands. Don’t rub the oil in your hand; just gently put it on your skin and let it sit for a few seconds. 

2. Message the oil on your face in a circular motion to the opposite direction of your facial hair. This way you can get all the gunk away from the hair follicles. 

3. Now wet your hands. I prefer using a few drops to emulsify the oil cleanser and message for at least 1 minute until it turns white and milky to get all the makeup out of your face. 

4. Rinse thoroughly with water.

Second step: For water-based cleanser, I use Cerave hydrating cleanser. Repeat the same process on wet skin, and foam up before applying to skin. 
Make sure to rinse off the cleanser thoroughly; any cleanser residue can trigger acne on your face. Changing your cleansing habits can often help clear up most of your acne.

Pat dry and use your toner/serum/moisturiser on damp skin. 

How Many Ways Are There to Double Cleanse?

There are several ways to double cleanse, depending on the types of cleansers used and your skin type:

1. Oil-Based Cleansing Balm + Water-Based Gel Cleanser

   • Ideal for normal to dry skin. Balms are thicker and more moisturizing, while a gel cleanser ensures thorough cleansing without stripping the skin.

2. Cleansing Oil + Foam Cleanser

   • A popular method where the oil melts makeup and sunscreen, and the foam cleanser removes any leftover impurities. This works well for combination or oily skin.

3. Micellar Water + Gentle Cleanser

   • Micellar water can replace the oil-based step, especially for people with sensitive skin. It’s gentle yet effective for removing light makeup or sunscreen, followed by a water-based cleanser.

4. Oil-Based Makeup Remover Wipes + Cream Cleanser

   • Wipes are convenient for on-the-go double cleansing, though they may not be as effective or thorough. This method is best for quick cleanses but not an everyday routine.

Why Do You Have to Use Another Cleanser After Oil Cleansing?

Using a second cleanser after oil cleansing ensures that any remaining oil residue, impurities, and debris that the oil cleanser may leave behind are removed. Oil-based cleansers effectively dissolve makeup, sunscreen, and sebum, but they can sometimes leave traces of these impurities on the skin. A water-based cleanser ensures the skin is completely clean, reducing the risk of clogged pores and breakouts.

How Did People Oil Cleanse Before the Evolution of Oil Cleansers?

Before modern oil cleansers, people used natural oils for oil cleansing. In the early 2010s, castor oil gained popularity because of its deep-cleaning properties. Castor oil can penetrate deeply into the skin and has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, making it appealing for people with acne or oily skin.

The method involved mixing castor oil with other oils like olive, jojoba, or coconut oil, depending on the skin type, and massaging it into the skin to cleanse pores. The oil would then be wiped away with a warm washcloth.

Other popular oils used historically for cleansing include:

• Olive Oil: Used in ancient Mediterranean regions for its moisturizing and cleansing properties.
• Jojoba Oil: Known for resembling the skin’s natural sebum and popular for balancing oily skin.
• Coconut Oil: Commonly used in tropical regions for both moisturizing and cleansing.

What Are the Benefits of Double Cleansing?

For many people, including myself, the benefits of double cleansing are significant:

• Deep Cleansing: It removes all traces of makeup, sunscreen, and impurities that might otherwise clog pores and cause breakouts.
• Preps Skin for Skincare: Thoroughly cleansed skin is better prepared to absorb serums, moisturizers, and treatments, making your skincare products more effective.
• Prevents Acne and Breakouts: It removes dirt and oil from pores, reducing the risk of acne and blackheads.
• Maintains Skin Hydration: Many oil cleansers are gentle and moisturizing, preventing over-stripping of the skin’s natural oils.

Overall, I’ve found that double cleansing leaves my skin feeling refreshed, smoother, and healthier.

How Does Double Cleansing Work?

Double cleansing works by targeting different types of impurities with two different types of cleansers:

1. Oil-Based Cleanser: Oil-based cleansers effectively remove oil-based impurities such as makeup, sunscreen, and excess sebum. Since oil attracts oil, it breaks down and dissolves these impurities without stripping the skin.

2. Water-Based Cleanser: The second cleanser removes water-based impurities like sweat, dirt, and dust that accumulate on the skin throughout the day. It ensures that any residue left from the oil cleanse is rinsed away, leaving the skin clean and refreshed.

This two-step process allows for a more thorough cleansing without disrupting the skin’s moisture barrier.

Is Double Cleansing Bad for Dry, Sensitive Skin?

Double cleansing is generally safe for dry or sensitive skin, but it depends on the type of cleansers you use. If you have dry or sensitive skin, opt for:

• Gentle Oil Cleansers: Avoid harsh or stripping oils. Look for hydrating oils like squalane or jojoba.
• Mild Water-Based Cleansers: Use non-foaming, sulfate-free cleansers that won’t dry out or irritate your skin.

If done correctly with appropriate products, double cleansing can actually benefit dry, sensitive skin by maintaining moisture while effectively removing impurities. However, using harsh products could worsen dryness or irritation.

Should I Double Cleanse Every Day If I Don’t Wear Sunscreen or Makeup?

If you don’t wear sunscreen or makeup every day, you don’t necessarily need to double cleanse daily. Double cleansing is most beneficial when you need to remove heavy layers of sunscreen, makeup, or when your skin has been exposed to pollution. On makeup-free, low-maintenance days, a single gentle cleanser is enough. Over-cleansing can strip your skin of its natural oils, so it’s better to listen to your skin and adjust based on your daily needs.

Does Oil Cleansing Cause Cystic Acne?

In my experience, double cleansing would only cause cystic acne if:

1. You are using the wrong oil cleanser for your skin type.
2. You are not properly cleansing with the oil and removing it afterward.

Some popular oil based cleansers that are gentle and beginner friendly  :

• Skin1004 Centella Light Cleansing Oil
• Purito From Green Cleansing Oil
• iUNIK Calendula Cleansing Oil
• Softymo cleansing oil
• Chifure cold cream