The Double Cleanse: Are You Removing Your Makeup Wrong?

What Is Double Cleansing?

Double cleansing is a technique which was first popularised in Japan and South Korea but is now spreading in popularity across the world. Simply put, double cleansing involves two different types of cleansers being used, one after the other. To clarify, there are no guidelines here. You can use whatever cleansers you like - and you don’t have to stray from your absolute favourites. However, saying that this technique was popularised with good old-fashioned oil-based cleansers. 

However, more modern cleansing balms and general cleansers have slightly more advanced ingredients nowadays. They typically include an ingredient known as an emulsifier, which allows the oil to mix with water, and more of a milky emulsion. This means we can say goodbye to any greasy residue that can be left over from an oil cleanser.

When Should You Double Cleanse?

So, now we know what we are getting ourselves into, how often should we be double cleansing? It’s common with the double cleansing technique to only do it at night. After all, whilst we sleep, our skin spends its time creating our all-important natural oils, and producing more collagen to prevent sagging and fine lines. Also, the end of the day is the time when our skin is more likely to be covered in makeup, and dirt. 

If you are someone who wears makeup, then double cleansing daily is a great way to keep your skin healthy, and bright. If you choose the au natural look, then a simple one-step cleanse will do the job. Most environmental stressors, grime and dirt can be removed with a standard cleansing technique.

What Are The Benefits Of Double Cleansing?

There are so many benefits to cleansing your skin on a regular basis. It can reduce inflammation of your skin, boost circulation and help improve signs of ageing. However, double cleansing also comes with its very own set of benefits as well.

The main benefit of double cleansing is that the first cleanser will break down any makeup or SPF you have been wearing throughout the day. It can also clear away any dirt and prevent excess oils from building up as well - and then, the magic of the second cleanse takes place. The second cleanse then goes in to address particular skin concerns. You should always look for a cleanser with hydrating ingredients that will work to smooth, or exfoliate your skin. If you suffer from blemishes, this is a great way to introduce spot-fighting ingredients, such as salicylic acid to the skin.

How To Double Cleanse

Now we know the what and the why, let’s talk about the how - how do we double cleanse? Well, simply put:

1. Firstly, wash your face with an oil-based cleanser or serum to remove your makeup and SPF. The oils will cut through dirt on the surface of your skin.

2. Then, wash your face with a water-based cleanser. This will remove any dead skin, bacteria, or sweat that has built up deeper into the skin. Our SkinCeuticals Simply Clean Cleanser is the ideal product to use daily and can be added as your second step to your double cleansing routine. This powerful face wash exfoliates uneven or rough skin and removes stubborn makeup residue, whilst still being gentle enough to use every day. 

3. You know the drill - after your double cleanse, you can continue on your normal skincare routine.