What is double cleansing, and do we need to double cleanse as part of our skincare routine? (Spoiler alert, yes!)

Most of us already know that cleansing your skin is vital. It’s especially important for the city-dwellers amongst us, as we are constantly bombarded by airborne bacteria and pollution. If we don’t properly clean our skin, these toxins and dirt accumulate, ultimately contributing to ageing, spots, and pigmentation. In short, cleansed skin means healthier-looking skin and double cleansing can help achieve this.

What is double cleansing?

Double cleansing is as simple as it sounds but is it as simple as grabbing a couple of face wipes and giving your skin the once (or twice) over? [hot take – no!]

Double cleansing means that you remove the first layer of dirt, pollution, sunscreen, and make-up, followed by a second cleanse of the deeper layers of pore bacteria and congestion. This process involves thoroughly washing your face with two cleansers. The only catch is that the cleansers must be two different types to work. The first cleanser is usually an oil-based cleanser which is then followed up by a water-based one.

How to double cleanse?

The first cleanse should be with an oil-based cleanser, such as our Cleansing Face Balm. Oil dissolves oil, so it's the most effective way to dissolve makeup, pollution, and any other surface layer dirt throughout the day without drying out your skin. It'll also ensure you get a thorough cleanse without altering the natural balance of your skin. Gently massage the oil-based cleanser and wash it off with a damp muslin like ours or a flannel. The first cleanse helps remove all traces of excess oil and ensures maximum dirt removal to help with the second cleanse.

 

Now it's time for your second cleanse using a water-based cleanser. This helps take care of the stuff you might not necessarily see with the naked eye such as debris. Any gentle cleanser like our NEW Cleansing Face Milk is perfect for this last cleanse. Our new cleanser is made from upcycled oat powder giving it a creamy milky formula that when applied to the face, repairs and restores the skin’s moisture barrier. Using a water-based cleanser ensures you remove any remaining oil as well as bacteria and dead skin cells. Spend time massaging the cleanser on your skin to ensure a deep cleanse and then rinse with warm water. This stage preps the skin to be ready for any other skincare products and ensures maximum absorption and efficacy. A clean surface ensures that products can effectively penetrate your pores.

What is the benefit of double cleansing?

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, but it can also revitalize dull skin and allow other skin care products like your night cream, to penetrate more effectively.

 

 

Top tips for double cleansing

 

Here are some top tips to really help you perfect the art of double cleansing:

 

• You do not need to double cleanse in the morning – your skin does not get dirty enough overnight and doing so may end up stripping your skin.
• Avoid using water that is too hot, as this may leave your skin inflamed or dehydrated.
• Remember that makeup and SPF are designed to stick to the skin. So, in step one, really take the time massaging in your cleanser to ensure you dislodge all dirt, makeup and sunscreen using a muslin cloth.
• Remember that if your skin is not thoroughly clean, any skincare efforts you make after your cleanse will be in vain!