In skincare, cleansing is the foundation of any good routine. But did you know how you cleanse can make a huge difference in how your skin looks and feels? Double cleansing, a two-step process that has gained popularity recently, is one of the best ways to ensure your skin is thoroughly clean without over-drying or irritating it.

What is Double Cleansing?

Double cleansing involves using two different types of cleansers in succession to remove all dirt, oil, makeup, and sunscreen from your skin. The first step typically involves an oil-based cleanser, followed by a cream or water-based cleanser. While this may sound like an extra effort, the results are well worth it, as double cleansing ensures that your skin is left completely free from impurities that may cause breakouts or dullness.

The First Step:

Oil-Based Cleanser The first cleanser in a double cleanse routine is usually an oil-based product. You might think that applying oil to your skin will make things worse if you’re prone to acne or oily skin. However, oil-based cleansers are incredibly effective at breaking down makeup, sunscreen, and other stubborn products like waterproof mascara. The Raww Hydrating cleansing oil is a perfect addition to your routine, infused with superfoods which is ideal for sensitive skin. When using oil-based cleansers, it’s important to apply it to dry skin and massage it in with dry hands. This helps the cleanser effectively break down makeup, sunscreen, and dirt. Once you’ve massaged it in, wet your hands with warm water and continue massaging the oil, turning it into a milky texture. Finally, rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water. For a gentler experience, you can use damp hands to emulsify the oil even more.

The Second Step:

Cream or Water-Based Cleanser After removing the bulk of makeup and grime with the oil-based cleanser, the second step is to use a cream or water-based cleanser. This step is meant to remove any residual impurities and to clean the skin. Raww Cosmetics Hydrating Cream Cleanser great for a gentle cleanse for those with drier skin. Best Seller, the Nourishing Gel Cleanser leaves the skin bouncy, dewy and hydrated, applicable for all skin types. These cleansers help to eliminate any leftover residue from the first step while providing moisture and hydration that helps balance your skin’s natural oils. For this step, apply the cream cleanser to damp skin. Massage gently in circular motions, paying attention to any areas where makeup or grime may have been missed. Once you’ve thoroughly cleansed your face, rinse with lukewarm water. Your skin will feel fresh, clean, and hydrated.

What Happens When You Don’t Double Cleanse?

If you skip the double cleansing process, you risk leaving makeup, sunscreen, dirt, and excess oils on your skin. Even if you use a single cleanser, it might not be able to remove all of these impurities, especially waterproof makeup and long-wear products. Residual makeup can clog your pores, leading to breakouts, blackheads, and an overall dull complexion. Not properly cleansing your skin can also affect how well your skincare products work. When makeup and dirt are left on your skin, serums and moisturizers can’t penetrate effectively, reducing their efficacy.

The Benefits of Double Cleansing

• Thorough Cleaning: Double cleansing ensures that all makeup, sunscreen, and impurities are completely removed, leaving your skin truly clean.

• Prevents Breakouts: By removing excess oil, dirt, and makeup, double cleansing reduces the likelihood of clogged pores and breakouts.

• Healthy Glow: When your skin is clean and free from residue, it can better absorb the products you apply afterward, leaving you with smoother, more radiant skin.

• Balanced Skin: Double cleansing with the right products can cleanse without over-drying or stripping your skin’s natural oils, maintaining a healthy balance.

By using an oil-based cleanser followed by a gentle cream or water-based cleanser, you’ll achieve a deep clean that helps keep your skin clear, fresh, and glowing.