No matter how many steps your skincare routine consists of, there’s one we’d always recommend adding: double cleansing. Just as the name suggests, this simple method involves washing your face twice, using two different cleansing formulas. Originally popularized in several East Asian countries, it’s now a common approach that you’re likely to see while watching night skincare routines on your TikTok FYP.
But what is double cleansing exactly, and what can it do for your skin? Below, we’re breaking down everything you need to know about this transformative skincare step, including the best Milk Makeup products to get the job done.
What Is Double Cleansing?
“Double cleansing refers to any two-step process with two different cleansers,” says dermatologist Joshua Zeichner, M.D. It’s not just the number of cleansers, but also the specific pairing and order you use them in that matters. Instead of grabbing any two random bottles, correct double cleansing protocol starts with an oil-based cleanser before moving on to a water-based formula. This order ensures that you’re able to remove all of your makeup (including every last trace of waterproof liner or mascara) without being too harsh on your skin.
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Double Cleansing Benefits: Why You Should Do It
From pollutants and grime, to makeup, to SPF, there’s a lot that accumulates on your skin throughout the day. Not all cleanser formulas are equipped to remove that buildup, which is where a double cleanse comes in. That isn’t to say your regular cleanser isn’t doing its job; in fact, the formulas on your bathroom shelves are more advanced than ever.
“The latest generation of cleansers are so effective that a double cleanse is not necessary for everyone,” says Dr. Zeichner. “However, times when you need a double cleanse would be when you need to remove a lot of makeup or dirt.” Most water-based formulas will do a great job of sweeping away normal amounts of oil, daily grime, and minimal makeup. But, they’re not usually ideal for dissolving multiple layers of makeup or waterproof formulas. When you leave particles of makeup and dirt on your skin, it becomes harder for the rest of your products to absorb effectively.
While double cleansing can be done across all skin types, anyone with dry skin or sensitive skin should start with a trial run before committing regularly. “In some cases, it can dry out sensitive or skin skin,” says Dr. Zeichner. If you have skin conditions like eczema or rosacea, multiple rounds of cleansing can start to disrupt the deeper layers of your skin, causing irritation. To avoid this, it’s important to tailor your second cleanser to your skin type by choosing gentle formulas that don’t have any acids or exfoliants that could compromise your skin barrier.
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How To Double Cleanse
For the ultimate double-cleansing duo, we recommend pairing a hydrating cleansing balm with a gentle cleanser to reduce any risk of irritation. Cleansing balms add an additional nourishing component to cleansing oils to leave your face feeling soft, bouncy, and refreshed. They use the same oil-dissolves-oil property to wash away your makeup and excess sebum. Try our Hydro Ungrip Cleansing Balm for a solid-to-silk texture that melts into skin on contact and clears all traces of tough makeup and SPF. (It’s also infused with sunflower + soybean oils for deliciously soft skin.) Apply it to dry skin, wet to emulsify the formula, and then rinse it off.
Once your first layer of cleanser is gone, grab your second one. Dr. Zeichner recommends choosing your second cleanser based on your specific skin type. If you have oily or acneic skin, look for foaming formulas or ones with acne-fighting ingredients like salicylic acid. If you’re worried about skin sensitivities, stick to hydrating cleansers or rinse-free micellar formulas like our Hydro Ungrip Makeup Remover + Cleansing Water. Another great pick for all skin types is our Vegan Milk Cleanser, which nourishes your skin with a blend of moisturizing plant milks and is totally fragrance-free.
Once your face is clean and dry, you can move on to the rest of your routine. Just remember to seal it all in with a restorative moisturizer like our Vegan Milk Moisturizer to keep your freshly cleansed skin in its healthiest state.
Meet the Expert
Joshua Zeichner, M.D. (he/him), is an Associate Professor of Dermatology and the Director of Cosmetic & Clinical Research in Dermatology at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City. He is one of the country's key opinion leaders in treating acne and rosacea, and is an expert in cosmeceuticals, skin care, and cosmetic dermatology. As an educator, Dr. Zeichner teaches dermatology residents and regularly lectures to international audiences. His work has been published in the top peer reviewed dermatology journals, and he can be found quoted across national media.
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