What Is Double Cleansing? Benefits and How to Do It Correctly

Double cleansing is a gentle, effective method that uses two cleansers to thoroughly remove makeup, sunscreen, excess oil, and daily impurities without disrupting the skin barrier. This approach helps support clearer, smoother, and more balanced-looking skin while maintaining hydration.

What Is Double Cleansing?

Double cleansing involves using two different types of cleansers:

1. An oil-based cleanser or makeup remover

2. A gentle water-based cleanser

The first cleanse dissolves makeup, sunscreen, and excess oil. The second cleanse removes remaining impurities and refreshes the skin.

Benefits of Double Cleansing

• Helps remove makeup more effectively

• Breaks down sunscreen and excess oil

• Leaves skin feeling clean but not stripped

• Supports clearer-looking skin

• Helps other skincare products absorb better

• Maintains hydration when using gentle formulas

Double cleansing is especially helpful at night when skin has been exposed to environmental buildup throughout the day.

Who Should Double Cleanse?

Double cleansing is ideal for:

• Wearing makeup

• Daily sunscreen use

• Oily or combination skin

• Congestion-prone skin

• Evening skincare routines

It can also benefit dry or sensitive skin when using gentle, non-stripping cleansers.

How to Double Cleanse

Step 1: Start with an oil-based cleanser
Apply to dry skin and gently massage to dissolve makeup, sunscreen, and impurities. Add water to emulsify if using an oil-to-milk formula, then rinse.

Step 2: Follow with a gentle cleanser
Use a milky or cream cleanser to remove remaining residue and refresh the skin without stripping moisture.

Pat skin dry and continue with your skincare routine.

When to Double Cleanse

Double cleansing is best used:

• In the evening

• After wearing makeup

• After sunscreen use

• When skin feels congested

In the morning, a single gentle cleanse is usually sufficient.

Tips for Gentle Double Cleansing

• Use non-stripping formulas

• Avoid harsh foaming cleansers

• Use lukewarm water

• Massage gently, do not scrub

• Follow with hydration and moisturizer

A gentle approach helps support the skin barrier while thoroughly cleansing.

The Bottom Line

Double cleansing is a simple, effective way to thoroughly cleanse the skin while maintaining hydration and balance. Using an oil-based cleanser followed by a gentle second cleanse helps remove buildup without stripping, leaving skin clean, soft, and refreshed.

Where to Start

Double cleansing begins with a gentle first step designed to dissolve makeup, sunscreen, and daily buildup. Purifying Biphasic Makeup Remover and Radiance Reset Oil-to-Milk Cleanser are both ideal options for the first cleanse.

Purifying Biphasic Makeup Remover helps lift away makeup and impurities while leaving skin feeling clean and comfortable. This lightweight formula is especially helpful for removing eye makeup, long-wear products, and sunscreen without harsh rubbing.

Radiance Reset Oil-to-Milk Cleanser transforms from a silky oil into a soft milky emulsion when activated with water. It helps dissolve buildup while maintaining hydration, leaving skin clean, smooth, and balanced.

Follow with a gentle second cleanse to refresh the skin and support a soft, healthy-looking complexion.