Double cleansing means washing your face twice in one routine: first with an oil-based cleanser or balm to dissolve make-up, sunscreen and excess oil, then with a gentle water-based cleanser to clean the skin itself. It is most useful in the evening for people who wear waterproof make-up or heavy sunscreen. For most other people, one thorough wash with a gentle cleanser is enough, and washing twice can be drying.
Double cleansing became popular through Korean and Japanese skincare, and it is now a familiar step on social media. It works because oil dissolves oil: make-up, sunscreen and sebum lift away far more easily with an oil-based product, leaving the second cleanser free to do its job. Whether you need it depends on what is on your skin at the end of the day. For the bigger picture, see our guide to a good skin care routine.
How to Double Cleanse
- Start with dry hands and a dry face. Most oil cleansers and balms work best on dry skin.
- Massage the oil cleanser in for about a minute, gently, to break down make-up, sebum and sunscreen.
- Rinse with lukewarm water, using your hands or a soft cloth. Hot water dries the skin.
- Keep your skin damp and apply a water-based cleanser, such as a gentle gel, cream or foam.
- Rinse again and pat dry with a soft towel, then carry on with the rest of your routine.
These steps follow dermatologist Dr Jane Wu's explanation of the double cleansing method for Cleveland Clinic.
Who Benefits and Who Can Skip It
| You… | Double cleanse? |
|---|---|
| Wear waterproof mascara, long-wear foundation or heavy sunscreen | Yes, in the evening |
| Have oily skin | Possibly; an oil cleanser first can remove excess sebum, but test how your skin reacts |
| Wear little or no make-up | Usually not needed; one gentle cleanse is enough |
| Have dry or sensitive skin | Be cautious; washing twice can be drying. A single cream or oil cleanser may be kinder |
| Are prone to breakouts | Try it carefully; oil cleansers suit some acne-prone skin and trigger spots in others |
Spot-prone? Choose non-comedogenic products and rinse the oil cleanser off thoroughly. Our guide to skincare for acne-prone skin has more on choosing cleansers.
Choosing Your Two Cleansers
First Cleanse: Oil-Based
Cleansing oils, balms and oil-to-milk cleansers. They should emulsify, turning milky with water, so they rinse off cleanly.
Second Cleanse: Water-Based
A gentle gel, cream or light foam. Avoid harsh foaming washes that leave skin squeaky and tight.
Simpler Alternative
Dr Wu suggests micellar water to remove make-up, followed by your usual water-based cleanser.
Morning Routine
There is no need to double cleanse in the morning. A rinse or a single gentle wash is plenty.
Signs You Are Over-Cleansing
Tightness straight after washing, flaking, stinging when you apply moisturiser, or more oiliness later in the day can all mean you are stripping your skin. Drop back to one gentle cleanse, keep the water lukewarm and moisturise straight afterwards.
An Oil Cleanser for the First Step
All-in-One Organic Argan Oil Cleanser by Douvall's
A plant-based, eco-certified organic argan oil cleanser that the brand says melts away stubborn mascara and waterproof make-up while leaving skin hydrated rather than tight. Designed with sensitive skin in mind, it makes an easy first cleanse before a gentle water-based wash.
View ProductFrequently Asked Questions
Is double cleansing necessary?
Not for everyone. It helps if you wear waterproof make-up or heavy sunscreen. If you do not, one thorough wash with a gentle cleanser is usually enough.
Should I double cleanse morning and night?
Only at night. In the morning there is no make-up or sunscreen to remove, so a single gentle wash or a rinse is enough.
Can I use micellar water instead of an oil cleanser?
Yes. Micellar water removes make-up well, and following it with a water-based cleanser is a simple alternative to double cleansing.
Does double cleansing cause breakouts?
It can for some people, especially if the oil cleanser is not rinsed off well. Choose non-comedogenic products and watch how your skin responds.
Sources: Cleveland Clinic, Double Cleansing Method Explained: Should You Try It? (Dr Jane Wu).