Is Double Cleansing Necessary? Let’s Talk Dirty (Skin, That Is) 🧼✨

Let’s be real — by the end of the day, your face has been through a lot.Makeup, sunscreen, sweat, city air, touching your face a million times... it’s a vibe, but not a clean one.

So if you've been wondering whether double cleansing is just another skincare trend or an actual essential step — here’s the clean truth.

What Is Double Cleansing, Anyway?

Double cleansing is exactly what it sounds like:Washing your face twice — but with intention.

Step 1: Use an oil-based cleanser to dissolve makeup, sunscreen, excess sebum, and oil-based debris.Step 2: Follow up with a water-based or gentle foaming cleanser to remove sweat, dirt, and leftover impurities.

Think of it like pre-washing your dishes before putting them in the dishwasher — but for your pores.

Who Should Double Cleanse?

Not everyone needs to double cleanse every single day, but it's highly recommended if you:

• 💄 Wear makeup

• ☀️ Apply sunscreen daily (which you should be doing!)

• 🏙️ Live in an urban or polluted area

• 🏋️‍♀️ Sweat from workouts or hot weather

If you said yes to even one of those, you’ll benefit from adding this extra step.

Why Bother With Two Steps?

Here’s what double cleansing can do for your skin:

✔️ Deeply cleans without stripping skin✔️ Helps prevent clogged pores + breakouts✔️ Boosts the effectiveness of serums and moisturizers✔️ Promotes a brighter, smoother complexion

You’ll actually feel the difference — softer skin, less congestion, and a glow that doesn’t quit.

When NOT to Double Cleanse

If you’ve been bare-faced all day, stayed home, and didn’t sweat, a single gentle cleanse might be enough.Double cleansing isn’t about being extra — it’s about being effective.

How to Start

You don’t need anything fancy.

• Look for a non-comedogenic oil cleanser (meaning it won’t clog pores).

• Choose a gentle, pH-balanced second cleanser that suits your skin type.

Make it a part of your evening ritual. Add a little music, a little massage, and make it feel like self-care — not a chore.

Final Thoughts

Double cleansing isn’t overhyped — it’s just misunderstood.If your skincare routine starts with a solid cleanse, everything else (serums, moisturizers, treatments) works way better.

Clean skin = happy skin.And that means fewer breakouts, better texture, and glow that shows.

Sources

1. Khetarpal, S. (2022). Double Cleansing: Should You Be Doing It? Cleveland Clinic.

2. American Academy of Dermatology. Face Washing 101.

3. Wong, L. (2020). Why Double Cleansing Is a Must in Your PM Routine. KraveBeauty.

4. Wilson, J. (2021). Dermatologists Explain the Benefits of Double Cleansing. Dermstore Blog.