Multi-step skincare routines are having a moment right now and with good reason: they work. Double cleansing plays a key role in any layered skincare routine, but it can be tough to understand why it’s important.
That’s why we’re doing a deep dive into double cleansing. We’ll not only tell you how to double cleanse, we’ll explain how it benefits your skin. So grab your favorite fluffy towel and get ready to get your cleanest, healthiest skin ever as we share everything you need to know about double cleansing.
What Is Double Cleansing?
Technically speaking, a double cleanse is washing your face twice.
“You wouldn’t mop your floors before you sweep them,” explains Biossance Director Of Global Education McKenzie Rose. “You want to remove the dirt before cleaning the skin, otherwise you’re just spreading it around. And you don’t want your skincare to sit on top of dirty skin.”
Removing all the dirt, dead skin cells, sebum, and makeup helps prevent clogged pores and helps skincare penetrate more deeply. That’s why a customized double cleanse is important for every skin type.
How To Double Cleanse
McKenzie recommends using an oil-based cleanser such as our Squalane + Antioxidant Cleansing Oil or Squalane + Elderberry Jelly Cleanser.
“The oil is what dissolves the dirt, makeup, and sebum,” explains McKenzie. “Apply it to dry skin and massage it in before adding water to emulsify.”
Once you’ve rinsed your face clean, it’s time to go in with a second gentle cleanser of your choosing.
“I love our Squalane + Amino Aloe Gentle Cleanser,” says McKenzie. “The combination of squalane and aloe makes it hydrating and soothing for sensitive skin, and it lathers to a satisfying foam for oilier skin types.”
Do I Need To Double Cleanse If I Use Toner?
If you use a cotton pad to apply toner, you may have noticed that it’s discolored after you’re finished. But that doesn’t mean your toner is cleaning your skin.
“Toners that have treatment benefits are not meant to be removed with water, so the main purpose of the solution is not about removing dirt, it’s the start of your treatments. With the Squalane + BHA Pore Minimizing Toner it provides gentle exfoliation benefits,” says McKenzie.
Hence why toner is not a substitute for a second cleanse. It’s meant to deliver active ingredients that stay on the skin and help balance its pH, further preparing it to receive serum and moisturizer.
The discoloration on your cotton pad is likely dead skin cells sloughed off in the act of rubbing your face with a cotton pad. If anything, you’re seeing how a single cleanse falls short.
How To Incorporate Double Cleansing Into Your Routine
Double cleanse every evening as part of your nighttime routine to literally take the day off. If your skin is on the oily side, you also have the option to double cleanse in the morning if you’re feeling oily.
Afterwards, follow with your usual skincare routine. You’ll likely notice how your skin absorbs your serum, eye cream, and moisturizer more quickly. Over time, you’ll likely notice that your skin is brighter and more hydrated, with fewer clogged pores.
Skin goals: check.
Christine Tusher
Author
As a lifestyle writer and journalist, I’m excited to bring my passion for storytelling to Biossance as an Engagement Content Writer. Two things you should know about me: I have a deep love of the ocean (especially sharks) and I’m obsessed with clean beauty. My bathroom cabinet is literally overflowing with my many-layered sustainable skincare routine. This combo is what led me to buy my first bottle of Vitamin C Rose Oil. I was so impressed by the way it improved my skin that I wanted to shout this brand from the rooftops. Three years later, and here I am doing just that. I’m excited to be on this journey of clean beauty innovation with Biossance, and to share it with you here on the blog.