The 1 step in your skincare routine you should probably be repeating
By now, it's pretty likely you've heard about the concept of double cleansing. Many skincare experts and influencers swear by the two-step cleansing method—and insist it's the only way to really remove all of the dirt, sunscreen, and makeup that can accumulate on your complexion over the course of the day.
But—really now—is it a must for achieving clear, truly clean skin, or is the rinse-and-repeat method going way overboard? For answers to those questions, we consulted three top dermatologists.
Meet the experts: Robert Finney, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist and founder of Soho Skin and Hair Restoration in NYC. Marisa Garshick, MD, FAAD, is a board-certified dermatologist in NYC and clinical assistant professor of dermatology at Weill Cornell Medicine. Pooja Rambhia, MD, is a board-certified cosmetic dermatologist at UnionDerm in NYC.
What is double cleansing?
Double cleansing is exactly what it sounds like: cleansing your face twice.
Typically, you'd use an oil-based cleanser first to break up dirt, sunscreen, and makeup and dissolve excess oil or sebum on the skin before rinsing and following up with a water-based cleanser for a deeper clean. Micellar water can also work as a first step and is a lighter option that doesn’t require rinsing.
Is it necessary, though? The answer is, that depends. The two-step cleanse may benefit some, says Manhattan-based board-certified dermatologist, Marisa Garshick, MD, FAAD, says. “For heavy makeup-wearers, it can be helpful to ensure that makeup is completely removed.” It can also be beneficial to those with oily, acne-prone skin or those who wear makeup or sunscreen regularly, adds board-certified cosmetic dermatologist, Pooja Rambhia, MD. “It ensures that all layers of product and impurities are removed, which is crucial for preventing clogged pores, breakouts, and dullness,” she explains.
That being says, New York-based board-certified dermatologist Robert Finney, MD, FAAD, warns that on some skin types, the process can have some unintended negative side effects. “It can be do more damage for someone with sensitive skin who isn't wearing makeup," he says. "There is absolutely no need to double cleanse in this instance, and doing can disrupt skin's protective barrier, leading to dryness and irritation.” Keep that in mind when considering if the double cleanse is right for you.
How to double cleanse
Apply and gently massage a dime-sized amount of an oil-based cleanser or micellar water into dry skin. This step will help break down residue and oil-based impurities sitting on the skin.
Rinse with lukewarm water, either using a washcloth or your hands.
Apply a small amount of the water-based cleanser and work it into your skin with gentle, circular motions to remove any remaining residue and impurities.
Be sure to rinse your face thoroughly until the skin feels free of cleanser.
Gently pat the skin dry using a clean towel or leave the skin damp and follow with moisturiser.
The best types of cleansers for every skin type
Different skin types have different needs, so the type of cleanser you need may vary in terms of what benefits the cleanser offers and what your skin needs. Read ahead to get an idea of what you should be double-cleansing with based on your skin type.
Oily skin: Gel and foam cleansers are recommended as they’re great at dissolving excess oil that can clog pores and cause breakouts. Look for ingredients like salicylic and lactic acids.
Dry skin: A gentle cleanser formulated with hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and ceramides is what you want. Formulas with a creamy or lotion-like texture are best as they’re typically more hydrating and less likely to strip the skin.
Normal/combination skin: Gel, foaming, and oil-based formulas can all work well for combination skin. If you choose a gel or foam cleanser, look out for hydrating ingredients that shouldn’t dry out the skin. If you use an oil-based cleanser and it breaks you out, stop.
Acne-prone skin: A cleanser that effectively reduces excess oil, unclogs pores, and tackles breakouts is key. Look for acne-fighting ingredients and anti-inflammatory properties like benzoyl peroxide and azelaic acid.
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