What is Double Cleansing? The Deal with the Double Cleanse Method

Let’s face it: our skin gets dirty. It’s the price we pay for putting ourselves into a world full of sweat, grime, and pollution — all in the name of living our best lives. But a fresh face is possible with a skincare method that’s so nice that you have to do it twice. That’s right, we’re talking about the benefits of double cleansing.

The twofold technique is adored by skincare buffs and amateurs alike, but why? We’re doubling down on everything you need to know about the double cleansing method.

WHAT IS DOUBLE CLEANSING?

Double cleansing is nothing new. Despite its recent popularity in the West, the double face cleanse method is a centuries-old practice with roots in Japan and Korea.

As part of the double cleansing process, two separate cleansers are required: an oil-based cleanser and a water-based cleanser — hence the “double” in double cleansing.

Psst. Unsure how to choose the best facial cleanser for your skin type? Start here.

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF DOUBLE CLEANSING?

While it may feel counterintuitive to add oil to your skin, oil-cleansing can be beneficial. Oil-based cleansers are a gentler way to dissolve oil-based impurities — like makeup and pollution — from the skin. Oil-based cleansers also allow the skin to hold onto hydration, unlike more moisture-stripping formulas that can leave skin feeling dry and tight.

“Many times a water-based cleanser does not really break up the sunscreen/makeup/sebum and dirt from the day. But a gentle, specially-formulated balm breaks down everything, even long-wear makeup,” said board-certified dermatologist Dr. Renée Snyder.

After rubbing away the first layer of oil-based build-up, water-based cleansers are used to wash away the remaining dirt, dead skin, and debris on the skin’s surface that oil-cleansing might have missed. Double cleansing is a thorough way to wash away dull complexions for healthier, glowy skin for any skin type.

IS DOUBLE CLEANSING RIGHT FOR YOUR SKIN TYPE?

Deciding whether or not to double cleanse is a personal choice, and something you can discover by trial and error if it’s right for your skin. Remember, you don’t always need to double cleanse. If you are a daily sunscreen wearer (and re-applier), wear makeup daily, and expose your skin to pollutants and irritants on a regular basis, double cleansing might be the way to go.

NORMAL OR COMBINATION SKIN

In an interview for Allure, board-certified dermatologist Dr. David Kim, MD said that skin that isn’t particularly oil-prone and only occasional makeup wearers can skip double cleansing everyday and opt for a single gentle cleanser of their choice.

OILY SKIN

Oily skin types can benefit from a gentle double cleansing ritual, too. Dr. Kim also noted, “Because makeup and sebum are lipophilic [meaning they dissolve in oil], using an oil-based cleanser can be more effective” for oily skin types.

DRY SKIN

Dry skin types will want to focus on non-irritating and gentle formulations in their double cleanse. Look for ingredients like shea butter or antioxidant-rich oils, like jojoba or macadamia seed oil to help skin feel hydrated.

SENSITIVE SKIN

Sensitive skin can benefit from double cleansing, too. NBC News also explored the cleansing balm phenomenon, sharing that an oil-based cleansing balm can be a great choice for sensitive and dry skin types. “Unlike some of the other more traditional cleansers, especially those that foam up, a cleansing balm is going to be really non-irritating and won’t dry the skin out or compromise the skin barrier,” says Dr. Sejal Shah, a board-certified dermatologist. “It’s really good for all skin types but especially dry sensitive skin types.”

HOW TO DOUBLE CLEANSE

Adding a double cleanse to your ritual doesn’t have to be complicated. Here’s exactly how to double cleanse with Keys Soulcare offerings.

Start your routine with a small amount of our skin-renewing Nourishing Cleansing Balm. Gently massage the cleansing balm into dry skin and add water, watching the purifying blend of shea butter, bamboo charcoal, and luxurious oils melt away makeup and impurities. Rinse away the formula after 1-2 minutes of relaxing massage.

For your second cleanse, start by lathering up with a few pumps of our Golden Face Cleanser. Relish in the sweet, warm sage and oat milk while buffing away the remaining dirt and debris. Rinse away the remnants of both offerings, and pat skin dry before smoothing on with the rest of your skincare ritual.