Twice As Good: The Double Cleansing Method

There are a few things worth doing twice – cleansing is one of them.

Raise your hand if you didn’t have a solid skincare routine until your mid 20s. I will admit, before Sephora hauls and trips to Ulta my skincare routine consisted of about 3 products. Now with changes in skin from hormones, age and lifestyle I have invested more time (and money) into skincare my practices. The double cleansing method has made a world of difference for newly an inducted skincare girlie like myself.

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What is double cleansing?

The double cleansing method involves washing your face with an oil based cleanser followed by a water based cleanser. This method starts with oil to remove the products that tend to sit on top of your skin like makeup, SPF, oil and dead skin followed by a water based product that removes sweat and dirt. Double cleansing has been long practiced in Korea but has only recently picked up traction in the United States within the last decade.

My experience

My first exposure to using oil as a cleanser was through long time natural beauty Youtuber Francheska of @heyfranhey. This video was a game changer for my skincare routine. It made effective skincare affordable for my budget while also being very simple. A routine is only as good as your ability to maintain it, so this was perfect for me.

What are the benefits of double cleansing?

Double cleansing is full of benefits. In my experience double cleansing has helped in three main ways: 

• Deeper clean – I especially have to double cleanse on the days I wear makeup. It helps to rid my skin of the makeup in a way that only using a makeup wipe wouldn’t. 
• Prepares my skin for use of other products – since the double cleanse provides a deep clean by unclogging pores and removing dirt, the subsequent products in my routine can effectively penetrate my skin.
• Gentle on skin – I believe that starting with oil gently removes products without harsh abrasion or overdrying.

How does double cleansing work?

Double cleansing every night works best for my skin. Choose a frequency that makes the most sense for you and your skincare needs. For the best results it can be helpful to speak with a dermatologist or skincare specialist before adding new products to your routine.

I like to use Trader Joe’s Extra Virgin Olive Oil as my oil based product. After I’ve rubbed off any makeup or product, I will use a damp paper towel or washcloth to remove the oil. I follow up with the Dermalogica Special Cleansing Gel or the Fresh Beauty Soy Hydrating Gentle Face Cleanser as my water based cleanser. Finally I proceed to wash my face as normal and continue with the rest of my routine.

For more on my routines check out this post featuring a few of my favorite natural hair care items.

Live abundantly,

Bethany