What Is Double Cleansing And Why Do I Need To Do It?

What is double cleansing and why do I need to double-cleanse?

Double cleansing is an integral part of the Korean skincare and is the first and second step of the renowned 10 Step Korean Skincare Routine.

The double cleansing method involves cleansing your face in two steps: the first step is an oil-based cleanser and the second a water-based cleanser. The first step entails an oil-based cleanser which can come in the form of a cleansing balm, like the Heimish All Clean Balm, or a cleansing oil such as the Beauty of Joseon Ginseng Cleansing Oil. 

The second step is using a water-based cleanser like a gel cleanser or foam cleanser, an example would be k-beauty’s cult classic – COSRX Low pH Good Morning Gel Cleanser.

Why do I need to double cleanse and what are the benefits of double cleansing?

An oil-cleanser works to gently draw out oil-based impurities/debris such as makeup, sebum, SPF and other pollutants. Oil-based cleansers are needed to thoroughly and properly cleanse the skin as water-based cleansers are not able to remove oil-based impurities as oil and water do not mix.

How to use an oil cleanser: Scoop or pump the cleanser and gently massage it onto your face in circular motions. Add water to your face and continue to massage in circular motions to emulsify the product and you’ll notice it turn milky ( this means you’re doing it right). Lastly, rinse off with lukewarm water.

Water-based cleansers work to remove water-based impurities such as sweat, dirt and any residue left from the oil-cleanse.

How to use a water cleanser:

After washing off the oil-cleanser, follow with the water-based cleanser. Add the gel cleanser to the face or the foam cleanser and work up a lather then apply to the face in again gently massaging in circular motions. Finish by rinsing off with lukewarm water.

So, to clarify, double cleansing is not washing your face twice with the same cleanser rather using two different cleansers to thoroughly and deeply wash the skin. 

Do you double-cleanse? What is your cleansing routine like? Share your thoughts below, we’d love to hear them!