What is Double Cleansing

Double cleansing seems to be all the hype in social media in regards to the new korean skincare trend. 

Although, in my opinion, this isn’t just a trend and there is benefit to double cleansing.

What exactly is it?

Basically you cleanse your skin twice, first with an oil based cleanser, and then with a water based cleanser. Sounds technical, but most cleansers are water based, meaning that the first ingredient you see on the ingredient list is water. The higher up on the ingredient list, the more concentrated within the product. Micellar water (hence water is in the name) first ingredient will be water although it is considered the oil based cleanser.

You can use a cotton pad if you’re using micellar water, although I use all oil based cleansers as a cleanser, working in circular motions with my hands. If it’s micellar water I don’t rinse before coming in with the water based cleanser. If the first cleanser is more of a balm or oil I do rise before cleansing the face with the water based cleanser. 

Double Cleansing Benefits

In case you weren’t aware, facial wipes are a no-no.

Facial wipes are terrible for the environment because they are being irresponsibly flushed down the toilet causing sewage backup and spilling into oceans. Not only are they terrible for the environment, they contain ingredients that are irritating to the skin and disrupt the skin’s acid mantle (protective barrier). The cloth used in most wipes are abrasive and can be compared to using a mechanical exfoliator as well. 

Skip the face wipes and opt for a micellar water or oil based cleanser. By using an oil based cleanser first, you are breaking up and dissolving makeup, oils, and impurities collected throughout the day. This will allow your water based cleanser to cleanse the skin tailored to it’s needs such as hydration or exfoliation. 

Double Cleansing with Micellar Water

Micellar water has recently become a skincare favorite amongst dermatologists and skincare gurus. It feels just like water although it consists of purified water, humectants, and surfactants. Basically, what that means is it’s an oil free solution that will break down oils and dirt while being super gentle on the skin. Glycerin, a humectant, is derived from plants or animals and pulls water from deeper skin layers and the environment when used in skincare products. Surfactants break down oils and fats on top of the skin. 

Micellar water boasts to emulsify makeup and oils of the skin prior to cleansing with a water based product. The glycerin serves as a hydrating component to avoid dryness. When I cleanse with micellar water I will apply with my hands as a face wash or use reusable pads to apply the product to the face. Then rinse with water if you prefer, or go right in with your water based cleanser to cleanse the skin of emulsified makeup and debris. 

My current favorite micellar water is Bioderma

Double Cleansing Products

If you feel as micellar water is not sufficient for the first step in double cleansing, a few of my favorite oil based cleansers are as follows:

One Love Organics Vitamin B Enzyme Cleansing Oil + Makeup Remover

Ideal for dry, dehydrated skin types. Contains vitamin E and antioxidants. As it is worked into the skin it turns into a milky lather which emulsifies makeup and oils. No rinse needed before cleansing with a water based cleanser. Can also be used with a COTTON ROUND to remove makeup. 

Farmacy Green Clean Makeup Removing Cleansing Balm

Indicated for all skin types. Contains essential oils that transform into a milky lather when worked into the skin. Zero residue left once rinsed. Vegan, cruelty-free, gluten-free, and recyclable packaging.