Double Cleansing, an Asian Beauty Secret You Need to Know About!

What is Double Cleansing?

Double cleansing is a face cleansing method that originates from Asia and dates as far back as the fourteenth century! More recently, Korean beauty bloggers and influencers have drawn attention to this traditional cleansing practice, and have increased its popularity.

So what exactly is double cleansing??

Double cleansing is a two-step process that involves first using an oil-based cleanser to remove oily make-up & excess sebum, and secondly, using a water-based face wash to remove any remaining dirt, bacteria, & dead skin cells.

Benefits of Double Cleansing

Because oil dissolves oil, it makes sense to use an oil-based cleanser to remove oily makeup and to pull excess sebum from your pores. Once those oily substances are trapped in the oil-based cleanser, you can easily rinse them away with water.

The water-based face wash then follows, since it is effective at removing any remaining impurities that reside on the surface of your skin.

In combination, these two steps deliver a deep pore cleanse and a clear complexion! Double cleansing also helps prevent clogged pores and allows your face creams and serums to absorb better and penetrate deeply so they can perform their best!

When To Double Cleanse

Double cleansing is best done at night. That’s when you want to ensure all your makeup comes off your face. It’s also the time of day when you are applying products like night repair cream, serums, & retinols, which must penetrate deep into your pores for them to work their magic!

Is Double Cleansing for You?

If you have oily skin or acne prone skin, then definitely YES! Double cleansing is great at drawing out excess oil. Excess oil is oftentimes the culprit of clogged pores which can lead to acne, so it’s important you double cleanse if your skin is prone to breakouts.

If you wear heavy makeup, sunscreen, or live in the city where your skin is exposed to many environmental pollutants, then YES, you should double cleanse.

Double cleansing is also safe for sensitive skin types. Just be sure to use gentle cleansers that are free from harsh chemicals (such as sulfates) to prevent your skin from becoming irritated.

How Do You Double Cleanse?

The Double Cleanse Basic Skincare Routine

1. Step 1 – Cleanse
   Use an oil-based cleanser (or cleansing oil) to remove any makeup. Concentrate on your T-zone to ensure you remove any excess sebum. Rinse well.
   A treasured secret among the Japanese geishas was the use camellia oil to remove their heavy, white, paint-like makeup.
2. Step 2 – Wash
   Use a water-based face wash to remove any remaining dirt, bacteria, & dead skin cells. Rinse well.
3. Step 3 – Tone
   Use an alcohol-free toner. Apply toner using a cotton ball and dab gently on your skin. Allow your skin to dry.
4. Step 4 – Moisturize
   Use either your day cream or night cream depending on the time of day. Apply using your ring finger in a light circular motion until completely absorbed.