What Is Double Cleansing? An Expert Explains

Everyone knows the importance of washing your face at night, or at least everyone should know. What people are not as clear about is whether they are doing it in the most efficient way. That’s where double cleansing comes in.

If you’re wondering, what is double cleansing? It’s exactly what you think: cleansing your face twice in the evening. If you wear makeup, you definitely should be doing it. It’s a simple and effective way to keep your skin in great condition, no matter your individual skin type. We decided to ask pro makeup artist why it should be the basis of every makeup-wearer’s beauty regimen. Keep reading for more information on the double-cleansing method.

Experts Featured in This Article

Amanda Bell is a professional makeup artist based in the UK.

What Is Double Cleansing?

Double cleansing isn’t using two face wipes instead of just one — it involves using an oil-based cleanser paired with a regular face wash to remove dirt, waterproof products (like sunscreen), and makeup. “Double cleansing ensures that all last vestiges of makeup and sunscreen are removed,” makeup artist Amanda Bell tells PS. This way, the skin is completely clear from makeup residue, and the second cleanse leaves the skin “soft and hydrated, keeping skin healthy and clear.” Poorly-removed makeup is one of the main culprits of blocked pores and, subsequently, breakouts. With double cleansing, you can be sure that you’ve removed everything.

The reason you want to use a cleansing oil or balm is because “oil works like a magnet, effectively lifting dirt and pigment from the skin, so that skin is actually cleaner and fresher after using an oil cleanser as the first step,” Bell says.

How to Double Cleanse

Double cleaning consists of first using an oil-based, sudser cleanser on dry skin, massaging it onto the face to lift off any makeup. It’s then rinsed off with water and followed by a cream-based cleanser to ensure everything has been thoroughly removed and to aid hydration. This process is done at night when you have been wearing makeup all day. One cleanse followed by moisturizer and SPF is enough for your morning routine.

The Benefits of Double Cleansing

While you think this might only work for dry or normal skin types, that’s not the case. In fact, those with oily skin should not fear that this will clog their pores since the cleansing oil is being washed off, lifting all the grime as it goes. You’ll find they are actually doing the opposite of pore clogging. “The second element of the cleanse should be the treatment part, this is the cleanser that can improve the texture and treat the skin further,” she says. This is where you can use a cleanser to meet your specific skin type to improve its texture.

Afterward, “it leaves skin superbly soft and also hydrated,” Bell says, adding that the extra moisture means you will likely need less serum and moisturizer because cleansing has done a good job beforehand. Prepped and clean skin provides the perfect base for serums and moisturizers to absorb better.

Doing a night-time double cleanse not only removes makeup and refreshes the face after a long day but also prepares the skin for the next day of makeup application. “With nightly double cleansing, the skin is kept clean, and the texture improves; it can potentially improve the clarity and hydration of the skin, which means that essentially you need less foundation or base, as skin is fresh and flawless,” she says. Foundation always sits better when the skin is hydrated and has been well prepped.

Best Double Cleansing Products

You can use any oil-based and cream-based cleansers you like, but Bell recommends the Pixi + Caroline Hirons Double Cleanse ($24), which contains the two steps in one tub and is perfect for newbies. “It has been created for all skin types, even the most sensitive,” she says. “Both cleansers work perfectly together, so it takes the guesswork out of the equation; you know that both cleansers work in complete synergy with each other. Leaving skin immaculately clean but perfectly prepped.”

Other editor favorites include the Renée Rouleau Better Than Balm Dual Cleanser ($46), which is a dual-phase formula that doesn’t feel thick on the skin or leave an oily residue behind, and the Sulwhasoo Gentle Cleansing Oil Makeup Remover ($40), a lightweight gel-oil that’s safe for sensitive skin.

Tori Crowther is a freelance beauty journalist and former PS UK editor.

Jessica Harrington is the senior beauty editor at PS, where she writes about hair, makeup, skin care, piercings, tattoos, and more. As a New York City-based writer and editor with a degree in journalism and over eight years of industry experience, she loves to interview industry experts, keep up with the latest trends, and test new products.