September 2023

Back when I went to Esthetician School, we were taught that double cleansing was a fundamental step to any skincare routine. Now that I have been an esthetician and skincare coach for 16 years and have worked with a myriad of skin types and conditions, I understand that there is no one-fits-all solution to achieving successful results.

Personally, I am a minimalist skincare user and only incorporate the double cleanse technique when my skin is feeling particularly yucky or if the first cleanse didn’t remove my sunscreen or makeup. However, I believe in trying new techniques in an effort to achieve healthy glowing skin.

Cleansing is the cornerstone of healthy skin, and this two-step process just might be a game-changer for you. There’s so much untapped transformative power in double cleansing. So if you want to level up your cleansing game, here’s why it could become your new skincare mantra.

The Science Behind Double Cleansing

Before we explore the benefits, let’s understand the science. Our skin is exposed to various environmental pollutants, dirt, excess sebum, makeup, and sunscreen. These impurities can accumulate throughout the day, clogging our pores and leading to breakouts, dullness, and premature aging. Single cleansing may not be sufficient to remove these stubborn particles entirely, which is where double cleansing comes into play.

Step 1: Oil-Based Cleanser Double cleansing begins with an oil-based cleanser. Contrary to popular belief, using oil on your face is not counterproductive. Oil cleansers work on the principle of “like dissolves like.” The oil-based cleanser effectively breaks down and lifts away oil-based impurities, such as sunscreen, sebum, and makeup. It gently emulsifies upon contact with water, leaving no greasy residue.

Step 2: Water-Based Cleanser The second step involves using a water-based cleanser, such as a gel or foam cleanser, to remove any remaining impurities. This water-based cleanser eliminates water-based debris like sweat and environmental pollutants, giving your skin a thorough clean. It also helps to balance the skin’s pH and prepares it for optimal absorption of subsequent skincare products.

 

The Benefits of Double Cleansing

1. Deep Cleansing: Double cleansing ensures a deep, thorough cleanse, reaching deep into the pores to remove impurities that a single cleansing may leave behind. By eliminating congestion and buildup, you pave the way for healthier skin that is less prone to breakouts.
2. Enhances Skincare Efficacy: When your skin is properly cleansed, your serums, moisturizers, and treatments can penetrate effectively, maximizing their benefits. By removing barriers like excess sebum and dead skin cells, you allow your skincare products to work more efficiently, leading to better results.
3. Brightens Dull Complexion: Regular double cleansing can help restore radiance to a dull complexion. By removing the layer of dead skin cells and daily grime, your skin is free to reflect light better, resulting in a vibrant, glowing appearance.
4. Maintains Skin’s Moisture Balance: Contrary to harsh single cleansers that strip away natural oils, double cleansing maintains the skin’s moisture balance. The oil-based cleanser effectively removes impurities without compromising the skin’s protective barrier. The second cleanse with a gentle water-based cleanser ensures a fresh canvas without over-drying the skin.
5. Reduces Breakouts and Clogged Pores: Clogged pores can lead to unwanted breakouts and blemishes. Double cleansing helps prevent and reduce these issues by thoroughly removing the pore-clogging impurities, allowing your skin to breathe and heal.

 

---

Creating a system for your skin care routine helps you use the correct product while staying on budget – get your free copy!

 

---

Conclusion

As a skincare professional, I cannot stress enough the importance of having a skincare routine that works for your personal lifestyle and specific skin. Double cleansing can be a simple yet powerful technique that unlocks your skin’s true potential, leading to a healthier, more radiant complexion. By investing a few extra minutes each day, you lay the foundation for optimal skincare efficacy and embrace the true beauty of your skin. So, let the transformative power of double cleansing work its magic, and let your skin radiate with a newfound glow!

I would love to know if you have tried to incorporate this technique into your skincare routine and if it did or didn’t work for you. Let me know in the comments or feel free to DM me.

You can find me on Instagram at @mlskincareconsulting or melissa@melissalekus.com.