What is Double Cleansing & Why Your Skin Needs It

What is Double Cleansing?

Double cleansing is a two-step cleansing method that helps thoroughly remove oil-based and water-based impurities from your skin. It involves:

1. First Step (Oil-Based Cleanser): Removes makeup, sunscreen, sebum, and pollutants.

2. Second Step (Water-Based Cleanser): Washes away sweat, dirt, and leftover residue.

This skincare technique originated in Korean and Japanese beauty routines and is now widely recommended by dermatologists for all skin types—even if you don’t wear makeup!

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How to Do Double Cleansing (Step-by-Step Guide)

Step 1: Use an Oil-Based Cleanser

• Take a small amount of an oil-based cleanser or cleansing balm.

• Massage it onto dry skin (do not use water before this) in circular motions for about 30–60 seconds.

• Focus on areas prone to buildup, like the T-zone and around the nose.

• Rinse with lukewarm water (most oil cleansers emulsify when mixed with water).
  

Step 2: Follow with a Water-Based Cleanser

• Apply a gentle foaming or gel cleanser to damp skin. (Foaming cleanser is better for nighttime as it helps get rid of oil from the previous step while a gel cleanser is better for day as it doesn't strip your natural oil. )

• Massage for another 30 seconds to remove any remaining residue.

• Rinse thoroughly and pat dry.
  

🔹 Pro Tip: If you’re using micellar water instead of an oil cleanser, soak a cotton pad and gently wipe your face before moving to Step 2. However, micellar water doesn’t deep-clean pores like oil-based cleansers.

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Why Should You Double Cleanse?

If you’ve been struggling with acne, blackheads, or dullness, double cleansing might be the missing step in your routine.

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Double Cleansing for Different Skin Types

➟ Double Cleansing for Oily Skin:

• Helps control excess sebum without over-drying.

• Best oil cleansers: Grapeseed oil, jojoba oil, or lightweight oil-based cleansers.

• Follow up with a gel-based or salicylic acid cleanser.

  
  

➟ Double Cleansing for Dry Skin:

• Prevents dehydration by removing impurities without disrupting moisture levels.

• Best oil cleansers: Squalene, camellia oil, or shea butter-infused cleansing balms.

• Follow with a hydrating cleanser (cream or milk-based).

  
  

➟ Double Cleansing for Sensitive Skin:

• Reduces irritation by gently lifting impurities.

• Best oil cleansers: Fragrance-free, lightweight oils like sunflower or oat oil.

• Follow with a low-pH, non-foaming cleanser.

  
  

➟ Double Cleansing for Clogged Pores:

• Breaks down blackhead-causing buildup & clears congestion.

• Best oil cleansers: Cleansing oils with linoleic acid (hemp seed, rosehip).

• Follow with an exfoliating water-based cleanser (BHAs like salicylic acid).

  
  

Oil-Based Cleansers vs. Micellar Water – What’s the Difference?

Feature	Oil-Based Cleanser	Micellar Water
How it works	Dissolves oil-based impurities (makeup, sunscreen, excess sebum)	Uses tiny micelles to lift dirt from the skin's surface
Best for	Deep cleansing & breaking down waterproof products	Quick cleansing or light makeup removal
Removes waterproof makeup & sunscreen?	✅ Yes, very effectively	❌ No, not as effectively
Needs rinsing?	✅ Yes, must be rinsed off with water	❌ No, but should be followed by a cleanser
Deep cleans pores?	✅ Yes, pulls out impurities from deep within pores	❌ No, mainly works on the skin’s surface
Suitable for double cleansing?	✅ Yes, perfect as a first-step cleanser	⚠️ Can be used, but not as effective as an oil cleanser
Recommended for sensitive skin?	✅ Yes, if using a gentle formula	✅ Yes, as long as it's alcohol-free
Leaves a residue?	❌ No, emulsifies with water for easy removal	✅ Sometimes, especially if not rinsed off

👉 Verdict: If you wear sunscreen or makeup, a proper oil-based cleanser is a better choice for double cleansing. Micellar water is great for quick fixes but doesn’t remove impurities as deeply.

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Can I Use Baby Oil Instead of an Oil Cleanser?

Not recommended. While baby oil can dissolve makeup and sunscreen, it doesn’t contain emulsifiers, which means it won’t rinse off cleanly. This can leave a greasy film on your skin and cause clogged pores and breakouts.

➟ Better Alternatives:

• Jojoba oil – Closest to your skin’s natural sebum.

• Grapeseed oil – Lightweight and great for acne-prone skin.

• Cleansing balms or oil cleansers – Formulated to remove all impurities without residue

But let me tell you something, if investing in a good cleansing balm or oil is not something of your budget at the moment, HAIL BABY OIL! Something is better than nothing. It does the job after all + if you follow it up with a good foaming cleanser (not gel one), it will help you take off the oil residue really well.

Best Double Cleansing Products for Every Budget

If you are looking for Indian Products :

Plum E-Luminence Cleansing Balm Earth Rhythm Deep Pore Oil Cleanser

Quench Dirt Dissolving Daily Cleansing Balm

If you are looking for International Products :

DHC Deep Cleansing Oil CLINIQUE Take The Day Off Cleansing Balm CeraVe Makeup Removing Cleanser Balm

Final Thoughts: Is Double Cleansing Worth It?

If you want clearer, healthier skin, double cleansing is a must. It’s a simple yet highly effective way to remove buildup, prevent breakouts, and enhance your skincare routine.

💬 Have questions? Drop them in the comments! Let’s get your skincare routine on point. 😊