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Double Cleansing: The Two-Step Method Explained

This guide provides shopping guidance only—not medical, dermatology, diagnosis, or treatment advice. For health concerns, consult a licensed professional.

What Is Double Cleansing?

Double cleansing is exactly what it sounds like: washing your face twice, using two different types of cleansers. First, an oil-based cleanser to dissolve oil-based impurities (makeup, sunscreen, sebum), then a water-based cleanser to clean the skin itself.

This method became popular through Korean skincare (see our K-beauty routine guide) but is now widely used worldwide. The idea is simple: oil dissolves oil, so an oil-based cleanser removes things that water-based cleansers can't fully tackle.

Why Double Cleanse?

A single cleanser often isn't enough to remove everything—especially if you wear makeup or sunscreen (which you should daily). Here's why the two-step method works:

• Oil-based cleansers break down makeup, sunscreen, excess sebum, and oil-based impurities
• Water-based cleansers remove sweat, dirt, and water-based impurities, plus any residue from the first step
• Together, they provide a thorough cleanse without the need for harsh scrubbing

Who Should Double Cleanse?

Double cleansing is particularly beneficial if you:

• Wear makeup (especially waterproof or long-wear formulas)
• Use sunscreen daily (you should!—see our sunscreen guide)
• Have oily or acne-prone skin and want thorough pore cleansing
• Live in a polluted environment
• Notice your skincare products aren't absorbing well

You might not need to double cleanse if you don't wear makeup or sunscreen, have very dry or sensitive skin that's easily irritated, or prefer a minimal routine. Some people only double cleanse at night.

How to Double Cleanse

Step 1: Oil-Based Cleanser

1. Apply to dry skin—this is important! Oil cleansers work best on dry faces
2. Massage gently for 30-60 seconds, working the product over your entire face
3. Watch makeup dissolve—you'll see foundation, mascara, and sunscreen break down
4. Add water to emulsify—the product will turn milky
5. Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water

Step 2: Water-Based Cleanser

1. Apply to damp skin
2. Massage gently for 30-60 seconds
3. Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water
4. Pat dry with a clean towel

Your skin should feel clean but not tight, dry, or "squeaky." If it feels stripped, try gentler products.

First Cleansers: Oil-Based Options

Cleansing Oils

Pure oil-based cleansers that emulsify when you add water. Good for thorough makeup removal. Look for ones that rinse clean without residue.

Cleansing Balms

Solid at room temperature, they melt on contact with skin. Often feel more luxurious than oils. Great for massage and dissolving stubborn makeup.

Micellar Water

A gentler option that uses micelles (tiny oil molecules) to attract and lift impurities. Best for light makeup and sensitive skin. Doesn't require rinsing but can be followed by a water-based cleanser.

Second Cleansers: Water-Based Options

Gel Cleansers

Clear, gel-textured cleansers. Good for normal to oily skin. See our oily skin care guide.

Foam Cleansers

Pump out as foam or lather up from liquid. Can be more stripping, so look for gentle formulas if you have dry or sensitive skin.

Cream Cleansers

Milky, hydrating formulas. Best for dry or sensitive skin. See our sensitive skin guide.

Low-pH Cleansers

Formulated to match skin's natural pH (around 5.5). Gentler and less likely to disrupt the skin barrier.

Choosing Products by Skin Type

Oily/Acne-Prone Skin

• First cleanse: Lightweight cleansing oil or micellar water
• Second cleanse: Gel or gentle foam cleanser
• Look for non-comedogenic formulas

Dry Skin

• First cleanse: Rich cleansing balm or nourishing oil
• Second cleanse: Cream or hydrating gel cleanser
• Avoid anything too foaming

Sensitive Skin

• First cleanse: Gentle micellar water or fragrance-free balm
• Second cleanse: Minimal-ingredient cream cleanser
• See our fragrance-free skincare guide

Combination Skin

• First cleanse: Medium-weight cleansing oil
• Second cleanse: Gentle gel cleanser
• See our combination skin care guide

Common Mistakes

• Using oil cleanser on wet skin: Always start on dry skin
• Not emulsifying before rinsing: Add water to help the oil rinse clean
• Using harsh second cleansers: You don't need something strong—the oil did the heavy lifting
• Over-cleansing: Twice a day max, and you might only need to double cleanse at night
• Using water that's too hot: Lukewarm is best for your skin barrier

When to Skip Double Cleansing

You don't need to double cleanse every wash:

• In the morning: A single gentle cleanser or even just water is usually enough
• No-makeup days: If you didn't wear sunscreen or makeup, a single cleanse may suffice
• Skin feeling stripped: If your barrier is compromised (see our barrier repair guide), simplify

Where to Shop

Frequently Asked Questions