Cleansing is arguably the single most important step in your skin care routine. It’s something you do without a second thought (well, you should be doing it instinctively, but we can forgive you for crawling into bed after one-to-many G&T’s this time around). But what about doing it twice? Hailing from Korean skin care rituals, double cleansing has been making a steady mark in our regimes. But what exactly is it and how often should you be double cleansing?
Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered… We’re here to dispel the myths and give you the ultimate double cleansing routine to boost a complexion that’s clean, calm and collected. P.s. If cleansing as a concept is something you slightly confused about, we have an ultimate guide to you can read here, before you jump into double cleansing…
WHAT IS DOUBLE CLEANSING
Doing exactly what it says on the tin, double cleansing is essentially cleansing the skin… twice. A traditional double cleansing routine starts with a cleansing oil to remove whatever is on the complexion – think make up, SPF, dirt and buildup. Then it utilises a water-based formula that ensures neither your skin barrier nor levels of hydration are compromised – along with guaranteeing your complexion is thoroughly clean.
HOW OFTEN SHOULD YOU DOUBLE CLEANSE
Every. Single. Night. Even if you haven’t left the house and haven’t worn any make up. As an effective way to wash and prep your skin, a double cleaning routine not only removes daily dirt, grime and sunscreen, but the second water-based cleanse ensures your face is prepped and primed to allow for better absorption of your topical products – we’re talking your powerful retinols, hydrating hyalruonic acids and exfoliating AHA’s and BHA’s.
WHAT IS THE BEST ROUTINE FOR DOUBLE CLEANSING
STEP ONE: CLEANSING OILS
Cleansing oil is the first step to your routine. Making quick work of eliminating dirt, oil-based cleansers work because oil attracts oil. Most moisturisers, make up and sunscreens are infused with lipids, so your oil-based cleanser will effectively break these down without compromising your complexion. However, there are a few things to consider when picking your preferred product. If you have more of an oily skin type, it’s best to avoid comedogenic oils like coconut. Instead stick to blends powered by rosehip, grapeseed and jojoba. For those with dry skin we suggest choosing a heavier, thicker cleanser infused with hydrating oils like shea as they won’t disrupt your moisture barrier or leave your complexion feeling tight. And finally, those with sensitive skin should avoid formulas with fragrance and essential oils as they are known to cause unwanted irritation.
Now you know what oil cleansers do, it’s time to get to grips with how to use them…
Start by pouring out a dollop of your chosen formula (about the size of a 10p piece) and massage it into your hands, before rubbing the product in circular motions over your face. Remember, if you’ve used SPF and make up on your neck don’t forget to take the oil cleanser down there too. Once massaged, damp your hands and emulsify the product before rinsing it off. If you’re being extra careful with your skin, you could use a gentle face cloth to wipe the product away too.