When it comes to skin care, we want our regimens to be effective, but we also want them to be as streamlined as possible. Even the biggest beauty junkie would choose a few extra minutes of precious sleep over slapping on another product. So, we don’t blame you if the thought of doubling up on facial cleansers leaves you groaning. But trust us, the extra step really is worth it. Promise.
What Is Double Cleansing?
Like the name implies, double cleansing literally involves cleansing skin twice. The first cleanse is done with an oil-based cleanser, while the second one is typically done with a foaming cleanser. The multistep regimen is common practice in Korea and Japan where the belief is that multiple layers (skin care, makeup, BB cream, SPF, etc.) are needed to create a daytime look. Therefore, more than one step is required at night to effectively remove everything, explains Christine Chang and Sarah Lee, co-founders of K-beauty site Glow Recipe.
Even the best face cleanser can’t compete with a double cleanse, which cleanses on all fronts. An oil cleanser dissolves oil-based makeup products, sweat and sunscreen, while the foaming cleanser banishes residual oils and grime, leaving skin clean and hydrated, says Chang and Lee. This is why double cleansing is usually part of the evening skin care routine so it can remove the day’s buildup.
The experts agree that two cleansers are better than one for keeping all skin types balanced. Rachel Winard, founder of Soapwalla, says that it’s especially good for those who have oily skin or wear a lot of makeup since the oil-based cleanser removes stubborn makeup and excess oil. Then the foam cleanser removes any residual oils.
How to Double Cleanse
To get the most out of double cleansing, it’s important to choose the right products, so skin doesn’t become dry or reactive. Consider whether the oil-based cleanser contains mineral oils and how well it emulsifies in water. (That’s scientific lingo for turns milky when activated with water and washes away without leaving any residue.) For the foaming cleanser, Chang and Lee recommend searching for a pH-balanced, SLS-free version. Scroll through the gallery to see the best oil- and foam-based facial washes to combine for a double cleanse.
Double Act: This Is Why Double Cleansing Is Actually Worth It
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Oil-Based Cleanser
When they call this a lightweight oil, they aren't kidding. It never feels greasy when it's applied, lathered or washed away. Try it wet or dry, either way, it'll result in dewy, moisturized skin.
Shiseido Perfect Cleansing Oil, $32 at Sephora
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Oil-Based Cleanser
Foodies have reached peak coconut oil, but it's still a beneficial addition to skin care, especially when combined with argan oil. The blend of natural moisturizers hydrates skin while removing dirt and makeup. Rinse the oil away, then follow with a foaming cleanser.
Burt's Bees Facial Cleansing Oil With Coconut & Argan Oil, $15.99 at Target
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Oil-Based Cleanser
Apply a couple pumps of the camellia oil-based cleanser to skin. It's tough enough to remove BB creams and sunscreen, but gentle enough that it can be used on the eyes to dislodge waterproof mascara. Once makeup has been removed, add water to emulsify the oil and wash dirt away.
Blossom Jeju Camellia Soombi Cleansing Oil, $39 at Glow Recipe
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Oil-Based Cleanser
Get over those preconceived ideas that an oil-based cleanser will make skin feel greasy. This effective cleanser has water-soluble oils that take off tough makeup. Yes, including waterproof mascara. This cleansing oil is actually specifically formulated to remove long-lasting BB creams, hence its name.
Missha M Perfect BB Deep Cleansing Oil, $27 at Missha
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Oil-Based Cleanser
What they probably failed to mention in science class is that emulsifying makes a great cleanser. This oil emulsifies on contact with water — turns into a milky substance — and washes away clear. There's no dirt, makeup or greasy residue left behind. This virgin coconut oil formula also helps soothe skin and minimize the appearance of pores.
Laneige Perfect Pore Cleansing Oil, $36 at Sephora
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Foam-Based Cleanser
How many cleansers have actual fermented cranberries in them? The antioxidant-rich fruit helps keep fine lines and wrinkles at bay. Follow an oil-based cleanser with this one to remove dirt and sweat from skin.
Neogen Cranberry Real Fresh Foam Cleanser, $19 at Soko Glam
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Foam-Based Cleanser
The wrong foaming cleanser can leave skin feeling dry and tight. This nonstripping formula actually moisturizes skin while it removes dirt and impurities. Use it and find out why Sulwhasoo is a favorite K-beauty brand.
Sulwhasoo Gentle Cleansing Foam, $36 at Nordstrom
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Foam-Based Cleanser
A rich foam doesn't make a foaming cleanser. It's the way the water-based cleanser cuts through dirt and grime without irritating skin. This dermatologist-tested formula is as gentle as a cleansing milk, but froths up like the foamiest bubble mask. Skin feels soothed and nourished after using the gentle product.
Clarins Gentle Foaming Cleanser With Cottonseed, $26 at Ulta
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Foam-Based Cleanser
A dime-sized amount of this SLS-free cleanser will take off all of the day's dirt. The formula uses a natural distillation process to preserve the potency of the botanical ingredients. And here we thought fermentation was just for food.
Whamisa Organic Flowers Creamy Foam Cleanser, $35 at Glow Recipe
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Foam-Based Cleanser
Activated charcoal isn't just for masks. This charcoal cleanser produces a frothy foam as it deep cleans, without any harsh ingredients. What the sulfate-free formula does have is a mood-lifting lemon-rose aroma that aids in de-stressing after a long day.
Fig + Yarrow Palmarosa Charcoal Cleanser, $19.99 at Target
