Everything we know about double cleansing and whether it's a necessary step to add to your skincare routine.
What is Double Cleansing?
The modern-day beauty and skincare industry is one that spans across many countries and cultures. And a culture that loves skincare almost as much as we do (if not more!) is the Korean beauty community and their infamous 10 step skincare routine. It is there where the double cleanse was born and since then, it has completely taken over the skincare scene here in North America.
Step 1 begins with an oil-based cleanser. This is meant to remove the surface layer of dirt on the skin while breaking down your makeup. Essentially, in place of a makeup remover, you are to work the oil into your skin (and eye area) until every ounce of makeup from your face has been eliminated. We've heard this could take a while to accomplish but necessary before moving on to the second cleanser.
Step 2 follows up your initial cleanse with a water-based face wash. This should be a deep cleanse of your skin, removing any sebum or lingering traces of oil from the first wash. Following a double cleanse, you should be left with your *cleanest* skin yet. But is this necessary?
Is It Beneficial to Your Skin or Could It Be Harmful?
So what exactly are the benefits of using two cleansers? Or in other words, why should you spend money on two separate face washes and add an extra 5 minutes to your regimen? Some experts swear by the double cleanse as it is said to better prepare your skin for the absorption of your fave serums and moisturizers. For those who live in larger cities, the double cleanse may be more efficient at removing surface grime from smog and environmental toxins. That being said, completely stripping your skin from all oil and bacteria (the good and the bad) can actually lead to other skin concerns like irritation, a weakened barrier and overall dryness. At this time, no evidence supports a double cleanse can slow down signs of ageing so it's ultimately just a squeaky clean.
Regardless of whether you participate in a double cleanse or not, using the appropriate cleanser for your skin type is crucial. If you *love* using your oil cleanser then you do you. However, not every person should dabble with oil-based cleansers and unfortunately, not every oil produces the same results. Take coconut oil, for example... Have you ever browsed through Pinterest only to see coconut oil used in practically every skin/ hair care DIY? Unfortunately, coconut oil is highly comedogenic which means it can clog your pores and promote acne and breakouts 🙅♀️ Dealing with hyper-reactive and sensitive skin? Skip on the oil cleanser. Although some oils are 'marketed' for sensitive skin, most can be further irritating and too much to handle.
While we love how the first step of a double cleanse breaks down every ounce of makeup, it's nothing a good makeup remove can't do. And for those of you who choose not to wear makeup on a daily bases, a double cleanse would be more harmful than good. A gentle cleanser that works for your skin type will be more beneficial for you than disrupting your pH levels with a double cleanse.
Here at Miracle 10, our Director of Operations swears by using Cleanser I twice whenever she needs to remove a full face of makeup. The first wash is to remove the majority of her makeup and the second wash is for the final deep cleanse. And it's so gentle that it won't overly strip the skin from its natural oils.
Have you tried a double cleanse before? Comment below to share with us your thoughts on this Korean skincare trend.