Do you really need to double cleanse?

01 / The method

What double cleansing actually is.

Double cleansing is washing your face twice in one session, with two different products. A Cleveland Clinic dermatologist defines it as cleansing first with an oil-based product, then with a water-based cleanser.[1]

The reasoning is that the two products remove different things. Oil-based cleansers help lift oil-based residue such as make-up, sunscreen and sebum. Water-based cleansers remove water-soluble residue such as sweat and dirt.[1]

It is an evening practice. Nothing about it applies to the morning, and it is separate from the question of what changes between morning and evening skincare.

02 / Who may benefit

When a second cleanse earns its place.

According to the same dermatologist, double cleansing can be helpful for people who wear make-up, especially waterproof make-up or waterproof sunscreen. It may also be useful as a first step for some people with oily skin, to remove excess sebum.[1]

In practice, a second cleanse is worth considering if:

• You wear long-wear or waterproof make-up most days.
• You use a water-resistant sunscreen and notice it is still there after washing.
• A single cleanse leaves a film you can feel or see on a cotton pad.

The American Academy of Dermatology is firm about the underlying goal: remove your make-up before bed, with no exceptions, because even non-comedogenic make-up can cause acne if you sleep in it.[3] Double cleansing is one way of achieving that, among several. See how to remove long-wear make-up without over-cleansing.

03 / Who can skip it

When one cleanse is enough.

The Cleveland Clinic’s summary is that double cleansing is usually not necessary. For most people, washing once thoroughly with a gentle cleanser is more than adequate, and dermatologists worry more about over-washing than about adding a double cleansing routine.[1]

If you do not wear make-up, the same source suggests it may not be the routine for you.[1]

The risk on the other side is real. Over-washing can lead to dryness, irritation and a breakdown of the skin barrier, which can in turn contribute to breakouts and eczema.[1] The AAD advises limiting face washing to twice a day and after sweating.[2][4]

04 / A middle route

Micellar water as an alternative.

There is an option between one cleanse and two full ones. The Cleveland Clinic dermatologist suggests using micellar water to remove make-up before a water-based cleanser as an alternative to double cleansing.[1]

That keeps the removal step and avoids a second wash with a full cleanser. Whether to rinse afterwards is covered in micellar water: when it helps and whether to rinse.

05 / If you try it

How to double cleanse without overdoing it.

If a second cleanse suits your situation, technique matters more than product count.

1. Begin with the oil-based cleanser.

   Apply it with your hands and massage gently to loosen make-up, sebum and sunscreen. Rinse with lukewarm water; water that is too hot can dry the skin.[1]

2. Follow with a water-based cleanser.

   Keep the skin damp, apply the second cleanser and massage gently. Rinse and pat dry with a soft towel.[1]

3. Use your fingertips.

   The AAD advises applying cleanser with your fingertips, since a washcloth, mesh sponge or anything else can irritate the skin, and resisting the urge to scrub.[2] See cleansing brushes and cloths: are they necessary?

4. Moisturise afterwards.

   Two cleanses remove more than one. Follow with moisturiser while the skin is still slightly damp.

Product choice depends on your skin. The Cleveland Clinic advises avoiding cleansers that are harsh, excessively drying or fragranced, and notes that for acne-prone skin an oil-based cleanser can cause breakouts, especially if used alone. For dry, sensitive skin it suggests a gentle, unscented water-based cleanser, and notes that cream cleansers are less drying than foaming ones.[1]

For the formats themselves, see gel, cream or balm cleanser: how to choose and cleansing oil vs cleansing balm. Other practical questions have their own guides: washing your face in the shower and skincare with a beard.

06 / Reading the result

Signs you are cleansing too much.

Your skin will tell you if two cleanses are more than it wants.

Tightness

Skin that feels tight or squeaky after washing. See why skin feels tight after cleansing.

Stinging

Products that were comfortable begin to sting after you cleanse.

Dry patches

Flaking around the nose, mouth or cheeks.

New breakouts

The Cleveland Clinic notes that the irritation caused by over-washing can contribute to breakouts.[1]

If any of these appear, return to a single gentle cleanse and review the product. The guide to a cleanser that is too harsh lists what to look for.

A few common questions

Frequently asked questions.