Double Cleansing: Should You Be Doing It?
What is "double cleansing" and why is everyone doing it? Double cleansing is face washing twice: first with a balm or oil cleanser to remove sunscreen, makeup or other oil-based products, then a second time with a milky, foaming or cream cleanser to cleanse deeper into the skin.
What is double cleansing?
Double cleansing usually involves washing your face twice in the evening using two cleansing steps.
The first is intended to loosen makeup, sunscreen and surface oils using a face cleansing oil or balm. The second then cleanses the remaining skin surface to remove the residual dirt and oils.
Oils or balms need water to emulsify when rinsing off.
Who may benefit from double cleansing?
You may find it useful if you:
- Wear heavier or long-wear makeup
- Apply water-resistant sunscreen
- Find that your usual cleanser leaves product residue behind
- Prefer an initial makeup-removal step followed by a gentle cleanser
If your normal cleanser removes your daily products effectively and your skin feels comfortable afterwards, one cleanse may be enough.
Single cleansing vs double cleansing
| Single cleanse | Double cleanse | |
|---|---|---|
| Best suited to | Light product use or uncomplicated routines | Heavier makeup, sunscreen or long-wear products |
| Number of steps | One | Two |
| Main advantage | Simple and efficient | May improve removal of persistent product residue |
| Potential downside | May not remove very resistant products completely | Can contribute to dryness or irritation if cleansers are too harsh |
| Sensitive skin | Often easier to keep gentle | Should be approached cautiously and adjusted if irritation develops |
Can you cleanse too much?
While some people may think that cleansing skin until it feels squeaky or tight is ideal, this can actually be a sign of over-cleansing — stripping the skin of protective moisture, leading to an imbalance of oil production, and oilier, more irritated skin.
What about professional deep cleansing?
For people experiencing congestion or surface build-up, professional facial cleansing may sometimes complement a suitable home routine.
Zhen currently offers the Murad Aqua Peel Deep Cleanse Facial, which includes cleansing, aqua-based exfoliation, extractions and finishing skincare, and is positioned towards oily, combination and congested skin.
Not sure what your routine needs?
Book a Zhen consultation to talk through your current cleansing routine and whether a professional facial could help.
Book a ConsultationFrequently asked questions
Should everyone double cleanse at night?
Not necessarily. If you don't see visible congestion, and a clean towel after first cleansing comes out clean, you may not need a double cleanse. The suggested frequency depends on the individual, and some may only need to double cleanse about twice a week, or every other day.
Can double cleansing cause dry skin?
People with dry skin should only double cleanse when needed — aim for just twice a week, or as advised by a skin or health professional.
Can a facial replace double cleansing?
No. Professional facials and at-home cleansing serve different purposes.