Last Updated: 18/08/2025

Cleansing is the first step in every skincare routine for a reason. Applying serum or moisturiser without washing your face first? Hopefully not, your pores would never forgive you.

If you only cleanse once, your skin might not be as clean as you think. Even the most effective cleansers can leave behind traces of makeup, sunscreen, oil, or dirt. This is where double cleansing comes in, a Korean beauty ritual that has become a skincare staple around the world.

So what is double cleansing, how do you do it, and when should you make it part of your routine? Let’s break it down.

What Is Double Cleansing and When Should You Do It?

Double cleansing means washing your face twice with two different cleansers, each with its own role.

Step 1: An oil-based cleanser to dissolve makeup, sunscreen, excess serum, and surface impurities.

Step 2: A water-based cleanser to remove sweat, dirt, and any residue left after the first cleanse, while addressing your skin’s specific needs.

Even if you are thorough with your first cleanse, oil-based products break down stubborn SPF and long-wear makeup that water-based cleansers alone may miss. The water-based cleanser then lifts remaining impurities and leaves your skin ready to absorb serums and moisturisers more effectively.

The benefits of double cleansing include cleaner pores, fewer breakouts, brighter skin, and a smoother, healthier-looking complexion. For most people, double cleansing at night is enough to remove a full day’s build-up. In the morning, a single gentle cleanse is usually sufficient.

How to Double Cleanse Without Over-Washing

The secret is using products that suit your skin type. Once you have the right formulas, the double cleansing method is simple.

Step 1: Oil-Based Cleanser

Massage into dry skin to break down makeup, sunscreen, and excess oil.

Try the Essential Fx Acyl-Glutathione Chia Cleansing Balm. It melts away even waterproof makeup while nourishing skin with chia, flax, and macadamia seed oils. Skin feels soft and conditioned, ready for the next cleanse.

Step 2: Water-Based Cleanser

Rinse, then follow with a gentle water-based cleanser.

The No Makeup Easy Rinse Makeup-Removing Cleanser works for all skin types, especially oily or combination. It removes any leftover debris without stripping natural oils. Formulated with firming DMAE and antioxidant-rich turmeric and olive leaf extracts, it soothes, smooths, and locks in hydration.

Step 3: Rinse and Pat Dry

Make sure all product is removed before continuing.

Step 4: Follow with Your Routine

Apply serum and moisturiser to replenish hydration and support skin health. Together these steps form the Nourishing Double Cleansing Duo, a targeted, barrier-safe routine that leaves skin fresh, soft, and ready for the rest of your skincare.

Should You Double Cleanse Every Day?

For most people, double cleansing every night is enough. In the morning, a single cleanse is usually sufficient unless your skin is very oily or you have applied rich overnight treatments. Over-cleansing can strip essential oils and disrupt the skin barrier, so balance is key.

Oily and combination skin types may benefit from daily double cleansing. If your skin is dry or sensitive, try it a few nights a week and adjust based on how your skin responds. Night is when your skin needs the deeper reset, while morning is for a gentle refresh.

The Bottom Line

What is a double cleanse? It is a targeted two-step approach that removes impurities more effectively than a single cleanse. Double cleansing is not about over-washing. It is about preparing your skin so the rest of your routine works harder for you.

Clean skin, happy skin.

Shop this article