Updated June 19, 2025 by Elisa Branda
Have you ever wondered if you are really cleansing your skin thoroughly or if some residue of makeup, sebum or smog is still there, ready to clog your pores and cause impurities? I asked myself this for a long time, especially on those evenings when, despite removing my makeup, I still found traces of foundation on the pillow or on the cotton pad. Then I discovered the double cleansing: a method, derived from Korean skincare, that has transformed my routine and my way of conceiving facial cleansing. And I must say, it has really changed my skin.
In this article I speak to you in a direct and personal tone: I want the double cleansing becomes clear to you too. We will see what it is exactly, what the benefits are, how to choose the products (oil and foaming cleanser, but not only), and how to adapt this technique to the specific needs of each skin type, even the most delicate. If you are interested in having a cleaner, brighter face that is more receptive to subsequent treatments (such as serum and cream), then double cleansing could turn out to be the winning move you didn't expect. Ready to immerse yourself in a "smart" and at the same time effective skincare approach? Let's get started!
Why Double Cleansing is a Fundamental Step
The Purpose of Two-Step Cleansing
The so-called "double cleansing” (in English) is nothing more than a two-step facial cleansing. Often traditional cleansing is not enough to remove the residue more stubborn, such as waterproof makeup, sunscreens, urban smog and excess sebum. This is where double cleansing comes in:
- First Step: A cleaner oil-based (oil, balm, milk) that dissolves makeup, sunscreens and lipid impurities.
- Second Step: a water-based cleanser (foam, gel, mousse) that removes water-soluble residues and deeply refreshes the skin.
The idea is to exploit the principle of “like dissolves like”: the oil breaks down the grease, while the foaming formula eliminates dirt and oil residue, leaving the skin clean more effectively than a single swipe of cleanser.
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The Main Benefits
- Deep but delicate cleaning: Avoid rubbing your skin hard or using harsh cleansers. Oil makes it easier to remove, reducing rubbing.
- Clear Pores, Fewer Imperfections: If the pores are not clogged by makeup residues or smog, the risk of comedones or blackheads is reduced.
- Promotes the Absorption of Other Products: Skin without residues absorbs the active ingredients of serums and creams better.
- Suitable for all skin types: Contrary to popular belief, even those with oily skin can benefit from a cleansing oil, as long as they choose the right product.
- Glowing skin effect Glass Skin: cleaner skin is consequently also brighter and more compact.
Origins and Diffusion: From K-Beauty to the Global Market
The Korean Tradition
Double cleansing has roots in korean skincare, where facial care is considered a true ritual. For Korean women (and men), “cleansing” the face is not just an act of removing dirt, but the foundation on which everything else in the routine is built. In Korea, it is not uncommon to use 10 different skincare steps, but double cleansing is often considered the “holy grail” of cleansing: a must, especially if you use high sunscreens and BB creams on a daily basis.
The Explosion in the West
In recent years, the West has enthusiastically embraced the K-Beauty philosophy, and double cleansing has quickly become a hugely popular trend. On social media, online stores, and in both high-end and low-cost brand lines, you can find cleansing oil (cleansing oils) to cleansing balm (balms) specifically designed for this technique. The idea of a double step seems logical even to those who are not skincare enthusiasts: the skin is purer, brighter, ready to “breathe.” It is no wonder that double cleansing is now considered a pillar not only for problematic or impure skin, but for everyone, as a tool for a fresh and radiant face.
Step 1: Oil-Based Cleansing
How Does It Work and Why Oil?
The first phase of the double cleansing uses a cleansing oil or cleansing balm. The reason is simple: many stubborn substances (sebum, waterproof makeup, sunscreens, pollution) bind better to oily components. It is as if the oil acts as a “magnet” for makeup and greasy dirt, gently detaching them from the skin. This way you do not need to scrub vigorously with foaming cleansers and, at the same time, you preserve the hydrolipidic film.
What Types of Cleansing Oils Are There?
- Pure Cleansing Oil: A blend of vegetable oils (almond, jojoba, argan) with emulsifiers which, upon contact with water, transforms into a light, rinseable milk.
- Cleansing Balm: A solid or waxy form that, with the heat of the hands, melts into an oil, excellent for those who prefer a less liquid and easier to dose product.
- Make-up Removing Butter: Similar to balm, but with an even richer texture, often enriched with butters (shea, cocoa). Ideal for dry skin.
How to Use It
Apply a small amount of product to dry hands, then massage your face (always dry) with circular movements, insisting on areas such as eyes (if you have heavy makeup) and forehead. At a certain point, the makeup will begin to melt. Add a little warm water to emulsify (The product becomes whitish and slightly milky.) Finally, rinse thoroughly. Many cleansing oils rinse off easily without leaving any residue.
Step 2: Water-Based Cleansing
Why a Second Step Is Needed
After the oil, lipid traces or any water-soluble impurities that have not been eliminated may remain on the skin. Here is the the heart of double cleansing: a foaming cleanser or gel/cream which finishes the job, cleaning “deep down,” removing what’s left after the oil. This step primes the skin for subsequent treatments, like serums, masks, and creams. Think of it like the finishing touch to a painting: the step that makes the painting look perfectly manicured.
Which Detergents to Choose
- Foaming Gel: excellent for combination or oily skin, it gives a sensation of freshness and purifies without drying too much (if the formula is good).
- Cleansing Cream: more delicate, suitable for dry or sensitive skin, forms a light or almost no foam.
- Cleansing Mousse: soft and pleasant to massage, a good compromise for all skin types.
- Gentle Cleanser Without Foam: some people, especially those with hyper-sensitive skin, prefer a milk cleanser or a non-foaming gel. The principle remains the same: remove oil residue and cleanse thoroughly.
How to Use It
Immediately after rinsing the first step, take a small amount of cleanser (on damp skin), massage in circular motions all over your face for 30-60 seconds. Pay attention to areas such as the hairline, the wings of the nose, the chin. Then rinse with preferably warm water, not boiling, to avoid further dehydrating the skin.
Advantages and Benefits of Double Cleansing
Complete Makeup Removal and Sunscreens
La double cleansing It is perfect if you use a high SPF or a long-lasting foundation every day. These products are wonderful for protecting the skin or ensuring that makeup lasts, but they are also more resistant and anchored. A single step is often not enough to remove them. The oil dissolves the fat and fat-soluble part, while the aqueous cleanser eliminates dust, sweat and residual impurities.
Skin More Receptive to Treatments
After such a thorough cleansing, the skin is like a clean canvas. Products such as serums, creams e oils penetrate better, enhancing their effectiveness. You will have fewer pimples or irritations and you will notice a brighter complexion. In addition, if you combine double cleansing with aexfoliation periodic (1-2 times a week, depending on your skin type), you will create a perfect base for regenerating your skin.
Reduction of Blemishes and Clogged Pores
Many people report an improvement in blemishes (blackheads, breakouts) after introducing double cleansing. This makes sense: less buildup of sebum, makeup, and dirt equals less risk of clogging. As a result, skin appears smoother and more even.
Who is Double Cleansing Recommended for?
Oily or Combination Skin
It may sound strange at first: an oil on oily skin? Well yes, because a well-formulated oil product dissolves excess sebum, preventing it from remaining trapped in the pores. Then the gel or foaming cleanser completes the cleansing. You just have to choose a non-comedogenic cleansing oil and a gentle water cleanser that does not “degrease” too much, avoiding the rebound effect.
Dry or Sensitive Skin
Traditional foaming cleansers can often be drying. Introducing a cleansing oil reduces the need for harsh formulas. This gently cleanses the skin, leaving it soft and nourished. The second water step should be light and non-irritating (such as a milky cream or a sulfate-free gel).
Normal Skin
If you’re lucky enough to have “normal” skin, double cleansing can be a real daily luxury, ensuring you always have a healthy complexion. It also allows you to vary your products depending on the season, opting for a richer oil in the winter and a more refreshing gel in the summer.
Tables: Comparison of Various Types of Products to Use in the First and Second Step
| Step (First/Second) | Product Example | Textures/Features | Ideal for Skin Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| First Step – Oil | Argan Cleansing Oil | Oily consistency, emulsifies on contact with water, removes heavy makeup | All types, especially dry skin |
| First Step – Conditioner | Cleansing Balm Shea | Thick balm that transforms into oil, great on waterproof makeup | Dry or combination skin, preferably non-oily |
| Second Step – Gel | Gentle Cleansing Gel | Light textural, produces moderate foam, removes oil residues and water-soluble dirt | Mixed, fat |
| Second Step – Foam | Soft Purifying Mousse | Soft, delicate, leaves skin fresh, excellent rinsing | Normal or mixed with a tendency towards oily skin |
| Second Step – Cream | Cleanser | Low foaming, nourishes and cleanses gently | Dry, sensitive |
Doubts and False Myths
“Double Cleansing Is Too Harsh”
Many fear overdoing it. In reality, if the products are well chosen (delicate oil + gentle cleanser) you do not create stress on the skin, on the contrary, cleansing is easier. methodical but respectful. Of course, if you use a harsh cleanser, you could dry out your skin. It's all about careful selection of formulations, and matching them to your skin type.
“It Takes Too Much Time”
At first it may seem like an extra step, but in reality 2-3 minutes is enough. The oil is massaged in briefly, rinsed off, then you apply the second cleanser and rinse again. The comfort and cleanliness you get more than makes up for those extra 60 seconds.
“It doesn’t matter if you don’t wear much makeup”
Even if you don't wear much makeup, there's still sebum, smog, sunscreens, and fine dust that accumulate. Even a thin layer of tinted cream and SPF 50+ require thorough removal in the evening. So double cleansing remains a valid method for keeping skin free of residue.
Sample Evening Double Cleansing Routine
step-by-step
- Cleansing Oil (first step):
- Massage onto dry skin, removing makeup and impurities.
- I add a little water, turning the oil into a milky emulsion.
- Rinse thoroughly.
- Water-based Detergent (second step):
- I apply a gel or mousse to a damp face.
- Massage for 30 seconds, focusing on the nose, lip contour, forehead.
- Rinse with warm water and pat dry.
- Tonic or Essence:
- I dab my face with a cotton ball or with my hands, using a hydrating toner or essence, to restore the pH.
- Serum e Night Cream:
- Now that the skin is perfectly clean, I apply the specific treatments. If I use retinol, I apply it now. Then the cream, and the skin is ready to rest.
Results and What to Expect
Time Required to Notice Differences
If you’ve never double-cleansed, you may see benefits after just a few days: brighter skin, fewer impurities, makeup that goes on better in the morning. In the long run (a few weeks), skin tends to be softer, with less clogged pores and better overall quality.
Possible Reactions or Initial Purging
If you have very impure skin, you may initially notice some breakouts (purging), as your skin gets rid of blackheads and accumulated impurities. Nothing to be afraid of: continue with consistency, and the results will come. Obviously, if the irritation persists, review your products, perhaps they are too aggressive.
More Receptive Skin
Another thing I noticed is that once I double cleansed, my serums and creams seemed to penetrate better. I was able to improve the effects of some anti-blemish and anti-wrinkle treatments because my skin was more clean, in a physical sense but also in terms of balanced skin barrier.
Conclusions
La double cleansing it's not a whim, but a real game changer for those who want clean, radiant skin that’s ready to receive the benefits of serums and creams. Don’t worry if you’re worried about making the routine too long at first: in reality, just a few extra minutes can make a big leap in quality. And remember, it’s all about finding the balance: a gentle oil or balm to dissolve impurities and makeup, followed by a light water cleanser to finish the job.
Whether you have dry, oily or combination skin, double cleansing can perfectly suit your needs, as long as you choose suitable products and do not overdo it with aggressive formulas. You will feel the difference after the first week: fewer blackheads, a brighter complexion, and the pleasant sensation of having really removed all the dirt from the day.
And you, have you ever tried double cleansing? What products did you use and how did you find it? Share your experience in the comments: I'd love to know your routine and maybe discover new products or tricks to make double cleansing even more effective!
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