A simple guide to double cleansing
A simple guide to double cleansing and everything you need to know.
First things first, what is double cleansing and why do I need to double-cleanse?
Double cleansing is an integral part of Korean skincare and is the first and second step of the renowned 10 Step Korean Skincare Routine.
The double cleansing method involves cleansing your face not once but twice in two steps: the first step using an oil-based cleanser and the second using a water-based cleanser.
An oil-cleanser works to gently draw out oil-based impurities/debris such as makeup, sebum, SPF and other pollutants. Oil-based cleansers are needed to thoroughly and properly cleanse the skin as water-based cleansers are not able to remove oil-based impurities as oil and water do not mix.
The first cleanse entails an oil-based cleanser which can come in the form of a cleansing balm, like the Heimish All Clean Balm, or a cleansing oil such as the Beauty of Joseon Ginseng Cleansing Oil.
To use an oil cleanser, you want to scoop a suitable amount of cleansing balm or dispense 1-2 pumps of cleansing oil into the palm of your hands and onto dry skin gently massage on your face in circular motions targeting areas that are more congested. Gently rubbing in the oil for at least a minute will help unclog pores lifting blackheads and sebaceous filaments from the skin.
Add some water and continue to massage your face in circular motions to emulsify the product and you’ll notice it turn milky (this means you’re doing it right). Lastly, you want to make sure you thoroughly rinse off with lukewarm water.
The second step is using a water-based cleanser like a gel cleanser or a foam cleanser, an example would be k-beauty’s cult classic – COSRX Low pH Good Morning Gel Cleanser.
Water-based cleansers work to remove water-based impurities such as sweat, dirt and any residue left from the oil-cleanse.
How to use a water-based cleanser: After washing off the oil-cleanser, follow with the water-based cleanser. Add the gel cleanser to the face or the foam cleanser and work up a lather by adding some water. Gently massage the cleanser in circular motions for at least a minute and finish by rinsing off with lukewarm water.
The benefits of double cleansing:
Double cleansing is typically reserved for your night / p.m routine. Alongside wearing makeup and SPF, throughout the day our skin collects dirt and debris so double cleansing ensures your skin is thoroughly clean before you apply the rest of your skincare and helps the products penetrate better giving you a more clear and clarified complexion.