If you've ever wondered whether double cleansing is really necessary, the short answer is yes—especially if you wear makeup or SPF.
Many people spend time and money on serums, moisturisers, and treatments, but overlook one of the most important steps in their skincare routine: properly cleansing the skin.
Double cleansing doesn't mean washing your face twice with the same cleanser. Instead, it involves using two different types of cleansers to thoroughly remove makeup, sunscreen, excess oil, and impurities that build up throughout the day.
Why Is Double Cleansing Important?
Throughout the day, our skin is exposed to pollution, dirt, oil, sweat, makeup, and sunscreen. While a regular cleanser can remove some of these, it often struggles to completely break down heavier products such as foundation and SPF.
When these products aren't fully removed, they can remain on the skin overnight and potentially contribute to:
As we get older, our skin naturally becomes drier and more delicate. Proper cleansing helps ensure your skin is clean without the need for harsh scrubbing, allowing your evening skincare products to work more effectively.
Even if you don't wear makeup, I strongly recommend double cleansing if you've worn SPF during the day.
Modern SPF products are designed to be long-lasting and water-resistant, which is excellent for protecting your skin but can make them harder to remove. A quick wash with a regular cleanser may not completely eliminate all traces of SPF.
By double cleansing, you can be confident that your skin is properly clean before applying your evening skincare products.
Double cleansing is simple and only adds a couple of minutes to your evening routine.
Step 1: Use an Oil-Based Cleanser
Start with a cleansing balm or cleansing oil on dry skin.
Massage it gently over your face for around 30 to 60 seconds. This helps dissolve:
Makeup
SPF
Excess oil
Daily impurities
Don't be afraid to spend a little time massaging the product into the skin. This can also help improve circulation and create a relaxing end to the day.
Add a small amount of water to emulsify the cleanser, then rinse thoroughly.
Step 2: Follow with a Water-Based Cleanser
Next, use your regular cleanser.
This second cleanse removes any remaining residue and cleans the skin itself, leaving it fresh and prepared for the rest of your evening routine.
Choose a gentle cleanser that leaves your skin feeling comfortable rather than tight or stripped.
Common Double Cleansing Mistakes
Double cleansing should leave your skin feeling clean, not dry. If your skin feels tight afterwards, your cleanser may be too harsh.
Rushing the First Cleanse
The first cleanse is doing the heavy lifting. Take your time and allow the cleansing balm or oil to properly break down makeup and sunscreen.
Skipping Double Cleansing When Wearing SPF
Many people only double cleanse when wearing makeup. However, SPF can be just as stubborn to remove.
Is Double Cleansing Right for Everyone?
If you don't wear makeup or SPF and have very dry or sensitive skin, you may not need to double cleanse every evening.
However, for most people who wear daily SPF—which should be all of us—the benefits of double cleansing usually outweigh the extra minute or two it takes.
Double cleansing is one of the simplest ways to improve your skincare routine. By thoroughly removing makeup, sunscreen, and daily impurities, you're creating the perfect foundation for healthy, glowing skin.
If you're already investing in quality skincare products, don't let ineffective cleansing prevent them from doing their job.
Your evening routine starts with clean skin—and double cleansing is one of the best ways to achieve it.
