The double cleansing method is using an oil-based cleanser as the first step in your cleansing routine. This includes things like cleansing oil or cleansing balm. This assist in removing make up, sunscreen, excess oil, as well as dirt and grime buildup from the day. The second step involves using typically a gel or foam-based cleanser to clean any more residual buildup as well as rebalance your skin's pH and prepare it for skin care to follow. For those with more dry or sensitive skin I recommend using a cream-based or hydrating cleanser as your second step.

 

Many times using a single step cleansing routine is not sufficient in removing all the build-up (oil, grime, dirt, makeup, sunscreen) from the day and get your skin prepped for skincare. Oil-based cleansers are also more effective at removing make up, sunscreen, and excess oil. However oil-based cleansers alone can still leave a film on the skin so that's why I recommend following that with a different type of cleanser to remove the residual product on the face.

 

How do you double cleanse? 

The first step in a double cleansing routine is using an oil based cleanser, whether it's a cleansing oil or cleansing balm. All skin types typically do well with an oil-based cleanser as long as the cleanser states that it's non-comedogenic and as long as the oil-based cleanser is still followed by a separate cleanser. I tend to encourage those with oily or acne prone skin did use oil-based cleansers because it can remove excess oil without clogging the pores.

When it comes to the second step

of the double cleanse method, I do think that specific cleansers work better for specific skin types.

 

For oily skin, I recommend using a foam or gel-base cleanser.

For acne-prone skin, I recommend using a salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide cleanser. You can also use a foam or gel-based cleanser if you are already using other acne treatments in your skin care routine.

For those with dry skin, I recommend using a cream-based cleanser. I would look for ingredients that are hydrating to the skin, including things like ceramides or glycerin.

For those with sensitive skin, I typically recommend also using more of a cream-based cleanser. If you have oily but sensitive skin, there are plenty of gentle foam or gel-based cleansers available.

For those with normal or combo skin, I recommend using a gentle foam or gel-based cleanser.

 

When should you double cleanse and how often?

I recommend double cleansing every evening before you start you night time skincare routine.

Any precautions i.e. is it possible to over cleanse your skin? What would be the signs that you’re doing too much? 

Yes, it is possible to over cleanse your skin. This can usually occur if you are using cleansers that are not pH-balanced, cleansers that are using ingredients that can strip oils from your skin, or if you're over using cleansers with medicated ingredients like a salicylic acid or other exfoliating acids like glycolic acid as well as benzoyl peroxide. Signs that you're over cleansing your skin can include feeling dry or tight. Increased skin sensitivity or irritation can be more severe signs of over cleansing.