The Secrets of Double Cleansing

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After I published my review post about Simple Cleansing Oil last week, many people commented in different social networks about the fact of cleansing the face with an oil. That brought me to write this post about the Double Cleansing, something familiar to me but that may not be the same for everybody.

What is the Double Cleansing?

This way of cleansing the face comes from Asia, more precisely from Korean and Japanese beauty routines. The Double Cleansing is a two step cleansing process. The first step makes use of an oil-based cleanser such as cleansing oils, balms, butters or milk. It is based on the principle of “like dissolve like”. Most of our makeup products, skincare products, sunscreens and creams are oil based as well as the natural sebum produced by your own skin. An oil-based product will disolve this oil-based dirt perfectly.

The objective of the sencond step is to remove other type of dirt, pollution and dead cells. For this second step the product used is a water-based product, as can be gels, foams mousse or soaps.

What are the benefits oif this process?

There are plenty of benefits.

First of all, your skin is deeply cleansed as you are using two different type of products, one for each type of residue. That prepares the skin for the products or treatment you intend to apply after cleansing. 

If you have any skin concern such as acne, blackheads, redness, etc, the double cleansing will help to deal with them. After some time doing the double cleansing you will see how this type of problems are reduced.

It is good for the environment as you don’t need to use cotton pads or wipes. Instead, you are using reusable cloths, which also will make you save money in the long term.

It is indicated for all skin type people. Sometimes, oily-skin people are concerned about using oil to clean their face, but there is no reason for that. In fact, there is an improvement in oil production as the oil-based cleansers help to eliminate the excess of sebum produced by your skin.

How can I do it?

Step 1. Choose an oil-based product right for your skin type. Take a small amount, rub it between your hands and apply to your face with a gently massage.

Step 2. Remove the oil cleanser with a muslin or other type of cloth and warm water. Wet the cloth and put over your face, pressing to remove the oil. Rinse it and repeat few more times.

Alternatively, you can rinse the oil with warm water.

Step 3. With the right water-based product, wash your face using a small amount of product. You can use in this step a brush or silicone pad to make a deeper cleanser. However, I recommend to do that only couple of days each week.

Step 4. Rinse with luke-warm water.

Step 5. Pat-dry your face with a clean and soft cloth or towel.

Step 6. Finish the cleansing with thew application of a toner, preferably alcohol-free, to close your pores.

Which type of cleansers shall I use?

There are different type of oil-based and water-based product, and the one you choose will depends on your skin type and preferences, but as a guide,

• Normal to Dry Skin: Cleansing Oil and a Mousse

• Dry Skin: Cleansing Balm and Foam Cleanser

• Oily Skin: Micellar water and exfoliating gel

• Sensitive Skin: Cleansing Balm and soft soap

Which products do I recommend?

❤ ❤ Oil-based products ❤ ❤

Clinique Take The Day Off Cleansing Balm

The Ordinary Squalane Cleanser

❤ ❤ Water-based products ❤ ❤

CereaVe Foaming Facial Cleanser

❤ ❤ Face Cloths ❤ ❤

❤ ❤ Face Brushes and other tools ❤ ❤

brushworks Facial Cleansing Brush

I have been doing the double cleansing for more than two years now and I can feel the difference in my skin, it is softer, I have less breakouts and I reduce a bit the dryness. Let me know if you also do or if you are going to try. 

Do you want a review of any of the products I mention? Let me know in the comments.