Is Double Cleansing the Key to Healthier Skin? Dermatologists Explain

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Double cleansing might seem like just another step to add to your skincare routine, but it turns out that washing your face twice has its benefits (like potentially healthier skin). Whether you go for round two with your favorite face wash or enlist the help of a cleansing oil or cleansing balm, this skincare technique may help get rid of textured skin, clogged pores, and other complexion concerns.

Meet the experts: Karan Lal, D.O., M.S., F.A.A.D., double board-certified dermatologist with Affiliated Dermatology in Scottsdale, AZ; and Marisa Garshick, M.D., F.A.A.D., a board-certified dermatologist in New York

While it may seem like a gimmick to get you to purchase more products, it turns out the method is dermatologist-approved. Ahead, experts explain exactly what benefits you can expect from double cleansing, how to do it, and the best products for the job.

What is double cleansing?

As the name suggests, “double cleansing refers to a two-step cleansing process using both an oil-based cleanser followed by a water-based cleanser,” explains Marisa Garshick, M.D., F.A.A.D., a board-certified dermatologist in New York. While you can technically use your standard, water-based cleanser twice to double cleanse, the traditional method involves an oil cleanser or balm first, followed by your traditional face wash.

Overall, double cleansing helps achieve a deeper clean than a regular one-step method—and may be particularly helpful for those looking to remove makeup, sunscreen, or excess oil.

How to double cleanse

For the first step in the double cleansing process, you’ll usually want to reach for an oil-based cleanser or balm to break up the oil on the skin, says Karan Lal, D.O., M.S., F.A.A.D., double board-certified dermatologist with Affiliated Dermatology in Scottsdale, AZ. This first cleanse also helps to remove any makeup or sunscreen. Simply apply the oil or balm to the face and rub it into your skin before rinsing your face with water. For those who don’t want to use an oil cleanser, micellar water and a cotton round will also do the trick.

Lipikar AP+ Gentle Foaming Cleansing Oil

Atoderm Cleansing Oil

Cleansing Oil

“Next, use a gentle cleanser right after to get rid of any remaining residue,” Dr. Lal explains, adding that while he generally recommends a non-foaming cleanser for a second wash, those looking for an even deeper clean can follow up their oil or balm with a foaming face wash.

Ultra Gentle Daily Face Wash

Hydrating Cream-to-Foam Cleanser

Gentle Facial Cleanser

Benefits of double cleansing

The main benefit of double cleansing is that it helps eliminate excess oil, makeup, sunscreen, and other debris from the skin when a standard cleanse is not enough. “By properly eliminating buildup, makeup, and sunscreen, it ensures that the rest of the skincare routine can properly penetrate,” Dr. Garshick explains.

In helping you get an overall cleaner complexion and therefore allowing the rest of your skincare products to penetrate the skin more easily (and therefore work harder), you may see additional benefits like smoother skin, reduced breakouts, and a healthier skin barrier.

Who should consider double cleansing?

Dr. Lal recommends double cleansing for those who wear a lot of makeup or have very oily skin, in particular. “If you’re wearing makeup every day, tinted sunscreen, or you’re wearing things that are occlusive, then you should be double cleansing,” he says.

Who should avoid double cleansing?

While the method is considered safe, there are those who may want to avoid it. Specifically, Dr. Garshick recommends foregoing the second step if you have dry or sensitive skin. “While it is okay to double cleanse, it is best to avoid if the skin feels dry or stripped,” she says.

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