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I read a Quora thread filled with people wondering, if bathing really makes us clean, why does the towel get dirty? This begs the question: Are you really clean after one wash?
I used to think washing my face once was enough. Turns out, between going to and from work, layers of sunscreen, the occasional full beat, and sweat a single cleanse doesn’t quite cut it.
The whole point of skincare is to have healthy skin, and to achieve this, the skin must be free from oils and dirt. If you wear makeup or typically have oily skin, you want to get rid of oil and product residue to avoid breakouts and other skin issues
That’s where double cleansing comes in. The first step melts everything off. The second step actually cleans your skin. Here’s how I do it and the products you can trust to do it well.
What is Double Cleansing?
Double cleansing means washing your face twice using two different types of cleansers—first, an oil-based formula to dissolve makeup, sunscreen, and sebum, then a water-based cleanser to remove sweat, dirt, and remaining impurities.
Koreans dominate the skincare industry for many reasons, but mainly because they prioritize an effective multi-step routine.
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How to Double Cleanse: Step-by-Step Guide
A double cleanse starts with an oil-based cleanser to break down makeup, sunscreen, and excess sebum, followed by a water-based cleanser to remove lingering impurities like sweat, dirt, and dead skin cells. If you wear SPF or makeup regularly (which, let’s be honest, most of us do), this two-step method helps prevent buildup that can lead to breakouts or dullness.
The cardinal rule of skincare is to start every process with clean hands and a dry face so the oil can fully bind with impurities.
Read Also: The Right Cleansers for Oily Dry, Sensitive and Acne-Prone Skin.
Then, micellar water can work as a first step if you’re going makeup-free or light, but oil cleansers are more effective for removing stubborn sunscreen or long-wear foundation. Below are some oil-based cleansers I rate for getting the job done without stripping your skin.
1. Anua Heart Leaf Pore Control Cleansing Oil
Anua Heart Leaf Pore Control Cleansing Oil is like a gentle lover—it has a refreshing and soft feel on the face. No matter how heavy your makeup is, this cleansing oil will effortlessly wash it off (even waterproof mascara).
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It uses heartleaf extract and nutrient-rich oils to tackle blackheads, calm inflammation, and tighten pores while rinsing away every impurity without stealing your skin’s natural glow. Fans rave about its silky, lightweight texture and non-stinging formula, which has over 650 reviews and a glowing 4.7-star rating on Anua’s site.
Suitable for: Normal, oily, and acne-prone skin. Price: $17.69. Where to Buy: Shop Amazon
2. Beauty of Joseon Ginseng Cleansing Oil
Made in South Korea, Beauty of Joseon Ginseng Cleansing Oil blends 50% soybean oil and 0.1% ginseng seed oil to dissolve makeup and sunscreen effortlessly. Its micellar-style formula removes impurities without clogging pores or drying out the skin. Users praise its subtle, earthy scent and how easily and quickly it cleanses the skin without being harsh on the skin.
Suitable for: Normal to dry skin.
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It’s hydrating but might be too oily for acne-prone types, and people with sensitive skin might react to some ingredients. Price: ₦15,300. Where to Buy: Shop Nectar Beauty Hub.
3. CeraVe Hydrating Foaming Oil Cleanser
If you are sceptical about skincare or afraid of trying new products, you might fall in love with the CeraVe Hydrating Foaming Oil Cleanser. Developed by dermatologists, this oil-to-foam formula combines squalane, essential ceramides, and hyaluronic acid to gently remove makeup, dirt, and oil while protecting your skin's natural barrier.
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You don’t have to worry about irritation or skin reactions because it’s fragrance-free, non-comedogenic, and ph-balanced. This means it is formulated to match your skin’s natural acidity (around ph 4.7–5.75), preserve your skin’s protective layer, support beneficial microbes, and prevent irritation or breakouts.
It's a great option for dry, very dry, sensitive, or eczema-prone skin, and it's even gentle enough for babies. However, this might not be your go-to if you have oily or acne-prone skin and are looking for deep exfoliation.
Price: ₦19,432. Where to Buy: Shop Teeka4.
Step 2 – Water-Based Cleansers
For the second cleanse, I lean toward gentle, water-based cleansers that won’t strip my skin barrier. I’ve used CeraVe’s Hydrating Facial Cleanser and Cetaphil’s Gentle Skin Cleanser. Both are mild, non-foaming and work especially well for morning cleanses or if your skin is feeling sensitive. If you have oily or acne-prone skin, you might find them too mild for a thorough night cleanse.
Apply a gentle foaming or gel cleanser to damp skin. Massage and rinse to remove water-soluble impurities like sweat and dirt. Gently pat your face dry and continue with toner, serums, and moisturiser.
These are my top choices of oil cleansers to use for the second step of double cleansing:
1. CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser
CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser is a dermatologist-developed gel lotion that lives up to its name. It contains three essential ceramides and hyaluronic acid to lock in moisture while removing extra impurities. Its lotion-like texture feels creamy, not foamy, so it rinses clean without stripping your skin’s natural oil.
Perfect as the second step in double cleansing, it removes sweat, dirt, and leftover oil, leaving your skin hydrated for serums and moisturisers. People praise its gentle, non-irritating formula on dry and sensitive skin, though those with very oily or acne-prone skin may need a deeper-cleansing gel or foam.
Price: ₦14,930. Where to Buy: Shop Teeka4.
2. Neutrogena Hydro Boost Hydrating Gel Cleanser
Neutrogena's Hydro Boost Hydrating Gel Cleanser is a standout second-step cleanser in any double cleansing routine. This light gel, enriched with hyaluronic acid, transforms into a smooth lather that removes dirt, oil, and makeup without drying out your skin.
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Its gentle, fragrance-free formula suits all skin types, even sensitive and acne-prone ones. People love how refreshing it feels, leaving their skin clean and hydrated without any tightness. Interestingly, this cleanser has been featured in Allure's Best of Beauty Awards for sensitive skin products.
Price: ₦27,934.82. Where to Buy: Shop Care to Beauty.
3. Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser
Formulated by dermatologists, Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser is a great choice if you have sensitive, dry, or acne-prone skin. It’s a mild, fragrance-free blend that contains hydrating ingredients like glycerin, niacinamide, and panthenol. These work together to cleanse your skin without removing its natural moisture.
This cleanser is also an ideal second step in a double cleansing routine, helping to clear away any remaining impurities after using an oil-based cleanser. Many users appreciate its soothing effect and have noticed improved skin conditions like rosacea and eczema. While it works well for most skin types, those with oily skin might prefer a foaming cleanser for a deeper clean.
Price: $33.56. Where to Buy: Shop Amazon.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Do I need to double cleanse every day?
Ans: Only if you wear makeup and sunscreen or live in a polluted environment. Otherwise, a single gentle cleanse in the morning and evening may suffice.Q: Can double cleansing cause dryness?
Ans: Over-cleansing can strip natural oils. If you have dry or sensitive skin, choose hydrating formulas and avoid foaming cleansers with sulfates.Q: Can I mix and match brands?
Ans: Absolutely. The key is using an oil cleanser first and a water-based cleanser second, regardless of brand.Q: What’s the best order after double cleansing?
Ans: In the morning, follow up with toner (optional), serums/essences, eye cream, moisturiser, and sunscreen.
Read Also: The Right Way to Layer Skincare (No More Wasting Expensive Products)
Double cleansing isn't just another skincare step; it's your key to a clean and healthy complexion. And the best part? Double cleansing can significantly reduce unwelcome breakouts by thoroughly removing pore-clogging impurities and discouraging bacterial growth, leaving you with clearer, more radiant skin.