Double cleansing: Myth or fact?

Double cleansing has been all the rage in the beauty world for some time now. It’s one thing to stress the importance of cleansing, but then it turns out it’s not enough to cleanse once; you have to do it twice. AND with different products.

But as we know, a smart beauty shopper never takes anything at face value.

So, let’s look at science and the facts.

Is double cleansing really something we should do or just a clever marketing practice to make us buy two separate cleansing products?

I’m gonna throw in a spoiler-ish confession: I’m a HUUGE fan of double cleansing and has been doing it for years, ever since I’ve read about it on Caroline Hirons‘ blog. (BTW If you’re not reading her blog, do yourself a favor and check it out.)

And I think, in this case, I have science on my side.

Pretty basic science, as a matter of fact, which is “Like attracts and dissolves like”.

At the end of each day, there are two kinds of dirt and impurities on your face:

• Oil-based, like sunscreen, water-proof make-up, and sebum
• Water-based, like sweat and dirt

And most cleansers are either oil-based or water-based.

So, what follows from this?

+ Basic science no1: Oil and water don’t mix. I’m sure you’ve seen images of oil spills sitting atop of the ocean or other water surfaces. That’s because oil doesn’t dissolve water and vice versa. Which also means that a single cleanser cannot pull out and dissolve both oil- and water-based impurities.

+ Basic science no2: Like attracts and dissolves like. A water-based cleanser will be good for the water-based dirt, and the oil cleanser will bind to and lift the oil-based impurities. As simple as that.

So, the logical conclusion is that if you have both water and oil-based dirt on your face (as you do), you need two different kinds of cleansers to make sure you get rid of both. And that’s the oversimplified, but nevertheless accurate science behind double cleansing.

Also, don’t be afraid of oil cleansers. They are packed with hydrating and anti-oxidant ingredients, and will not make your face oilier at all. The age-old myth that oily skin needs drying is just that. A myth. A harmful myth, to be honest and quite counterproductive as well, if you think about it. Your skin will produce oil, no matter what. If you strip it from its natural oils with the constant drying, it will work a lot harder to replace it. The result: even oilier skin. Trust the power of good, nourishing oils. What not to use on your face? Coconut oil and nut oils in general. They can actually clog your pores. Stick with the designated oil cleansers instead of natural DYIs.

The traditional method

Start with an oil cleanser, like a nice balm or cleansing oil. Massage it to your face and then use a cleansing cloth. Immerse it in warm water and then wipe away the cleanser. This also massages and slightly exfoliates the skin, leaving it clean and ultra soft.

Take a water-based cleanser, like a gel or cleansing cream, massage it onto your face and take it off with either cotton pads or simply water.

My method

My method is slightly different as I switch the two steps. I start with a micellar water and cotton pads to take off most of my makeup. I actually go over it two times (does that make it a triple cleanse?)

Then I use an oil cleanser or a balm and a warm (not hot!) cleansing cloth.

I prefer this, because my skin feels softer, more hydrated after the oil+cloth method then the other way around. Also, oil as a first cleanser sometimes irritates my eyes, though I have no idea why, as this only happens when I use it first.

Try both methods and choose whatever suits you. Just make sure you use different types of cleansers.

The bottom line: does double cleansing really work? Yes, a 100%. It’s not a myth or a marketing trick, but hard fact. DO double cleanse.

Your skin will be forever thankful.