Why you need to double cleanse

Just when we think 2020 can't get any weirder and stressful, something new happens, and it's just... relentless. People keep mentioning "the new normal," and one thing is for sure, all of us had to adapt to new rules and routines. For me, one thing I can't do at the moment is read. Which sucks as I love reading. It started right about as we went into lockdown. A few weeks ago, I enthusiastically downloaded a bunch of new books on Kindle thinking surely I have adapted. Surely I'll be able to focus now. Nope.

One thing that helped us keep a modicum of sanity is a consistent(ish) skincare routine. Not gonna lie, there were days when even that was too much. But overall, 99% of the time, we did it and felt better for it. So, let's talk double-cleansing.

Why is cleansing important?

A cleanse is the first step to healthy skin. Simple as. Regardless of your skin type, we need to wash our faces properly to a) remove dirt, grime, makeup, sunscreen, sweat, and all the other debris. When we don't cleanse our faces, it can lead to inflammation, acne, breakouts, and premature aging.

What is a double cleanse?

It means washing your face with two cleansers. The first step is using an oil-based cleanser that breaks down sunscreen, makeup, and pollution on our faces. It is then followed up with a second cleanse, usually with a water-based cleanser.

Oil-based cleansers work to remove makeup, sunscreen, and any dirt or grime. They also dissolve sebum and clear pores without stripping the skin of its natural oils. Water-based cleanser targets your skin concerns and should hydrate, soothe the skin, and prepare it for the next steps in your routine.

How to pick the right products for a double cleanse

The most important thing is to consider your skin type and/or skin concerns. Oily and combination skin might prefer a thinner oil for the first cleanse and an acid-based or a clay cleanser as their second cleanse. Dry and dehydrated skin can go for a thicker cleansing oil or a rich, nourishing balm as their first cleanser. Then they can follow up with a cream or a gel cleanser.

And don't forget - the pH of your cleanser is important, choose wisely. After a double cleanse, your skin should feel soft and supple. Not tight.

The other factors also include your budget (luckily, there are options available at all price points). It's important whether you prefer a sensorial experience and need your cleansers to have a scent. Or you might prefer your products fragrance-free. Yes, it's just washing our faces. But, we all need a bit of joy in life these days. Cleansers give us joy.

How to double cleanse?

Dispense the cleansing oil or take a scoop of cleansing balm and massage into your face thoroughly. Wet a face cloth with some warm water and remove everything. Don't tug at your eyes to avoid irritation. Next, apply the second cleanser and massage in a circular motion. Rinse or remove with face cloth again and follow up with the rest of the steps in your routine.