Why Should You Double Cleanse?

We all love the idea of applying a fancy serum to solve our skin concerns, but all too often, the crucial first step of a proper skincare routine—washing our face—is rushed and overlooked. Prior to nourishing your skin with essential nutrients, it's vital to eliminate all the environmental pollutants from the skin's surface. The best way to start is by thoroughly removing all makeup and sunscreen, allowing your favorite cleanser to work more efficiently.

Start with a cleanser designed to dissolve the layer of makeup and sunscreen first and then massage in your second cleanser to clean out your pores.

The key to effective double cleansing lies in the two-step process. Begin your double cleansing routine with a cleanser designed to dissolve makeup and sunscreen. Opt for an oil-based cleanser like the Dermalogica Precleanse, which effectively removes oils without compromising the skin's natural barrier lipids or clogging pores. It's suitable for all skin types, especially if you wear heavy makeup or a thick mineral SPF. Alternatively, if you're only removing eye makeup and sweat, micellar water such as Bioderma Micellar Water can be a convenient option for your first cleanse.

After the initial cleanse, it's essential to choose a second cleanser that caters to your specific skin type to achieve optimal results from your double cleansing routine. Here are some recommended cleansers suitable for each skin type:

Normal Skin:

Paulas Choice Perfectly Balanced Foaming Cleanser: This gentle, non-foaming cleanser contains ceramides and hyaluronic acid to maintain the skin's natural moisture balance.

Oily Skin:

Vichy Normaderm Daily Deep Cleansing Gel: Formulated with salicylic acid, this foaming cleanser effectively removes excess oil and helps prevent breakouts.

Dry Skin:

Paulas Choice Softening Cream Cleanser: This fragrance-free and sulfate-free cleanser is specially formulated for sensitive and dry skin, providing a soothing cleanse without stripping the skin of essential moisture.

Combination Skin:

Face Reality Ultra Gentle Cleanser: This foaming cleanser is gentle enough for combination skin and helps to remove impurities while maintaining the skin's balance.

Sensitive Skin:

Paulas Choice CALM Ultra Gentle Cleanser: A mild, soap-free cleanser suitable for sensitive skin, providing a gentle cleanse without causing irritation.

Acne-Prone Skin:

La Roche-Posay Effaclar Medicated Gel Cleanser: Formulated with salicylic acid and other acne-fighting ingredients, this gel cleanser helps clear acne breakouts while preventing future blemishes.

Mature Skin:

Dermalogica Skin Resurfacing Lactic Acid Cleanser: This dual-action exfoliating cleanser helps retexturize aging skin. Providing a smooth texture for mature skin.

When selecting a cleanser, be mindful of the ingredients and avoid products that contain potential irritants, such as artificial fragrances, sulfates, or harsh chemicals. Always patch-test new products and reduce frequency if necessary, especially if you have sensitive or reactive skin.

As a general rule, remember that double cleansing is not necessary twice a day. It's best to perform this thorough cleansing routine in the evening to remove the buildup from the day. In the morning, a single cleanse is usually sufficient, followed by your regular skincare routine.

Tips for a better cleanse

Here are some tips for a more effective cleanse:

1. After rinsing off your cleanser, gently pat your face dry with a Clean Skin Club Cloth Towel. You should never use your bath towel because it harbors bacteria and contains detergent residue that can irritate your skin.
2. Once or twice a week, consider incorporating a textured element into your cleansing routine for better removal of dirt and oil. For instance, the PMD Beauty Facial Cleansing Brush is odor-resistant, antibacterial, hypoallergenic, and waterproof. This hassle-free brush head never needs replacing, which is a huge plus!
3. Always rinse with cold water. If you prefer washing your face in the shower, do it last (after washing your hair with shampoo/conditioner) and reduce the water temperature to warm/cold. Hot water can be drying and detrimental to your skin's protective barrier.

In conclusion, double cleansing might seem daunting, but it forms the foundation of your skincare routine. By thoroughly removing makeup, sunscreen, and environmental pollutants, you pave the way for your other skincare products to work more effectively. So, embrace this essential step, and your skin will thank you with a radiant and revitalized glow!