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THE ULTIMATE GUIDE TO DOUBLE CLEANSING: SHOULD YOU DO IT MORNING AND NIGHT?
If you’ve ever wondered whether you should double cleanse twice a day or just at night, you’re not alone. With skincare trends constantly evolving, it can be difficult to know what’s best for your skin. Double cleansing is one of the most effective ways to remove impurities, but is it necessary in both your morning and evening routine? Let’s break it down.
WHAT IS DOUBLE CLEANSING?
Double cleansing is a two-step face cleansing method that ensures all dirt, oil, sunscreen, and makeup are thoroughly removed. The process typically involves:
Step 1: An Oil-Based Cleanser – This breaks down makeup, SPF, and sebum.
Step 2: A Water-Based or Powder Cleanser – This removes sweat, bacteria, and any remaining debris.
This method ensures that your skin is deeply cleansed, allowing any serums or treatments applied afterward to work more effectively.
SHOULD YOU DOUBLE CLEANSE IN THE MORNING AND EVENING?
Night-time Double Cleansing: Essential for Healthy Skin
Double cleansing at night is a non-negotiable step, especially if you wear makeup or sunscreen. Your skin accumulates pollutants, oil, and dirt throughout the day, and a single cleanse often isn’t enough to fully remove everything.
✔ Removes makeup, SPF, and excess oil
✔ Prevents breakouts by clearing clogged pores
✔ Enhances the effectiveness of serums and moisturisers
Morning Double Cleansing: Do You Really Need It?
While night-time double cleansing is widely recommended, the morning routine depends on your skin type.
✔ Oily or acne-prone skin → Yes – Overnight oil production can clog pores, making morning double cleansing beneficial.
✘ Dry or sensitive skin → No – Over-cleansing can strip natural oils, so a gentle water-based cleanser or just rinsing with water may be enough.
DAY VS. NIGHT DOUBLE CLEANSING:
HOW TO INCORPORATE DOUBLE CLEANSING INTO YOUR SKINCARE ROUTINE
🌞 Morning Routine:
Use lukewarm water to rinse your face.
If needed, use a lightweight oil cleanser to dissolve excess sebum.
Follow with a gentle powder or water-based cleanser to refresh your skin.
Apply toner, serum, moisturiser, and SPF.
🌙 Night-time Routine:
Massage an oil-based cleanser onto dry skin for at least 30 seconds.
Rinse with lukewarm water.
Apply a powder or water-based cleanser to deeply clean pores.
Follow with your night-time skincare products like toner, serum, and moisturiser.
WHO SHOULD BE DOUBLE CLEANSING?
✔ People who wear makeup daily – A must for removing foundation, mascara, and SPF.
✔ Those with oily or acne-prone skin – Helps prevent clogged pores and breakouts.
✔ Anyone exposed to pollution – Removes dirt, toxins, and environmental pollutants.
✔ Skincare enthusiasts – Allows serums and treatments to absorb better.
However, if you have extremely dry or sensitive skin, you might only need to double cleanse at night or opt for gentler cleansing formulas
COMMON MYTHS ABOUT DOUBLE CLEANSING
-
"Double cleansing strips the skin of moisture.”
Not if you use the right cleansers. Oil cleansers nourish the skin, while gentle water-based cleansers prevent over-drying. -
“Only people who wear makeup need to double cleanse.”
Even if you don’t wear makeup, SPF and pollution still accumulate on the skin. -
“You must double cleanse every morning and night.”
Your skin type determines whether morning double cleansing is necessary.
FAQS ABOUT DOUBLE CLEANSING
Is double cleansing necessary for everyone?
Not necessarily. While it’s beneficial for most skin types, those with very dry or sensitive skin may only need to double cleanse at night.
Can I use any oil for double cleansing?
No. It’s best to use a cleansing oil specifically formulated for the face, as some oils (like coconut oil) can clog pores.
Does double cleansing help with acne?
Yes! By removing excess sebum and impurities, double cleansing can help prevent breakouts and improve skin clarity.
Should I double cleanse if I don’t wear makeup?
Yes. Even without makeup, sunscreen, pollution, and natural oil build-up require proper cleansing.
What should I do after double cleansing?
Follow up with toner, serum, moisturizer, and SPF (in the morning) or your night-time skincare routine.
Double cleansing is a game-changer for clear, healthy skin. While it’s essential at night, whether you need it in the morning depends on your skin type. By understanding your skin’s needs and using the right cleansers, you can achieve a glowing, refreshed complexion without overdoing it.
Words approved by: Dr Yannis Alexandrides
Dr. Yannis Alexandrides, founder of 111SKIN, is a renowned cosmetic surgeon and innovator in skincare. Informed by over 30 years of medical experience, his pioneering formulas merge science and luxury, delivering unparalleled results globally, redefining skincare standards.
