Is Double Cleansing Necessary? We Consulted a Dermatologist.
March 12, 2025
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With the continuously changing skincare trends prevalent on social media—anyone else still following the slugging method?—it can be challenging to discern what is genuinely beneficial and what is merely a fad. When double cleansing started to rise in popularity, it initially seemed redundant and unnecessary (similar to shampoo instructions advising you to rinse and repeat). However, double cleansing has existed longer than you might think—and it can significantly benefit your skin.
The practice of double cleansing originated in Japanese and Korean skincare methods, incorporating both oil-based and foaming cleansers into routines. (It also gained traction during the well-known 10-step Korean skincare regimen). I spoke with Dr. Sarah Hogan, board-certified dermatologist and founder of Cosmedica Dermatology, to clarify the essentials of double cleansing, including whether it’s essential and if it suits everyone.
MEET THE EXPERT
Dr. Sarah Hogan, MD, FAAD
Dr. Sarah Hogan is a board-certified dermatologist, a fellowship-trained laser and cosmetic surgeon, and a member of the American Academy of Dermatology. She has been featured in Medscape, Self, Insider, Reuters, MSN, Newsweek, and The New York Times.
What is the double cleansing method?
As the term implies, double cleansing means cleansing the skin twice: once with an oil-based cleanser and then with a water-based cleanser. The aim is for the cleansers to work together to leave your skin thoroughly clean, devoid of dirt, grime, and makeup.
Should you double cleanse every day?
Double cleansing effectively cleans the skin deeply, removing all daily residues: sweat, dirt, sunscreen, makeup—you name it. The intention is for the skin to be left completely clean, both on the surface and within deeper layers, making it less susceptible to breakouts and congestion. Therefore, double cleansing can be done every day, particularly on days you wore makeup or were in environments that required it.
Who should double cleanse?
Like any skincare step or product, individual skin reactions to double cleansing can vary. “For individuals with skin conditions like eczema, rosacea, or sensitive skin, double cleansing might be too drying and can even lead to irritation,” explains Hogan. Additionally, double cleansing should be reserved for nighttime only—not morning—to address the makeup and dirt accumulated during the day.
If you have oily skin and the thought of using an oil-based cleanser is worrisome, don’t panic: Hogan states that the double cleansing process can actually benefit oily skin by removing excess oil and sebum that builds up throughout the day.
Do you need two different cleansers to double cleanse?
Double cleansing is most effective when combining the cleansing properties of both an oil-based and a water-based cleanser, meaning you will need two distinct cleansers to practice double cleansing.
How to double cleanse
1. Wash your hands
Anytime you touch your face, it’s crucial to start with clean hands. Before applying your oil-based cleanser, wash your hands thoroughly to avoid transferring bacteria to your face.
2. Start with a dry face
As the first step in double cleansing involves an oil-based cleanser, ensure your face is completely dry before you begin the process.
3. Wash with an oil-based cleanser
Gently work your oil-based cleanser into your skin, then rinse with water.
4. Wash with a water-based cleanser
After rinsing the oil-based cleanser off, apply the water-based cleanser to your skin. (Be sure your water-based cleanser is indeed water-based—Hogan noted that she has had patients who believed they were double cleansing correctly but mistakenly used a non-water-based cleanser as their second step, resulting in milia on their skin.)
Once you’ve cleansed with your water-based product, rinse again.
5. Pat dry with a clean towel
After concluding both cleansing steps, pat your skin dry with a clean towel—avoid rubbing! (It’s crucial that the towel is clean—drying with a dirty towel can reintroduce bacteria to your freshly cleansed skin).
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Jenna Piotrowicz, Editorial Assistant
Jenna began her role as an Editorial Assistant for The Everygirl in 2024. With her keen attention to detail, she supports the team in content creation, product and image sourcing, and works behind the scenes to assist The Everygirl in uploading and updating content.
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Is Double Cleansing Necessary? We Consulted a Dermatologist.
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