The Magic of Double Cleansing: Why Oil-Based Cleansers Come First

If you’re serious about skincare, you've probably heard of the double cleansing method, a routine staple for achieving deeply clean, healthy skin. The idea is simple: use two different types of cleansers in sequence to thoroughly remove dirt, oil, makeup, and impurities without stripping your skin of its natural moisture.

In this post, I’ll break down the process of double cleansing, why oil-based cleansers are your first step, and why gentle cleansers should follow. I’ll also share why I love my go-to products—Sekkisei Treatment Cleansing Oil, Rejuvi K Facial Cleanser, and Rejuvi Cleansing Milk—and why you might want to skip foaming cleansers altogether.

What Is Double Cleansing?

Double cleansing is a two-step process:

1. Oil-based cleanser to dissolve makeup, sunscreen, and excess sebum.

2. Gentle water-based cleanser to wash away any remaining dirt, grime, and impurities.

By using two different cleansers, you ensure that your skin is thoroughly cleaned while still being gentle enough to maintain your skin’s natural barrier.

Step 1: Why Start with an Oil-Based Cleanser?

An oil-based cleanser is an absolute must for the first step of double cleansing. Here's why:

• Dissolves Makeup & Sunscreen: Makeup, especially waterproof formulas, and sunscreen are often oil-based. Trying to remove them with a water-based cleanser can be difficult, leaving residues that may clog pores. An oil-based cleanser effectively breaks down these oil-based products, making them easier to wash away.

• Balances Your Skin’s Natural Oils: Contrary to the misconception that oil will make your skin oily, an oil cleanser helps balance your skin. It binds to the excess sebum (oil) on your face and dissolves it without stripping your skin of its essential oils. This keeps your skin balanced and hydrated.

• Deep Clean Without Harsh Scrubbing: Oil-based cleansers remove dirt and impurities without aggressive rubbing, which can irritate the skin, especially if you're acne-prone or have sensitive skin.

  
  

My personal favorite is the Sekkisei Treatment Cleansing Oil. It is a gentle, herbal-infused cleanser that softens skin and enhances its natural glow.  It easily melts away makeup and sunscreen, leaving my skin soft and ready for the next step.

Step 2: Follow Up with a Gentle Cleanser

After using an oil-based cleanser to remove the surface layer of makeup, sunscreen, and oils, it’s time for a water-based, gentle cleanser. This second step ensures that any leftover grime, dead skin cells, or impurities are completely removed.

• Water-Based for Residue Removal: Gentle cleansers, especially those with hydrating ingredients, help remove the remaining dirt and sweat that may still be on your skin after the oil cleanse.

• Hydration and Protection: Using a gentle cleanser helps maintain your skin’s natural moisture balance, preventing irritation or dryness, which can happen with harsher cleansers.

  
  

I love switching between the Rejuvi K Facial Cleanser and the Rejuvi Cleansing Milk. Both are super gentle but effective at leaving my skin fresh and clean. The Rejuvi K Facial Cleanser is perfect for days when I need a deeper clean without the tight feeling, while the Cleansing Milk is my go-to for days when my skin feels dry or sensitive. It’s hydrating and soothes the skin with its creamy texture.

Why You Should Avoid Foaming Cleansers

Now, let’s talk about why you might want to steer clear of foaming cleansers, especially if you’re serious about maintaining healthy, hydrated skin.

• They Can Be Harsh: Foaming cleansers often contain strong surfactants (like sodium lauryl sulfate) that create that satisfying lather but can strip away your skin's natural oils. This may leave your skin feeling tight or dry after washing, which is not what you want, especially if you have dry, sensitive, or mature skin.

• Compromises Your Skin Barrier: Your skin has a natural protective barrier that keeps moisture in and irritants out. Foaming cleansers tend to be too alkaline, which can disrupt the skin’s natural pH balance and weaken this barrier, leading to irritation, redness, or breakouts.

• Can Cause Overproduction of Oil: When your skin feels stripped of its natural oils, it may overcompensate by producing even more oil, which can result in a vicious cycle of oily skin and breakouts.

Final Thoughts

Double cleansing with an oil-based cleanser followed by a gentle cleanser gives your skin the thorough yet nurturing care it needs to stay balanced and radiant. This method helps remove impurities while maintaining hydration and protecting your skin’s natural barrier, leaving you with a healthy, lasting glow.