Double Cleansing: The Beauty Ritual That Changes Everything
This publication is also available in: 
Français 
English (UK) 
Deutsch 
Italiano 
Español
You remove your makeup every night (well, I hope so!), but is that really enough to cleanse your skin deeply? The double cleansing method has become an essential step for achieving healthy, radiant, and flawless skin.
With the trend of skincare routines, some practices from elsewhere have risen to the level of must-haves. This is the case with double cleansing, a technique inspired by Japanese rituals that promises a more beautiful and luminous complexion through meticulous cleansing. Here’s a breakdown of a method that appeals to both beauty enthusiasts and dermatologists.
What is double cleansing?
As its name suggests, double cleansing involves cleansing your skin in two steps with two different techniques for a deep clean without irritating the skin. It consists of two phases: oil cleansing and water cleansing.
The first phase: oil cleansing
We aren’t necessarily accustomed to using cleansing oil in the West, unlike Japanese women. However, oil is much gentler on the skin than micellar water or cleansing milk and, most importantly, it is suitable for all skin types, even oily skin.
I’ve gotten into the habit of starting my cleansing routine by massaging my face with oil (organic if possible) because the fatty substances it contains help attract oily particles like pollution, sebum, sunscreen, or makeup. The residue impurities dissolve in water, leaving your skin clean and ready to move on to the second step: the aqueous solution.
The second phase: water cleansing
When you start this second phase, your skin is already well cleansed, and you only need to remove the last small impurities and oil residue. If you have oily skin, don’t worry: cleansing oil doesn’t leave a greasy film on your skin, and you can adopt double cleansing without fear.
Once the makeup is removed, choose a foaming gel or a water-based gel to finish. I recommend prioritizing healthy, organic if possible, and minimalist products, especially if you have sensitive skin.
Why adopt this method?
- To take care of yourself
Sometimes, we tend to view makeup removal as a mandatory and somewhat tedious step that we try to rush through in the evening. However, by changing our approach, this routine can become a genuine moment of well-being: taking the time to massage your face, appreciating yourself in front of the mirror, or even practicing a few minutes of face yoga, if that inspires you.
- Better absorption of skincare products
Residue-free skin = skin ready to absorb skincare products. The formula is simple: if your skin is perfectly clean, it will be better able to receive the benefits of your skincare, provided, of course, that you choose your serums and creams wisely. Once again, make sure to carefully check the composition of the products you apply to your skin.
- A clearer complexion
Double cleansing has a visible effect: it makes the skin clearer and more radiant by removing all impurities accumulated throughout the day.
My tips for successful double cleansing
- Take your time: massage your oil onto dry skin using circular movements to thoroughly dissolve impurities and promote circulation.
- Rinse with water between each step: this not only hydrates your face but also rinses away any remaining makeup or impurities.
- Match the products to your skin type: if you’re unsure of your skin type, there are online tests available to determine whether it is oily, normal, or sensitive.
Image credit: Fleur Kann/Unsplash
