When it comes to cleansing our skin, we have many options to choose from. In this blog, we will look at the “double cleansing” trend and discuss how it can possibly benefit your skin.
There are several factors that should be considered when choosing a skin cleansing regimen. For many of us, it is the time of day. For others, it can be how simple the regimen is. But for most, we recommend following a routine that not only is feasible to do consistently, but also considers what your skin features are like.
What is Double Cleansing?
“Double cleansing” is indeed just what it sounds like. The is the practice of washing your face twice. The first time an oil-based cleanser (such as a micellar water) is used. After rinsing, a second washing with a gentle water-based cleanser should be used. We like CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser.
This practice is said to have originated in Korea several years ago. The hype has since been spread over the internet and social media to the United States and worldwide since.
Who Should Wash Twice?
But why would we want to wash our face twice? Well . . . that depends on your habits and your skin. The practice of cleansing your skin twice in a row can make a lot of sense to people who naturally have oily skin, or if you are someone who wears a lot of heavy makeup, for example an actor, television journalist, or social media star. Another example would be someone who simply wears a lot of makeup to conceal certain skin conditions or scarring.
The first wash with an oil-based cleanser is helpful to remove waterproof makeup, sunscreen, and pollution. The second wash with a gentle cleanser can help pick up anything that remains and add some hydration back into the skin. It is essential to avoid using any exfoliating cleansers such as salicylic acid or glycolic acid cleansers during the second step to prevent irritation.
Who Should Not Double Cleanse?
Generally, individuals with sensitive skin, those who are prone to dryness, or those with skin conditions such as rosacea and eczema, etc. should avoid the practice of double cleansing to prevent stripping their skin of natural oils and making their situation worse.
Our Recommendations
If you do not have sensitive skin or suffer from a skin condition on the face and want to practice double cleansing, feel free to try it out. Stick with a once daily routine at night and once you are done, immediately apply a ceramide-containing moisturizer to mitigate any dryness that may occur. Always err on the side of gentle and if you find the practice of double cleansing too drying, discontinue it.
How The Derm NP Can Help
If you have additional questions regarding this, or need help with your skin, please do not hesitate to schedule a consultation with our dermatology certified nurse practitioner.
At The Derm NP, we provide care for non-urgent dermatological conditions via telehealth visits, through which we strive to provide personalized care that considers your schedule. Contact us at (630) 233-9767 or thedermnp@thedermnp.com for an appointment.
