Why Double Cleansing Might Be the Missing Step in Your Skincare Routine
You've probably heard the term double cleansing on social media or from your esthetician, but what does it actually mean? And is it really worth the extra step?
At Carla Thomas Med Spa, double cleansing is one of the simplest skincare habits we recommend to many of our clients, especially those who wear sunscreen, makeup, or simply want to get the most out of their skincare routine.
A clean face isn't just about removing makeup. It's about creating the best possible foundation for healthy, glowing skin.
What Is Double Cleansing?
Double cleansing means washing your face twice at the end of the day using two different cleansers.
The first cleanse removes:
Sunscreen
Makeup
Excess oil
Sweat
Dirt
Environmental pollutants
The second cleanse actually cleans your skin by removing any remaining residue and impurities.
Think of it this way: the first cleanse takes everything off your skin, while the second cleanse actually cleans your skin.
Why Is Double Cleansing Important?
Throughout the day, your skin collects far more than you can see.
Even if you don't wear makeup, chances are you're wearing sunscreen. Add in oil, sweat, pollution, and everyday dirt, and a single cleanse may not remove everything.
When your skin is thoroughly cleansed before bed, your nighttime products are applied to a clean surface, allowing your serums, moisturizers, and facial oils to be better absorbed.
It's a small change that can make your skincare routine more effective.
Step One: Start with an Oil Cleanser
The first cleanse should be an oil-based cleanser.
Don't let the word "oil" scare you.
Oil cleansers work by dissolving other oil-based products like:
SPF
Foundation
Waterproof mascara
Long-wearing makeup
Excess sebum
Massage the cleanser onto dry skin before adding water. As it emulsifies, it lifts away makeup and sunscreen so they rinse away easily.
Step Two: Follow with a Water-Based Cleanser
After removing makeup and SPF, follow with your regular facial cleanser.
This second cleanse removes anything left behind and leaves your skin feeling fresh and clean without stripping away its natural moisture.
Your cleanser can finally do the job it was designed to do instead of fighting through layers of makeup.
When Should You Triple Cleanse?
For most people, double cleansing is plenty.
However, if you've worn a full face of makeup for a special event, you may benefit from a third cleanse.
This includes products like:
Foundation
Powder
Setting spray
Waterproof makeup
Long-wear formulas
These products are designed to stay put all day, so taking an extra minute to thoroughly cleanse your skin can help ensure everything is removed before bed.
Helpful Tools That Make Cleansing Easier
While you don't need any fancy devices, there are a few simple tools we love recommending to our clients.
Silicone Cleansing Brushes
Soft silicone cleansing brushes can help gently cleanse areas that often trap oil and debris, including:
Around the nose
Along the chin
Under the lower lip
Areas prone to blackheads or congestion
The flexible silicone bristles are easy to clean, antimicrobial, and gentle enough for daily use.
A CTMS Favorite: Clean Skin Club Clean Towels® XL
One of our favorite skincare swaps at Carla Thomas Med Spa is replacing your everyday face towel with Clean Skin Club Clean Towels® XL.
Unlike traditional towels, which can collect bacteria, detergent residue, and leftover makeup between washes, these ultra-soft disposable towels give you a fresh, clean towel every time you cleanse your face.
They're especially helpful for people with:
Acne-prone skin
Sensitive skin
A compromised skin barrier
Skin recovering from treatments like chemical peels or facials
Infused with aloe and glycerin, they're gentle on the skin and can even be used to remove makeup or wipe away your oil cleanser before your second cleanse.
👉 Shop our favorite Clean Skin Club Clean Towels® XL here:
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As an Amazon Associate, Carla Thomas Med Spa may earn a small commission from qualifying purchases at no additional cost to you. Thank you for supporting our small business!
Will Double Cleansing Help Acne?
Double cleansing isn't a treatment for acne, but it can be an excellent habit for anyone prone to clogged pores or congestion.
By thoroughly removing sunscreen, makeup, excess oil, and daily buildup each evening, you're giving your skin a clean foundation before applying your nighttime skincare products.
If you're struggling with persistent acne, recurring breakouts, or congested pores, our licensed estheticians can help you create a personalized treatment plan and recommend products that fit your skin's unique needs.
The Bottom Line
Double cleansing doesn't have to be complicated.
For most people, two cleanses at the end of the day are enough to remove sunscreen, makeup, and the buildup your skin collects throughout the day. If you've worn heavier makeup, adding a third cleanse can help ensure your skin is completely clean before bed.
Healthy skin starts with good habits, and double cleansing is one of the easiest ways to support the rest of your skincare routine.
Need Help Choosing the Right Cleanser?
Not every cleanser is right for every skin type.
Whether you're dealing with acne, dryness, sensitivity, or signs of aging, our team can recommend products that fit your skin and your goals.
At Carla Thomas Med Spa in La Grange, Illinois, we believe skincare should be personalized—not one-size-fits-all.
Book a facial or skincare consultation today, and let us help you build a routine that works for your skin.
