Product Types

Double Cleansing

Written by Reviewed by the SYNC editorial team Published Last reviewed Editorial standards

Double Cleansing — a two-step cleansing method that begins with an oil-based cleanser to dissolve makeup, sunscreen, and sebum, followed by a water-based cleanser to remove sweat, debris, and any remaining residue. The technique aims for a thorough yet balanced cleanse and is especially useful after wearing heavy makeup or SPF.

Key points

  • The first step uses an oil, balm, or micellar cleanser to break down oil-based impurities.
  • The second step uses a water-based cleanser to clear away water-based residue and finish the cleanse.
  • Double cleansing is particularly helpful in the evening for removing sunscreen and long-wear makeup.
  • It is generally not necessary in the morning, when a single gentle cleanse usually suffices.

Frequently asked

Do I need to double cleanse every day?

Double cleansing is most beneficial at night when removing SPF or makeup; in the morning a single gentle cleanse is typically enough.

Can double cleansing dry out my skin?

When done with gentle, well-formulated cleansers it should not, but using harsh or stripping products twice can compromise the moisture barrier.

Related topics

This is a foundational entry in the SYNC Skin Encyclopedia and is expanded over time. Educational information only — not medical advice.

Encyclopedia

Further reading

This entry was written and checked against the sources below. They are published by clinical and scientific bodies, they are listed most readable first, and each one opens in a new tab. They are background for the whole entry rather than footnotes to individual sentences.

  1. Face washing 101 American Academy of Dermatology Clinical guidance aad.org
  2. Skin Cleansing without or with Compromise: Soaps and Syndets PubMed Central Peer-reviewed, open access pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
  3. Cleansing Formulations That Respect Skin Barrier Integrity PubMed Central Peer-reviewed, open access pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
  4. Cleansing without compromise: the impact of cleansers on the skin barrier and the technology of mild cleansing PubMed Peer-reviewed (abstract) pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
  5. Soaps and cleansers DermNet NZ Clinical guidance dermnetnz.org
  6. Investigation of the Chemical Content and User Comments on Facial Cleansing Products PubMed Central Peer-reviewed, open access pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

SYNC does not publish medical advice. Nothing here replaces a consultation with a doctor or a pharmacist about your own skin.