Should You Still Double Cleanse Even If You Don't Wear Makeup?

Recently, the double-cleansing technique has been growing in popularity among skincare enthusiasts and social media influencers. We've all noticed how tough it is to get through the stubborn layers of makeup, sweat, oil, dirt, sunscreen, and everything else that piles up on our skin throughout the day. In fact, it's rare that just one round of cleansing will get all of that residue off in one go. Often, we find ourselves using makeup wipes, micellar water, cotton pads, and going in with cleanser multiple times to get our skin bare again. So, in a way, most of us already practice double-cleansing. The good news? It can be so much simpler to do daily and a lot kinder on your skin.

Plus, double cleansing isn't just amazing for those who struggle with makeup removal every night. Using two cleansers is a good idea for everyone. We all live busy lives. At the end of the day, taking measures to achieve a deeper cleanse is worth it for clear and healthy skin.

Double cleansing, as the name suggests, is a two-step face-cleansing approach that originated from Korea's skincare practices.

The act of double-cleansing entails cleansing your skin twice during your routine to remove any and all impurities before following up with the rest of your products. Typically, double cleansing consists of two different types of cleanser — first, you go in with a cleansing balm or cleansing oil to melt away makeup, creams, sunscreen, and sweat and grime that may have built up over the course of the day. After, you wash your face again with a more traditional water-based cleanser to remove any residue left by the last cleanser and anything else the first step failed to remove.

Many people who participate in the trend opt for traditional K-Beauty skincare products and swear by their efficacy. However, it isn't hard to find good products from brands more accessible and affordable in our drugstores.

Thankfully, double-cleansing is not just for people who wear makeup. The benefits of double-cleansing can be enjoyed by everyone, no matter what your skin type is, or what your skin concerns are. This beauty trend has the potential to work wonders for all types of issues, including acne, blackheads, and dull complexions (via Healthline).

While a double-cleanse routine is an especially good idea for those who wear more than moisturizer and sunscreen, its benefits are suited to everyone. This method works wonders to remove the buildup of a day's hard work and waterproof makeup that may be tricky to cleanse off your face. So, think of this new routine as something improving your skin's health — like your nightly, rigorous scrub in the shower before putting on clean pajamas and jumping into bed. Your skin deserves the same thorough cleansing before piling on the rest of your skincare for the night.

But what exactly are the benefits of double cleansing your face? Should you listen to everyone jumping on the Korean skincare bandwagon? If you do, what should you expect to come from consistently practicing double-cleansing? These are all questions we've asked ourselves, too, so we searched for answers.

The results of double-cleansing vary from person to person, ranging from improving and brightening one's complexion to clearing acne and reducing oil production (via Healthline). For those with acne-prone skin, a thorough double-cleanse using gentle products clears the pores better than one stronger cleanser. Often, a cleanser that prides itself on being able to do a lot of residue removal work strips the skin of moisture and elasticity. 

If you wear makeup, chances are you experience clogged pores, which makes double-cleansing a must! As for people with dry or dull complexions, using two gentle cleansers brightens the skin. Still, make sure to follow up with extra-hydrating products straight after. Happy cleansing!