Are you one of the many people who've wondered if washing their face twice is a skincare secret or simply too much? Skincare trends can often feel like marketing hype, with new products and steps appearing every other week. But the truth is, double cleansing has been a cornerstone of Asian skincare routines for decades, and for good reason. It's not a new fad but a proven method for achieving truly clean, balanced skin.

In this guide, you’ll discover what double cleansing really is, why it works so well, who can benefit from it, and a step-by-step guide on how to do it properly. Get ready to uncover the secret to a cleaner, clearer complexion.

At its core, double cleansing is a two-step process: you use an oil-based cleanser first, followed by a water-based cleanser. It’s not about scrubbing your face twice with the same product. Instead, it’s about using two different formulas that work together to remove different types of impurities from your skin.

The first step, the oil cleanser, is designed to dissolve and lift away oil-based impurities. This includes makeup, sunscreen, excess sebum, and any environmental pollutants that have built up throughout the day.

The second step, the water-based cleanser, then removes any sweat, dirt, and leftover residue from the first cleanse, ensuring your skin is perfectly prepped for the next steps in your routine. This gentle, complementary approach ensures your skin is thoroughly clean without being stripped of its natural moisture.

The science behind double cleansing is simple: like dissolves like. Oil attracts oil. This is key because many of the things that clog your pores and sit on your skin—such as sebum, sunscreen, and foundation—are oil-soluble. They don't budge easily with just a water-based cleanser.

By using an oil cleanser first, you effectively dissolve these stubborn, oil-based impurities. This helps clear out clogged pores and prevents the breakouts that can be caused by leftover makeup and SPF. The second step with a water-based cleanser then washes away all the residue, leaving your skin feeling fresh and ready to absorb the nourishing serums and moisturisers that follow. When done correctly with gentle products, this process leaves your skin feeling exceptionally clean without stripping it dry.

This is one of the most common questions we hear, and the answer isn't a simple yes or no. The necessity of double cleansing depends on your lifestyle and skin type.

Is it necessary every day? Double cleansing is most beneficial as part of your evening routine, especially if you've been wearing makeup or SPF. In the morning, a simple water-based cleanser is usually enough since your skin has only accumulated sweat and some sebum overnight.

What if I don't wear makeup? Even if you don't wear a stitch of makeup, you'll still benefit from double cleansing. Sunscreen—especially water-resistant formulas—is designed to cling to your skin and can be difficult to fully remove with a single cleanse. Additionally, your skin produces natural oils (sebum) throughout the day, which can mix with pollution and lead to clogged pores.

Can it cause dryness? This is a valid concern, but it's a misconception. Double cleansing only leads to dryness if you're using harsh, stripping cleansers. The key is to choose gentle, nourishing formulas for both steps. A well-formulated oil cleanser and a non-foaming or low-foaming water-based cleanser will leave your skin feeling soft and balanced, not tight or dry.

What skin types benefit most? Oily, combination, and acne-prone skin types benefit immensely from double cleansing, as it helps to manage excess sebum and prevent breakouts. However, anyone who wears sunscreen or makeup daily can benefit from this thorough cleansing method.

Ready to try it for yourself? Follow these simple steps for a perfect cleanse.

1. Start with the oil cleanser. Dispense a small amount of an oil cleanser, like The Cocoon Rose Cleansing Oil or Ishizawa Lab Keana Rice Cleansing Oil, into your dry hands and gently massage it onto your dry face. Work it in with circular motions for 30–60 seconds, paying extra attention to areas with makeup or congestion. This step is about gentle massage, not harsh scrubbing.
2. Emulsify the oil. This is the most crucial step! Once you've massaged the oil in, wet your hands with lukewarm water and continue to massage your face. The oil will turn into a milky emulsion. This is called emulsification. It's this process that allows the oil to mix with water and be fully rinsed away, taking all the impurities with it. If you don't emulsify properly, the oil will sit on your skin and can clog your pores, leading to breakouts.
3. Rinse and follow with a water-based cleanser. Rinse your face thoroughly with lukewarm water until the milky residue is gone. Then, take a water-based cleanser, such as the EQQUALBERRY Purple Rice Pore Purifying Pack Cleanser, lather it up, and gently massage it over your face. This second step ensures all sweat and dirt are washed away.
4. Rinse and pat dry. Rinse your face once more with lukewarm water and gently pat your skin dry with a clean, soft towel. Your skin should now feel clean and refreshed, but not tight. You can follow with your toner, serum, and a hydrating cream like the Medicube Zero Pore One Day Cream to lock in hydration.

• Using overly harsh cleansers: The most common mistake is using a strong, stripping cleanser for either step. This can damage your skin's natural barrier.
• Rushing the process: Take your time! Spending at least 30 seconds on each step allows the cleansers to properly do their job.
• Skipping moisturiser: No matter how gentle your cleansers are, always follow up with a moisturiser to keep your skin hydrated and happy.
• Assuming it's only for heavy makeup wearers: As we’ve covered, double cleansing is a game-changer even if you only wear SPF or no products at all.

Double cleansing isn’t about complicating your routine; it’s about making sure your skin is truly clean and ready to receive all the hydration and active ingredients you apply next. By giving your skin the thorough cleanse it needs, you're setting it up for success.

Why not try this two-step method tonight? We're sure you'll notice the difference. To get started, check out our curated selection of gentle, effective oil and water-based cleansers at Unique Bunny.

What skincare step are you curious about next? Let us know in the comments below!