Is double cleansing for your skin necessary?

So imagine this. You have been out for the whole day, attracting all kinds of bacteria and airborne pollution to your skin, and if they are not washed away properly, they could potentially lead to breakouts, allergies and gasp, premature ageing. The best way to stop this from happening? Double cleansing.

Even if you do not wear make-up, it might be worth considering to use more than just soap and water to properly cleanse your skin. 

person holding bubbles

 

What is double cleansing? 

The first round involves using a cleansing facial oil, balm, clay or micellar to break down surface grime - make up, sunscreen, dead sebum and dirt. This is followed by a second round of water-based cleansing using facial soap to wash off any remaining impurities or stubborn build up.

 

THE MAGIC FORMULA

Oil + Water = Well cleansed skin!

 

Image result for oil cleansing

Image credit: Stylecraze

 

Why is oil cleansing a necessary step? 

The quickest and most gentle way to cleanse is by using an oil-based cleanser that will not only lift off surface dirt but help to unclog pores at the same time. By massaging oil into your skin, it will help to dissolve your skin's natural oils that have hardened with impurities and found itself stuck in your pores.

Your skin will feel more nourished and detoxified than simply going with a traditional soap and detergent based facial cleanser.

To start, it is best to choose a non-comedogenic oil that is lightweight and preferably dry. You need the oil to cleanse but not clog your pores! Try to avoid heavy oils such as coconut, wheat germ or flaxseed. Those with blemish-prone skin should also avoid mineral oils which can worsen acne conditions.  

You can check out our non-comedogenic organic Safflower Cleansing Oil here

Woman washing face in front of mirror

Image credit: Getty Images

 

How long must you spend at each step? 

Depending on how thick your make up is, you should diligently wipe everything off with your cotton pad (try reusable pads or a facial towel instead to cut down one-time waste!) till there is no trace left. This might mean that you will need to repeat the process 3-4 times which will take a while, but hey, you did spend a long time putting it on too no? Another way is to go directly with your hands (our preferred method!), which works just as well!

Even if you do not wear make-up, this step is necessary to remove that layer of sunscreen, which actually sticks to your skin almost like a foundation. If you do not wear sunscreen, it is unacceptable! You must wear sunscreen to protect your skin from early ageing caused by those harmful UVA and UVB rays. 

 

A step by step guide

STEP 1

Dampen your hands and put 2-3 pumps of oil onto your palms, spreading it evenly onto your fingertips to prepare for application. Apply to your dry face, using your fingertips to gently massage the oil in circles into the skin for a minute. Repeat if necessary. Be careful not to tug at your skin. 

STEP 2

Without washing off the oil, continue your cleansing routine with a mild facial cleanser to provide a second round of deep cleansing. Wash everything off with water and pat your face dry with a soft facial towel. 

Alternative: You can also use a soft and warm washcloth to gently wipe away the oil. Be careful not to press too hard or scrub at your skin, as this can irritate the skin and cause premature fine lines and wrinkles.  

You can check out our range of organic facial bars here

grayscale photo of woman

 

What to expect after a double cleanse

Your skin should feel soft, supple and well balanced after the double cleanse. Just remember to keep your hands from your face after to avoid bringing any dirt to it! Depending on your skin type, you may not need to moisturize your face afterward.

When done properly and consistently, the double cleansing method can help to protect the skin from issues like excess oiliness, sensitivity and acne. If you have dry skin, doing a double cleanse with a facial oil will also prevent your skin from drying out.

 

Is there an adjustment period?

It is possible for you to go through an adjustment period, which can take anything from 1 to 4 weeks. Your skin is going through a deep detox and it needs some time to purge out the bad to start anew! Do note however that if you’re still seeing an increase in breakouts or redness, especially after you’ve been oil cleansing for a couple of weeks, you may need to change the oil or facial cleanser that you use, or stop oil cleansing altogether. Listen to your skin and always watch out for signs of discomfort. 


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