Why You Should Be Double Cleansing Every Night
Skincare expert Dr. Catharine Denning explains why the dual cleansing approach is best.
12 March 2020
Maebelle
All Credits: PA
Everyone knows that going to bed with your make-up on is the number one deadly skin sin, so washing your face is essential last thing at night.
But did you know that double cleansing could be even more effective when it comes to caring for your skin?
Dr. Catharine Denning, dermatologist ambassador for Japanese skincare brand Curél, says that we should all be using the two-step approach every night – but that doesn’t mean just using the same face wash twice.
Here, Denning explains everything you need to know about double cleansing…
What is double cleansing?
Double cleansing is a method of cleansing your face twice.
“Often – although not always – first with an oil-based or micellar cleanser, followed by a water-based cleanser that is designed for your skin type.”
What are the benefits of double cleansing for your skin?
“The benefit of double cleansing is that the first cleanser will break down and remove any make-up, dirt and excess oils, then the second cleanser will address your particular skin type or concern."
“This is particularly important if you live in a city. The second cleanser should have ingredients to hydrate, smooth or exfoliate and treat acne as well as give the skin its optimum pH for absorption of subsequent serum application.
How often should it be done?
“I suggest double cleansing only at night, when you actually have dirt and make-up to wash off, to make sure you’re not altering the natural balance of oils and microbes on your skin.
“If you strip the skin of too much of its natural oils, our body can respond by producing more oil that can lead to breakouts, irritation and accelerated ageing.”
Does double cleansing benefit certain skin types more than others?
“Double cleansing is suitable for all skin types, but this doesn’t mean it’s a one size fits all regimen.
“The types of cleaners used, and their ingredients should suit your specific skin type.”
Does double cleansing benefit certain skin types more than others?
“Double cleansing is suitable for all skin types, but this doesn’t mean it’s a one size fits all regimen.
“The types of cleaners used, and their ingredients should suit your specific skin type.”
What products should be used and how?
“The cleanser you use should be determined by your skin type. For sensitive or dry skin I generally recommend Curél’s range for dry, sensitive skin.
“Start by using their Makeup Cleansing Gel followed by their Foaming Facial Wash (available at Boots)."
“For acne prone skin I recommend ZO Skin Health Exfoliating Cleanser followed by their exfoliating polish.
“Their salicylic acid pads are amazing for treating and preventing blemishes too.
“For combination skin use Hylamide High-Efficiency Face Cleaner, followed by Skinceuticals Blemish + Age Cleanser (for blemish prone skin) or their Simply Clean (for oily but not blemish prone skin type).
“For mature skin, I recommend Hylamide High-Efficiency Face Cleaner followed by Alumier MD HydraBoost Cleanser.”
What steps should follow double cleansing?
“Overall, I tend to advise sticking to a single brand’s regime and the steps that are designed to complement each other.
“If you mix and match too many brands in your regime you can lose or even reverse the desired effects by mixing active ingredients or changing the pH that is optimal for that step to work in the skin properly.
“Each brand will have their own steps for curated and well researched reasons. If in doubt speak to a trusted skincare expert or dermatologist for a bespoke treatment plan designed specifically for you.”
