Between sweat, sunscreen, waterproof makeup and daily pollution, summer can leave your skin oily, sticky and grimy. The bad news: All that build-up can lead to breakouts and premature aging. Now for the good news: There’s an easy way to get your best cleanse without drying or stripping your skin. Enter double cleansing—your summer skin savior.
What is double cleansing?
Double cleansing is not just washing your face twice. It’s a two-step method that involves using two different types of cleansers to gently and thoroughly remove every trace of grime. Fun fact: Double cleansing originated in South Korea (where it’s been practiced for years) and spread across the globe as K-Beauty became more and more popular.
How to double cleanse:
Step 1: Use an oil-based cleanser (such as a cleansing oil or cleansing balm) or micellar water to remove makeup and sunscreen.
Pro tip: If you’re a makeup lover who prefers a full face, a cleansing oil or balm may be the best option because they do a great job of breaking down full-coverage foundation.
Step 2: Follow with a gentle face wash to remove any last traces of pollution or debris.
Pro tip: If you have normal or oily skin, try a gentle gel cleanser. If you have dry or dehydrated skin, stick to creamy formulas. Just make sure whatever you choose is sulfate-free. (Sulfates can disrupt your skin barrier, so they’re an ingredient you want to avoid, especially if you have sensitive skin.) Okay, now that we’re all clear on what a double cleansing routine is, here’s why it’s a skincare must-do in the summer
Why should you double cleanse in the summer?
We have 5 reasons why double cleansing is an essential summer skin ritual for every skin type.
Double cleansing benefits
1. Removes sunscreen more effectively
If you’ve ever slathered your face in sunscreen that contains zinc oxide, you’re probably well aware of how thick, sticky and tough-to-remove it can be. Using a cleansing balm, cleansing oil or micellar water as your first step dissolves sunscreen, so your face wash can do its job of removing pollution and environmental impurities.
2. Removes waterproof makeup
In the summer, it’s common to switch to waterproof makeup that can withstand humid summer days. To remove it, you need cleansing oil, balm or micellar water. These formulas work to “break” the bonds that help makeup pigments adhere to your skin. Once makeup is gone, you can follow up with your face wash and your skin will be thoroughly clean.
3. Removes pollution
If pollution and impurities are trapped underneath a layer of sunscreen or makeup, you won’t be able to remove it effectively, no matter what kind of face wash you use. Step 1 of your double cleanse removes sunscreen and makeup, so Step 2 can come in and whisk away daily grime and environmental pollutants.
4. Helps prevent acne and clogged pores
It almost goes without saying, but we wanted to point it out just in case: leaving makeup, sunscreen and grime on your skin creates a breeding ground for acne-causing bacteria. Double cleansing thoroughly removes the build-up that can lead to breakouts.
5. Helps prevent premature aging
This might sound like an exaggeration, but it’s actually true. Leaving dirt and daily pollution on your skin overnight can accelerate collagen breakdown and cause wrinkles, fine lines and sagging to occur faster. Double cleansing removes the gunk and promotes healthy, youthful-looking skin.
When should I double cleanse?
Do your double cleansing ritual in the evening, before the rest of your nighttime skincare ritual. There’s no need to double cleanse in the morning—you can simply use your normal face wash.
Combined with regular weekly LUXE+ Sonic Dermaplaning, a double cleansing routine preps your skin to fully absorb your skincare products and keeps you fresh-faced even during the hottest, stickiest summer weather.
