Do I need to double cleanse every day?

Most people benefit from double cleansing at night, especially if they wear sunscreen or makeup. In the morning, a single gentle cleanse is usually enough.

Can I use the same cleanser twice?

While you can use the same cleanser twice, the best results come from using two different types: an oil-based cleanser first, followed by a gel or cream-based one to target different impurities.

Is double cleansing good for acne-prone skin?

Yes, double cleansing can help reduce acne, blackheads, and congestion by thoroughly removing buildup and preventing clogged pores—especially when using non-comedogenic products.

Your Guide to Double Cleansing

Q: What is double cleansing?

Double cleansing is a two-step skincare method where you first use an oil-based cleanser to remove makeup, sunscreen, and oil-based debris, followed by a water-based cleanser to deeply clean the skin without stripping it.

Ashley Moody, Licensed Esthetician
May 4
3 min read

Want glowing, happy, clear skin? Double cleansing is one of the simplest ways to get there.

If your skin ever feels not-quite-clean even after washing, it might be time to upgrade your routine with double cleansing. "Double cleansing" is washing your face twice to thoroughly remove makeup, sunscreen, excess oil, and impurities without stripping your skin. Most people find double cleansing is most beneficial at night when you have makeup or sunscreen to remove. In the morning, you can skip the extra step and just wash your face with your regular cleanser. Start with an oil-based facial cleanser to melt away makeup, sunscreen, excess oil, and daily buildup. Follow with a gel or cream facial cleanser to remove sweat, impurities, and any residue left behind.

Karuna's oil cleanser is reccomended for double cleansing, available at Bisous Esthetics in Bastrop, Tx — Camellia Cleansing Oil with Prickly Pear + Mulberry is your go-to first cleanse—gentle, effective, and safe for all skin types.

Why Double Cleansing is Important:

Thoroughly removes impurities The first cleanse (usually with an oil-based cleanser) breaks down makeup, sunscreen, sebum, and pollutants. The second (water-based) cleanser removes sweat, dirt, and any remaining residue.
Prevents Clogged Pores & Breakouts: Think of it as a deep clean—double cleansing clears out the buildup that causes breakouts and blackheads.
Enhances Product Absorption: Double cleansing gives your skin a clean, balanced canvas so your serums and moisturizers can absorb better and work more effectively.
Supports Skin Barrier Health: Gentle and non-stripping when paired with pH-balanced, hydrating cleansers that cleanse and nourish at the same time.
Essential For Those Who Wear Makeup and Sunscreen. If you wear makeup daily, a single cleanse won’t be enough to thoroughly remove all makeup and impurities.

Can I Use the Same Cleanser for Double Cleansing?

Yes, but it’s not ideal. While you can use the same cleanser twice, the true benefit of double cleansing comes from using two different types of cleansers—each designed to target different types of impurities. An oil-based cleanser breaks down oil-based debris like makeup, sunscreen, and excess sebum, while a gel or cream cleanser removes water-based impurities like sweat and environmental residue. This two-step approach ensures a deeper, more effective cleanse without stripping the skin, leaving your complexion balanced, refreshed, and better prepared to absorb the rest of your skincare.

Facial Cleansers at Bisous Esthetics

Available at Bisous Esthetics, Karuna's pre-cleansing facial oil effectively removes impurities, doesn't strip your skin's barrier, and is great for nightly use on all skin types. This face cleanser doesn’t clog pores so you can use it without worries. Powerful enough to remove waterproof makeup without irritating the skin. This oil-based cleanser is non-comedogenic and gentle, making it wonderful for all skin types as a first cleanse in your routine.

Karuna Balancing Cleanser with snow mushroom and aloe – gentle, hydrating face wash for all skin types, ideal for second cleanse in a double cleansing routine. — Cleanse and nourish your skin with Karuna's Balancing cleanser, a gentle formula that won't strip your skin barrier.

Snow Mushroom and Aloe Vera: Hydrates, soothes, balances all skin types

Lavender: Calms aggravated skin, restores natural pH levels

Karuna's Balancing Cleanser is a gentle cleanser that creates a light, luxurious foam and effectively removes excess oils and all types of makeup, including stubborn eye makeup. Its unique formula is designed to purify and rejuvenate all skin types, even sensitive. Enriched with snow mushroom and aloe, it not only cleanses but also hydrates, soothes, and restores balance to the skin barrier, leaving it feeling perfectly nourished and never tight or dry.

For those with specific skin concerns—like acne-prone or aging skin, GlyMed Plus offers a range of medical-grade facial cleansers that pair beautifully with your first oil-based cleanse. Glymed's 10% Glycolic Cleanser is a powerful nighttime option for boosting cell turnover and refining texture and targeting concerns such as discoloration, while the Idyllic Cleanser with 3% Mandelic Acid is ideal for oily or combination skin, helping to exfoliate gently while balancing breakouts and oil production.