VSBC Answers: Is double cleansing really necessary?

December 18, 2020

Hi friends!

VSBC Jen here to answer this week's top question in my DMs: 

Is double cleansing really necessary?

This is actually one of my favorite subjects, because we talk about it a lot at our Springfield skin clinic.  When we take clients through their first "getting to know you" journey with our customized facial experience, we address important tips, techniques, and products for their homecare regimen that will help maintain that glowy, healthy skin look long after they've left our comfy chair!

First of all, let's address the main question. Is double cleansing really necessary to effectively clean away all the oil, dirt, makeup and other yuck from the day? No.

Could it be really beneficial?  Well, the answer is.... it depends (doesn't it always?!)

Who is double-cleansing good for? What type of skin benefits from double cleansing?

Double cleansing can be beneficial for acne-prone or oily skin types.  The first cleansing is essentially used for breaking down excess sebum, dirt, and makeup, while the second cleanse wipes away residue left behind from the first cleanse and prepares the canvas for the penetration of your skin nourishment that follows with your toner, serums, lotions, potions, and other magic.

That's not to say that other skin types don't benefit from the double cleanse, but it's important to note that after trying it, if your skin feels dry or tight, it might just be too much of a good thing.  You don't want to strip away ALL the love from your skin.  That's sooooo 1980. 

Do I have to use an oil-based product as my first cleanse in a double cleanse?

You sure don't.  Contrary to popular belief, the first cleanser used in the double cleanse process does not HAVE to be oil based.  There is some science to the idea behind like-attracts-like and that an oil-based first step could be easier to breakdown makeup, but it can also be detrimental IF you don't effectively get all that cleansing oil-based product completely cleansed away in the 2nd step.  Why? Well, oil based products are a larger molecule. That's why oil-based products make you feel "greasy" in the first place - they sit on TOP of the skin (generally speaking), instead of soaking INTO the skin.  If you aren't diligent about gently (but effectively) getting those larger moleculed ingredients off the surface of your skin, then your smaller moleculed skin care actives are essentially locked out of the house after curfew.

The bottom line is, a double cleanse isn't necessary - but it's beneficial if you suffer from oily-skin or acne-prone skin.  And as far as the products, if you love the feel (and ease!) of using an oil-based product for your first cleanse, go for it - just make sure you're thorough with your second cleanse.  Just know that you can also opt for a gentle water-based formula and be just as effective in creating the perfect skin environment to soak up all the goodness you'll be throwing down in the rest of your routine. :)

Happy cleansing!

xo-

jen

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