Cleansing is the foundation of any effective skincare routine, especially for those of us who wear a full face of make-up and sunscreen (so that’s all of us, right?!) For the city-dwellers among us, it is not just essential for avoiding blemishes but also for removing bacteria and pollutants which can potentially accelerate ageing. Enter double-cleansing, which has become a bit of a buzzword recently, especially with the rise of the Korean 10-step skincare routine.
So what exactly is double-cleansing?
Put simply, it is cleansing twice; first with an oil-based cleanser or balm, prior to cleansing a second time with a water-based traditional cleanser, such as a cleansing gel or foam. That may sound rather excessive however the idea behind it makes sense; make-up, sunscreen and pore-clogging sebum are most effectively broken down and dissolved by oils, rather than detergents, as ‘like’ mixes with ‘like’. An oil or balm suitable for cleansing must be used to ensure that the oil emulsifies when it is ready to be rinsed off, and it should be massaged into dry skin in order to avoid it emulsifying too quickly to allow it to break down oils effectively. Once the grime has been loosened and broken down, the second cleanse can get to work on properly cleansing your pores of any residual bacteria, dead skin cells and surface debris. We recommend a foaming, gel or clay-based cleanser, gently massaged into the skin, and always rinsing with lukewarm water afterwards to avoid irritation.
Should you be oil-cleansing?
For the most part, absolutely. Although massaging oil into your skin may sound counter-intuitive if you are naturally oily and blemish-prone, it actually makes for a deeper, more effective cleanse. Not only does that lead to clear and radiant skin, it leaves the skin better prepared for absorbing any serums or skincare actives which follow. The dangers of over-cleansing are very real, however, and can lead to stripped and dehydrated skin, so we only recommend double-cleansing in the evenings. Those with rosacea-prone skin should also approach with caution, and the acne-prone should watch out for oils known to irritate and clog pores. Happy cleansing!
Grown Alchemist Gentle Gel Cleanser: Geranium Leaf, Bergamot & Rose-Bud
Formulated with a delicate blend of botanical extracts, this cleanser gently removes impurities without stripping the skin, allowing it to breathe freely leaving skin throughly cleansed, calm and soothed. Chamomile, bergamot and willow bark soothe and reduce the appearance of pores and age spots, cold pressed rose petals leave skin looking evenly toned, and aloe vera helps to create a soft and supple effect.
Mizon King Kong Cleansing Oil
Black chokeberries are packed with essential phyto-nutrients, vitamins and antioxidants. The chokeberry (also known as King’s berries) cleansing oil completely dissolves all traces of make-up and cleanses pores while leaving skin soft and moisturized thanks to an aromatic mix of essential oils. Powerful antioxidants help protect the skin from environmental factors and boost elasticity. Free of artificial colours, fragrances, parabens, benzophenone and alcohol, this generous bottle will last a long time as just a few pumps is all you need to melt away the impurities of the day.
Most suitable for dry to combination skin types.
NIOD Sanskrit Saponins
Sanskrit Saponins is a cleansing balm formulated with natural saponins (plant chemicals) derived from Ayurvedic plants which maintain the skin’s balance while deep-cleansing. Formulated with no purified or synthetic surfactants, sulphates, oils, or micellar technologies, this is a pH-balanced cleanser which targets all forms of blemishes and impurities. Skin is left radiant and pores appear smaller. Alcohol-free, oil-free, silicone-free and vegan.
Suitable for all skin types including dry, oily and sensitive.
