What double cleansing is
The method comes from East Asia and rests on simple chemistry: like dissolves like. Make-up, sunscreen filters and sebum are oily by nature, and water on its own does not catch them. That is why double cleansing splits the work in two.
First, an oil-based product dissolves everything oily. Then a water-based product rinses away all that is left, together with the emulsified oil. The result is clean skin with no harsh scrubbing and no need for strong detergents.
Step 1: removing make-up with an oil-based product
The first step is done on dry skin and with dry hands. Massage the oil or balm in for about a minute, so that it dissolves the make-up and the filters. Only then do you add a little water to create a milky emulsion, and rinse.
This step is not compulsory every day. It earns its place precisely when there is something on your face that water cannot rinse away on its own.
- You have worn foundation or heavy make-up
- You applied sun protection during the day
- Your skin is very oily after a long day
- You work in a dusty or smoky environment
- In the morning, after sleeping on a clean pillowcase
- A day without make-up and without SPF
- Your skin is already irritated and flaking
- You exfoliated that same evening
Step 2: a water-based cleansing foam
The second step rinses away the oil residue and the impurities it has dissolved. The mistake that undoes the whole method is reaching for a strong cleanser here. Your skin has already been through one cleanse, and the second one should be gentler, not harsher.
A soft mousse foam on damp skin is enough. Massage with circular movements, rinse with lukewarm water and pat dry. If your skin feels tight after the second step, the product was too strong.
Who double cleansing suits
The method is not universal. For some it is a solution, for others it is an unnecessary load on the skin.
| Skin type | Is it suitable | What to watch for |
|---|---|---|
| Oily and acne-prone | Yes | Keep the second step gentle, so that compensatory oiliness does not follow |
| Combination | Yes | Evenings only, when wearing make-up or SPF |
| Dry | With caution | Choose a balm rather than an oil, and hydrate straight afterwards |
| Sensitive | With caution | No fragranced oils, no rubbing, keep the massage short |
| Irritated, with a damaged barrier | Not for now | Go back to a single gentle wash until the skin settles |
How often to double cleanse your face
The answer is duller than you might expect: as often as there is something to remove. No more than that.
Common double cleansing mistakes
Most problems with the method do not come from the method itself, but from the way it is applied.
- Step one on a wet face: the oil does not dissolve well if your skin and hands are damp
- Too long a massage: one minute is enough, three minutes irritate
- A strong product at step two: it defeats the gentle approach
- Hot water: it strips the lipids faster than any cleanser
- Double cleansing in the morning: your skin has gathered nothing that calls for two steps
- An exfoliant straight afterwards: too much for one evening
Products for double cleansing: the foam as the second step
For the second step you want a product that rinses away without taking the protection with it. The Natural Cleansing Foam for Face with Lemon Balm and Geranium was created for exactly this role. It does not work as a make-up remover and makes no claim to: its place is after the make-up has come off, when the skin needs gentle but genuine cleansing.
Soothes and refreshes the skin, helping to even out your complexion after washing.
Regulates oiliness and provides antioxidant protection through the day.
Strengthens the skin's natural barrier and feeds the good bacteria living on it.
Hydrates, soothes and restores the skin after the stress factors of the day.
The pump doses 1 to 2 pumps for the whole face, and the mousse texture asks for no rubbing. The formula is suitable for every skin type, including sensitive and acne-prone skin.
THE SECOND STEP THAT DOES NOT DRY YOU OUT
A natural cleansing foam with herbal water of Melissa, Geranium, a prebiotic and Aloe Vera. It rinses away the residue after make-up removal and leaves the skin calm, with no tight feeling.
I generally have really sensitive skin, the kind that hardly tolerates anything. With InaEssentials products, I finally have everything sorted, no worries, no fuss, no bother. I'm eagerly waiting for the brand to expand into hair conditioner and intimate soaps. And the new face foam is...
Lovely product! Highly recommend it!
The foam is brilliant. It cleanses without drying out the skin, and I don't even have to put on cream afterwards. My skin stays soft as silk. It's the best on the market, hands down. I'm recommending it to all my friends and colleagues.
About the InaEssentials family
InaEssentials is a Bulgarian family producer with over 25 years of experience in organic farming and natural cosmetics made with rose oil, herbal waters and actives from our own plantations. Every product is created with care for the skin and with respect for nature.
Frequently asked questions
Important information
This article is informative in nature and does not replace a consultation with a doctor or a dermatologist. InaEssentials products are cosmetics, not medicines. In case of persistent redness, pain or a worsening skin condition, please see a specialist.
