The Best Products For Double Cleansing, According To Your Skin Type
Double cleansing has many benefits, but the main one is that it will ensure every last scrap of dirt, makeup, and SPF is removed from your face. The name is relatively self-explanatory, but double cleansing essentially involves using an oil-based cleanser as your first step before going in with your second cleanser, which is usually cream or water-based. It's also a must-do for people who live in cities — per Glamour, cosmetic formulator Dr. Vanita Rattan explained that "pollution particles can seep into pores," which in turn "lead(s) to inflammation and cause rashes."
Double cleansing should be saved for your evening skincare routine. It's more rigorous than cleansing once, so it's important to find products that won't damage your skin but instead enhance it. There are different types of cleansers, such as oil-based cleansers and water-based cleansers, but the three main types to look for are cleansing balms, cleansing oils, and micellar water.
Whether you have dry, oily, combo, normal, acne-prone, sensitive, or mature skin, you can start your journey toward glowing skin with our top picks for balms, oils, and micellar waters below.
Dry skin can be tricky to navigate
If you find your skin is dry and flaky all year but especially during colder months, try the TATCHA Camellia Cleansing Oil. This gentle cleanser aims to replenish and hydrate dry skin to leave it feeling "softer than silk." Another great option for dry skin is the Avene XeraCalm A.D. Lipid-Replenishing Cleansing Oil. Proven to soothe itchy, sore skin, it has been approved by the National Eczema Association, so you know you're in good hands. Both of these cleansing oils will let your skin retain moisture while still removing makeup and dirt.
Oils can still be beneficial to oily skin
Contrary to popular belief, you shouldn't avoid using oils in your cleansing routine if you have oily skin. Speaking to Allure, Dr. Zeichner stated that cleansing oils "should not leave the skin feeling heavy or greasy." However, you might want to look for an oil that also gently exfoliates your skin, like the Hanskin PHA Pore Cleansing Oil. Additionally, micellar water is a good alternative if you are still wary of using oil directly on your skin. The Perricone MD No:Rinse Micellar Cleansing Treatment will balance out your skin and includes vitamins B3 and C.
Combination skin requires special care to nourish both the oily and dry parts
Combination skin is literally a combination of oily and dry skin, so it can be difficult to try and find a cleanser that isn't overly stripping nor too hydrating. Luckily, the Banila Co Clean It Zero Cleansing Balm hits the sweet spot. The solid balm texture transforms into an oil-like consistency once mixed with water and is designed to shift even waterproof makeup. Plus, the zero balance technology ensures your skin will be left clean and smooth. It also comes with a mini spatula to make sure you scoop the perfect amount each time.
This cleansing oil is ideal for normal skin
If you're lucky enough to have skin with no overt oiliness or dryness, you probably have what's classified as normal skin. If you don't need to worry about balancing things out as much, the Peach & Lily Ginger Melt Oil Cleanser is a solid choice. Vegan, gluten, and cruelty-free, it contains ginger (as you may have guessed by the name), pineapple, papaya, and sunflower oil amongst other active ingredients. Ginger is rich in antioxidants, whereas pineapple and papaya clarify, and sunflower oil soothes for a wholly pleasant first step in your double cleansing routine.
Acne-prone skin needs simple products to prevent irritation
Prone to acne? Don't reach for overly stripping products, as they will only harm your skin in the long term. A simpler routine is best for acne-prone skin, as using too many products can make the situation worse. The La Roche-Posay Effaclar Micellar Water is a perfect choice for oily acne-prone skin, as it is specifically targeted toward clearing and hydrating oily skin. If you have dry acne-prone skin, try The Inkey List Oat Cleansing Balm, which will soothe the redness and irritation that often comes with this type of skin.
Those with sensitive skin should look for a cleanser that won't compromise their skin barrier
It can be tough to find a product that's as effective as it is gentle on sensitive skin. Esthetician Rachael Gallo recommends using a cleansing balm rather than an oil, as many balms are gentler on the skin, via Camille Styles. The CeraVe Makeup Removing Cleansing Balm, which combines the "comfort and convenience of a cleansing cream" with the benefits of a balm, will prep your skin perfectly for your second cleanser. Moreover, the French brand BIODERMA and its Sensibio H2O Micellar Water is a cult favorite in the beauty world for a reason. It will banish your makeup while keeping your skin barrier intact.
Mature skin contains less oil and needs a nourishing cleansing formula
Mature skin does not have as much oil, so it can feel drier to the touch. If you want to restore moisture to your skin, a cleansing balm is the better option. Cleansing oils are excellent for removing makeup but aren't as moisturizing as balms. One of the best balms for mature skin is the Elemis Pro-Collagen Cleansing Balm. This oil-free balm contains nine essential oils, including eucalyptus and chamomile to soothe and soften, whereas the waxes included such as rose and mimosa will hydrate and nourish.