Double Cleansing: How to Do It Right

Double cleansing means washing your face in two steps: first with an oil- or balm-based cleanser, then with a water-based formula. This K-Beauty method removes makeup, sunscreen and sebum thoroughly without over-stressing the skin barrier. You might know the concept as the Dermalogica Double Cleanse or Sensai Double Cleansing. At NoticeMe you’ll find fitting K- and J-Beauty products like Banila Co, Heimish and COSRX to integrate the method into your routine.

Find more background here: What is double cleansing and how does it work?

Why double cleanse and when it makes sense

Double cleansing is especially useful whenever you wear lots of or waterproof makeup, richer sunscreen, or have visible buildup on the skin. Step 1 dissolves oil-based residues like sebum, foundation, lipstick and waterproof mascara. Step 2 removes water-soluble buildup, sweat and remaining particles so serums and creams can absorb better.

If you wear plenty of SPF, live in a city, or are prone to clogged pores, double cleansing offers clear benefits: fewer residues, less irritation from rubbing, and a more even skin texture. For drier or very sensitive skin, double cleansing is mainly useful in the evening; in the morning, a gentle water-based cleanser or lukewarm water often suffices. On very minimal days without makeup and with light SPF, a single cleanse can be enough. Alternatives like using the same mild cleanser twice are possible, but they rarely match the dissolving power of an oily first step.

Step-by-step: how to double cleanse

• Step 1 - Oil or balm: Apply with dry hands to dry skin. Massage for 30 to 60 seconds, over eyes and lips too if the product allows. Emulsify with a little water until it turns milky, then rinse thoroughly. Tip: Oil cleansers – step 1 of double cleansing.
• Step 2 - Water-based cleanser: Lather gel or foam with water and massage gently for 30 to 40 seconds. Focus on the T-zone and hairline. Rinse with lukewarm water and pat dry. Find suitable options: Water-based cleansers – step 2 of double cleansing.
• After: Optional toner or essence, then serum and cream. Use lukewarm water, avoid vigorous rubbing, and choose pH-mild formulas.

Product examples from brands available at NoticeMe: Banila Co Clean It Zero Cleansing Balm for step 1, Heimish All Clean Balm for different skin types, and COSRX Low pH Good Morning Gel Cleanser as a gentle step 2. Patch test new products, especially if your skin is sensitive.

Oil vs. water: what each step does

Oil- and balm-based cleansers bind fat-soluble residues, while water-based cleansers remove sweat, dirt and light remains. The combination cleans thoroughly without needing harsh surfactants or prolonged rubbing.

Phase	Task	Examples
Step 1 - Oil/Balm	Dissolves sebum, SPF, makeup, waterproof textures	Banila Co Clean It Zero, Heimish All Clean Balm
Step 2 - Water	Removes water-soluble residues and clarifies the skin	COSRX Low pH Good Morning Gel Cleanser, gentle foam or gel cleansers

Still unsure what to pick? See Facial cleansing – all categories.

The best cleanser choices by skin type

Oily or blemish-prone skin

Go for lightweight, well-emulsifying oils or balms that rinse cleanly. For step two, choose a pH-mild gel with gentle surfactants. Example combo: Heimish All Clean Balm plus COSRX Low pH Good Morning Gel Cleanser. Massage briefly yet thoroughly to help lift pore debris.

Discover Heimish: cleansing balms for double cleansing.

Dry skin

Choose a nourishing cleansing balm with protective lipids. For the second step, creamy or ultra-gentle gel cleansers are ideal. Look for hydrating ingredients. A fitting option: Banila Co Clean It Zero Nourishing as step 1, followed by a very gentle, non-drying cleanser.

More options: Banila Co Clean It Zero & other cleansing balms.

Sensitive skin

Prefer low-fragrance, minimally formulated cleansers. Shorten the massage time, avoid hot water and don’t rub. Banila Co Clean It Zero Purifying or the classic Heimish All Clean Balm are popular mild picks, combined with a very gentle, pH-balanced gel or milk cleanser.

Combination skin and daily SPF

Use a universal balm or a lightweight oil cleanser first, then a mild gel. If you wear heavy or waterproof makeup or a mineral SPF, extend step 1 by a few seconds. A balanced routine helps control T-zone shine without drying the cheeks.

FAQ about double cleansing

What exactly is double cleansing?

Double cleansing is a two-step method: first, an oil or balm removes fat-soluble substances like sebum, makeup and SPF. Then a water-based cleanser clears water-soluble residues. This cleanses thoroughly and gently. The concept is standard in K-Beauty and is popularised by brands such as Dermalogica (Double Cleanse) or Sensai.

Are there any downsides to double cleansing?

Over-cleansing or using harsh formulas can dry out skin, cause tightness or weaken the barrier. Avoid strong surfactants, hot water and prolonged rubbing. Choose pH-mild, low-fragrance formulas and adjust frequency to your routine. If you wear little makeup, an evening double cleanse or even a single very gentle cleanse may suffice.

How often should you double cleanse?

For most routines, an evening double cleanse is enough, especially with SPF or makeup. In the morning, a gentle water-based cleanser or lukewarm water often suffices. If your skin is dry or sensitive, reserve the method for days you need it. Aim for consistency without over-cleansing: better mild and regular than rare and harsh.