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In Praise of Double Cleansing

by Sharon Lee Smith

I have always been disciplined with cleansing my skin from my teens onward, but I could never find a product that both removed all of my make-up and left my skin feeling clean but not tight. So when I heard about the Korean method of double cleansing, it sounded like the answer to my cleansing woes.

And it was! In fact, double cleansing completely changed my skin. 

Why double cleanse?

Double cleansing starts with an oil-based cleanser (usually a solid balm or liquid), to remove make-up and other skin oils that accumulate on skin during the day. The rationale is that oil binds with oil, and since most make-up is oil-based, an oil cleanser will remove it more effectively.

This is followed up with a water-based cleanser to remove any oil left behind from the first cleanse, as well as any dirt or pollutants left on skin. And wham! Your skin is make-up and dirt free, nourished, and most of all, clean!

Before you embark on your double cleansing journey, it is important to be thoughtful about the products you choose. Korean oil-based cleansers are formulated with plant-based oils that melt away stubborn make-up without clogging pores. In fact, those of us with oily or combination skin will appreciate how oil-based cleansers can actually help clear out pores. They are good for all skin-types, without harmful additives and chemicals.

Korean water-based cleansers contain gentle ingredients to cleanse without stripping skin’s natural protective barrier. For example, many Korean cleansers are formulated at a pH (acidity level) range of 4.7 to 5.5, which is optimal for skin health. Cleansers outside of this range, like those which promise “squeaky clean skin” can actually damage the skin barrier, leading to irritation and inflammation.

When to double cleanse

Double-cleansing is recommended at the beginning of your evening skincare routine, to literally remove a day's worth of oil and debris from your skin -- like make-up, sunscreen, dirt and pollution. If you've double cleansed the night before, all you need in the morning is a gentle water-based cleanser, or micellar water.

Is double cleansing really worth the effort?

Yes! It has literally changed my skin! It looks and feels healthier and more radiant. I also find that other products work better on my skin after a double cleanse, like toners, essences, serums and moisturizers, all of which contribute to an effective skincare routine. There is also a huge selfcare component for me - double cleansing it is a calming, nightly ritual that I look forward to!

Sharon Lee's favourite oil-based cleansers

For my skin type, which is normal, I like Pyunkang Yul's Deep Clear Cleansing Oil Balm because it melts nicely when applied to skin, removes every speck of makeup  and makes my skin feel very soft afterwards. I also like NEOGEN's Calming Cicatree Micellar Cleansing Oil which is great in the shower, rinses off cleanly and feels so soothing on skin. 

 

Sharon Lee's favourite water-based cleansers

   

How to choose a cleanser

  • In picking your oil and water-based cleansers, look for ones that are suited to your skin type, ie oily, combination, dry, sensitive or normal skin.
  • Look for natural ingredients, like plant-based oils and ingredients, a pH level notification of around 5.5 and cleansers that do not contain parabens, sulphates or mineral oils, which can all be harmful to skin.
  • For sensitive skin types, it is important to patch test first, and to steer clear of artificial fragrance and essential oils.
  • All the cleansers available at Sharon Lee’s Best identify the skin type and full ingredient list. 
  • Check out my full range of oil-based cleansers and water-based cleansers. 

Give double cleansing a try and let me know what you think!

Am pretty sure you won't ever go back .... !

 

 

 

 

 

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