At the heart of Asian skincare rituals, where skin is treated with reverence and care, lies a game-changing practice: double cleansing. This twofold tradition has quietly made its way from Japanese and K-beauty circles into routines around the world. And with good reason: your skin deserves a deeper clean.
Today, let’s explore the steps and products involved, as well as how to determine if and when it’s right for you. Trust us, it’s simpler than it sounds, and the benefits can be, well, double.
Table of Contents
What is double cleansing?
Double cleansing is a two-step facial cleansing method that originated in Japan, a country known for its commitment to healthy, radiant skin. The idea is simple but powerful: different types of impurities require different kinds of cleansers.
That’s why double cleansing is split into two distinct—yet equally important—phases:
Step 1: oil-based cleanser
The first step involves applying an oil-based cleanser directly to dry skin. The reason? Oil dissolves oil. This includes the skin’s natural oils, plus makeup, sunscreen, and pollutants that build up throughout the day.
By massaging the oil gently into your face, you’re attracting and breaking down these oil-based impurities without stripping your skin. After massaging, emulsify the formula with a splash of water, then rinse.
Expert tip: Look for oil cleansers with nourishing ingredients like Mediterranean olive oil or sunflower seed oil to gently cleanse while hydrating.
Step 2: water-based cleanser
Next, reach for a water-based cleanser like a gel, foam, or mild exfoliating scrub. This step sweeps away water-based debris such as sweat, dirt, dead skin, and any lingering residue from step one.
This second cleanse ensures a clean, balanced canvas, ready to absorb the benefits of your next skincare steps.
Expert tip: Choose a formula that suits your skin type. Whether you need a purifying or exfoliating option, there’s a water-based cleanser to match.
Who should double cleanse?
Here’s the truth: sometimes, a single cleanse just doesn’t cut it. Whether you wear makeup, layer on sunscreen, or live in a city, your skin collects buildup that a simple wash may not fully remove.
That’s why double cleansing is ideal for:
- Makeup wearers
- Sunscreen users
- City dwellers
- Oily or acne-prone skin
- Anyone wanting a fresher, brighter complexion
Even if you don’t wear makeup, chances are you use sunscreen daily (right?) and face pollution, stress, and harsh weather often. Double cleansing benefits all skin types by removing this mix of oil- and water-based impurities.
Best of all? Using two gentle, pH-balanced formulas can help protect and support your skin barrier.
The (many) benefits of double cleansing
Curious about what this routine could do for your skin? Here are a few key double cleansing benefits:
- A radiant glow: Removing buildup helps reveal smoother, more luminous skin.
- Fewer imperfections: Deep cleansing can help keep pores clear and functioning at their best.
- A clear canvas: Clean skin is more receptive to serums, creams, and treatments.
- Balanced skin: With an intentional routine, even oily skin types may often notice less shine over time.
Whether you’re looking to double cleanse oily skin or sensitive skin, the key is choosing the right products for your needs. Let’s get started.
Our go-to double cleansing routine
Ready to try it? Here’s a simple double cleansing routine guide to get started:
First up: Essential Cleansing oil
It all starts here—a deep cleanse that also keeps skin comfortable. Essential Cleansing is an oil-to-milk facial cleanser that melts away up to 94% of makeup and sunscreen without leaving skin tight or dry.*
Formulated with Mediterranean olive oil, sunflower seed oil, and sclareolide, it hydrates and soothes while providing an antioxidant boost.
*After one use. Clinical study on 22 adults with all skin types using Essential Cleansing. Data on file. ISDIN Corp, 2025. Morristown, NJ.
Second step: Essential Scrub or Essential Purifier
Now it’s time to refine, balance, and indulge a bit more. Choose your second cleanser depending on how your skin is feeling:
Essential Scrub: A gentle exfoliating gel with olive seed particles to lift away dead skin (decreasing clogged pores by 98%*). With sage and lavender extracts, it also hydrates and calms.
Perfect for those days you need to smooth over texture.
*Non-comedogenicity study on 30 subjects (18-45 years old) with combination and oily skin, using Essential Scrub once daily for 28 days. Data on file. ISDIN Corp, Morristown, NJ. 2025.
Essential Purifier: A refreshing foaming cleanser that removes up to 91% of impurities.* Its cloud-soft texture purifies without drying—keeping your skin’s moisture barrier happy and healthy.
Ideal for when you want a spotless feeling that’s still calm and comfortable.
*Clinical study on 30 subjects (25-65 years old) with all skin types after a single use of Essential Purifier. Data on file. ISDIN Corp. Morristown, NJ. 2025.
Scrub or Purifier? There’s no wrong answer. Both have been tested on all skin types—choose your favorite or alternate between them as needed.
Should you double cleanse every day?
Short answer: It depends on the day.
Some nights, especially after wearing makeup, sunscreen, or spending time outdoors, double cleansing can be ideal. This nighttime double cleansing method ensures your skin is clear and primed for rest and repair.
In the morning, a gentle water-based cleanse is usually enough unless your skin feels particularly oily or congested.
So, is double cleansing necessary? Not every single day. But making it a regular part of your evening routine can help your skin look and, more importantly, feel its best.
Use lukewarm water, pat dry with a soft towel, and take your time. Use your cleansing step as a moment of self-care.
One more reminder
The takeaway on double cleansing pros and cons? Pros across the board—as long as you listen to your skin.
Consider it a way to connect with yourself, reset after a long day, and prepare for tomorrow with confidence. Take a moment to enjoy your cleansing ritual, and remember: healthy skin is beautiful skin, and it starts with a single (or double) step each day.
Behind the blog:
Article written and reviewed by:
Our namesake embodies the spirit of embracing life and all its wonder. As wellness journalists, we explore topics that invigorate the senses and keep curiosity alive. We believe that glowing skin is the result of a healthy body and mind. Weaving beauty with science, we aim to inspire you to live young at every age.
