Double cleansing

Double cleansing has become quite a thing in the blogging world of late. The principle behind it is that the first cleanse removes make-up and SPF, whilst the second cleanse removes the day’s grime. We all know that we should remove our make-up before bed, but the focus on removing SPF was new to me - did you know that it can cling to the skin even after washing your face? 

I have to admit that I was initially loathe to add another step into my routine. Like so many women I’m time poor and impatient at the end of a long day. However, I wear make-up most days and SPF every day, and I was increasingly finding make-up on my clean white towels after using my preferred face wash. I figured the extra time it takes - a minute tops - is worth it. After all, what’s the point of rubbing expensive serums and moisturisers into dirty skin? 

I’m a big fan of the Superfacialist range from skincare specialist Una Brennan. The two standout products which form the basis of my current cleansing routine are the Vitamin C Skin Renew Cleansing Oil and the Rose Hydrate Calming Creamy Cleanser. Both outperform far pricier offerings on the market, removing even stubborn eye make-up and leaving skin feeling nourished, hydrated, and most importantly, really well cleansed. 

If you’ve got oily skin you might think this method isn’t for you, but read on anyway. The theory goes that like attracts like, so using an oil-based cleanser can actually be the most effective way of cleansing oily skin. Those with dry and normal skin can wave goodbye to tightness after cleansing too, so its win-win.

One cleanse is sufficient in the morning - I use the Rose Hydrate Calming Creamy Cleanser - but it’s in the evening when double cleansing comes into its own. 

Cleanse one: Oil cleanser

• Start by applying a small amount of the Vitamin C Skin Renew Cleansing Oil on to dry skin, focussing on the face and eyes, moving downwards to include your neck. If pouring straight from the bottle, you’ll need a decent glug or enough to give you good slip. My only gripe with this product is the impractical packaging - why hasn’t it got a pump applicator!? I’ve remedied this by using a (thoroughly washed out) pump from an old bottle of hand-wash which fits perfectly. Two pumps is plenty. 
• The key thing at this stage is to massage the oil in really well to dislodge everything. I even use it around my sensitive eyes without experiencing any irritation. Pay particular attention to the hairline to avoid any grubby tide marks.
• I then go in with a couple of splashes of running water. It doesn’t emulsify per se, but there’s a noticeable shift in texture.
• Next, begin wiping away the oil with a hot flannel or muslin cloth. This step is essential because water won’t remove the oil on its own. Without it you’ll be left with an oily film on your skin. 
• Repeat until all the oil is removed, rinsing the cloth frequently. Dry your face with a clean towel.

Cleanse two: Cream cleanser

• Take a 50p sized blob of the Rose Hydrate Calming Creamy Cleanser and massage it into your face, neck and around the eyes. Use the well rinsed cloth to remove all traces of the cream.

And that’s it. The extra step takes virtually no time, but skin really does feel better for it. I no longer find make-up on my white towels and haven’t had a major breakout since starting this routine a few months ago. 

Of course, you could just use the cream cleanser twice or replace both with your favourite products - the principle of cleansing twice is still the same whichever products you use. 

What do you think: Do you double cleanse already? Will you be giving it a go? Do you have oily skin and are willing to try an oil cleanser? Let me know!

x