If the term ‘double cleansing’ has you thinking ‘Gosh, that sounds like a lot of time and work’, fret not. This is a super simple and straightforward way to cleanse the face and once you see the difference it can make to your skin, you’ll know it is totally worth it!
But what is double cleansing exactly?
Simply put, double cleansing is a two-step face cleansing method. Originating in Japan, the J-beauty method of double cleansing comprises the use of two different cleansers, an oil-based one followed by a water-based one. This results in skin being left clean, refreshed, and supple, ready for moisturizing.
What are the steps involved?
As the name suggests, it consists of only two steps—an oil cleanse and a foam cleanse.
Oil Cleanse
To begin double cleansing, first take a coin-sized amount of the oil cleanser such as the DHC Deep Cleansing Oil in your palm. Ensure that your palms are dry. Gently massage the oil cleanser all over your face. How does this cleansing oil work its magic? The oil-based cleanser binds with oil-based impurities, dissolving even water-resistant makeup, sebum and sunscreen. When rinsed with lukewarm water, the skin is left soft, clean and hydrated with no greasy residue whatsoever!
Foaming Cleanse
Once the first layer of oil and grime is removed, a water-based foaming cleanser like the DHC Face Wash Powder creates a foamy lather that pulls out the deeper layer of impurities from pores, including sweat and grit accumulated from pollution.
Why double cleanse in the first place?
If you tend to sleep with makeup on or forget to rinse your face before bed, that is a big no-no as clogged pores can cause acne breakouts, blemishes, dull skin, and even premature ageing. Cleansing in the morning is important too, as there’s a build-up of sebum on the skin overnight. This is where double cleansing comes in.
By getting rid of the oil-based make-up and impurities, the second water-based cleanser can really work its way into the skin, removing any leftover grime and sweat that’s accumulated during the day. The act of double cleansing not only gives a thorough cleanse, but also helps revive dull skin. Further, it ensures that the skin is prepped for other skin care products to follow and allows these to penetrate more effectively, leading to healthier, more radiant skin. Now, isn’t that something we want to hear!
So how did double cleansing originate?
Believe it or not, double cleansing traces its origins back to the time of geishas, respected female entertainers in Japan. Following their age-old traditions, Japanese women removed their heavy makeup by massaging emollient oils into their skin, washed this away, and then followed it up with a foaming cleanser. This is how the ancient Japanese tradition of double cleansing was born, which today forms an important part of J-beauty routines everywhere!
Yes! Double cleansing goes beyond the act of cleansing the skin. It’s also a great way to make some time for yourself and indulge in some self-care and self-love. It’s no wonder this centuries-old skin cleansing ritual has been embraced by new generations who often don’t find enough ‘me time’ with busy work and family schedules, long hours, business trips and more.