Taking your makeup off at the end of the day can feel daunting, especially if you love a heavy, full-glam look like we do. We all want it off as quickly as possible, but sometimes the fastest shortcut isn’t the best one for your skin. If you're only washing your face once with a standard makeup remover or face cleanser, makeup is more likely to stay trapped on your skin. That's why making a double cleanse part of your evening skincare routine is a non-negotiable.
What originally started in Korea as a popular skincare trend has taken the beauty world by storm. Today, it's an essential step in every makeup lover's evening routine.
At P.Louise, we have every type of makeup remover and cleanser you could possibly need, so you're never short of options. Whether you need an ultra-gentle formula for sensitive skin or a hard-working powerhouse to breakdown waterproof mascara and high-performance setting sprays, we've got you covered.
🫧 What Is Double Cleansing?
Double cleansing is exactly what it sounds like: the routine of cleansing your face twice using an oil-based cleanser first, followed by a water-based cleanser. It's typically done at the end of the day to wash away makeup, daily grime, and SPF.
This thorough two-step routine ensures your face is cleansed deeply, removing every last trace of product to help prevent stubborn breakouts and congestion.
The main rule to remember is that like attracts like. Oil-based cleansers bind to other oil particles and effortlessly dissolve sebum, cosmetic silicones, and water-resistant SPF, while water-based cleansers sweep away sweat, dirt, and environmental pollutants.
📝 How To Double Cleanse
Double cleansing is a quick, simple step in your evening routine that ensures build-up from the day is completely removed, creating a clean canvas for the rest of your skincare treatments.
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Step 1: Melt with an oil-based cleanser
Apply your oil-based cleanser or balm directly onto dry skin. Gently massage it in circular motions to break down makeup, heavy eye bases, and SPF.
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Step 2: Wipe and rinse
Gently remove the dissolved makeup and oil using a damp cloth, reusable cleansing pad, or a makeup wipe.
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Step 3: Deep clean with a water-based cleanser
Apply your water-based cleanser to damp skin. Massage it thoroughly into the skin to clean deep inside the pores and wash away any remaining residue.
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Step 4: Rinse and pat dry
Rinse your face completely with lukewarm water and gently pat dry with a clean towel.
✨ The Benefits of Double Cleansing
While a double cleanse might take a few extra minutes in your evening routine, the pay-off is worth it. Removing heavy glam can be tricky, but this method makes it effortless while delivering incredible long-term benefits:
- Reduces breakouts, congestion, and blackheads
- Melts away heavy, high-performance, and water-resistant makeup with ease
- Unclogs pores by deeply lifting away trapped cosmetics and sunscreen
- Prevents harsh rubbing or tugging on delicate skin
- Clears away pollution, free radicals, and environmental stressors
- Allows follow-up skincare products to penetrate deeply and work more effectively
- Leaves the complexion looking beautifully fresh, radiant, and clean
A single wash isn't effective enough to cut through long-wear mascaras, high-performance eye bases, and heavy setting sprays. An oil-cleanser is an essential first step because it chemically binds to and dismantles long-wear polymers without needing excessive scrubbing that can irritate the skin.
💡 P.Louise Pro Tip: For those who wear heavy makeup every day, let your cleansing balm or oil rest on your face for a full minute before massaging. This gives the formula enough time to break down stubborn formulas, letting the product do all the heavy lifting for you!
🕘 When To Double Cleanse
Double cleansing is all about giving the skin a thorough reset, making it ideal as the first step of your evening skincare routine. It's especially essential after a busy day out in the elements or whenever you're wearing a full face of makeup.
However, a double cleanse isn't always necessary if you have spent the day inside completely bare-faced without any products or SPF on your skin.
❓ Which Products to Use
The best routine depends entirely on your skin type and the type of makeup you are wearing. Here is how to choose your perfect P.Louise lineup:
Oil-Based Cleansers
Cleansing Balms: Our rich cleansing balm features a luxurious, solid texture that transforms into a silky oil. It is perfect for heavy makeup wearers because it melts down cosmetic silicones, lash glues, and stubborn SPF. These formulas are highly moisturising, making them ideal for normal, dry, and sensitive skin types.
Liquid Cleansing Oils: Our Olive & Camellia Seed Cleansing Oil is exceptionally lightweight and fluid. It is excellent for lifting lighter makeup looks and effortlessly breaking down excess sebum without leaving a heavy residue.
💡 P.Louise Pro-Tip: To remove false eyelashes seamlessly, apply our Milk It Melt Milky Eye Makeup Remover directly along the lash line. Let it rest for a few moments to safely dissolve the lash glue so your falsies slide right off without pulling your natural lashes.
Water-Based Cleansers
Micellar Water: This lightweight option contains micelles—tiny cleansing molecules that act like magnets to lift away residual dirt and oil. It's incredibly gentle, making it a fantastic second-step option for all skin types. Simply pop it on a cotton pad and swipe across the skin.
Gel & Foaming Cleansers: For a deeper lather, choose a targeted wash that addresses your specific skin concerns. If you have dry skin, opt for a formula packed with Hyaluronic Acid to lock in hydration. For oily or acne-prone skin, look for Salicylic Acid to clarify the pores. If your skin is looking a little dull, reach for Vitamin C to brighten and protect.
💆♀️ Follow Up With Your Usual Skincare Routine
Once your skin is flawlessly clean, it's ready to absorb the active ingredients in the rest of your routine. For that ultra-radiant, glass-like skin, follow up with our Glass Glow Skincare Trio, featuring our Probiotic Glow Serum alongside our Collagen & Vegan PDRN Toner Pads and Face Cream. If your skin is craving deep nourishment and recovery, reach for our Skin Barrier Repair Set to lock in a dewy, healthy moisture barrier.