Double Cleansing: Is It Really Necessary?
Double cleansing has become a popular skincare ritual, but is it truly essential for healthy skin—or just another trend? To answer this, let’s look at where the practice comes from, what cleansing is actually meant to do, and how to determine whether double cleansing is right for your skin.
Where Did Double Cleansing Come From?
The practice is believed to have started in Japan, where geishas used oils to dissolve their heavy makeup, followed by a water-based cleanse to thoroughly refresh the skin. Later, Korean skincare popularized the two-step ritual worldwide. Today, the Western spa industry has adopted double cleansing as a way to prep skin for treatments and home routines.
What Is a Cleanser Really Meant to Do?
At its core, a cleanser’s job is to remove dirt, oil, pollutants, sunscreen, and makeup from the skin—without stripping its natural barrier. Over-cleansing, however, can compromise skin health, leading to dryness, irritation, and sensitivity.
Interestingly, many people already “double cleanse” without realizing it—using makeup remover wipes, micellar water, a foaming wash, and then sometimes a toner. This can be more than your skin actually needs.
Do You Need to Double Cleanse?
The answer depends on your skin type, lifestyle, and what cleanser you’re already using.
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Makeup & Sunscreen Wearers: Double cleansing may help if you wear long-wear foundation, heavy eye makeup, or daily sunscreen.
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Minimal Makeup or Light Sunscreen Users: A single, well-formulated cleanser is often enough.
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Sensitive or Dry Skin: Too many cleansing steps can worsen irritation.
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Gel or Foaming Cleanser Users: These formulas are already designed to deeply cleanse the skin. Because they can be more drying, there’s usually no need to double cleanse when using them.
This is where product choice matters. For example, if you’re using a milk or oil-based cleanser, Veologē’s Clarifying pH Toner can help sweep away any residue and restore balance—without requiring another harsh cleanse.
Recommended Products for Double Cleansing
If you’d like to try double cleansing, start with gentle, high-performing products that complement each other.
Step 1: Oil-Based Cleanse
Cold Pressed Cleansing Oil
Designed to lift away impurities, sunscreen, and makeup while keeping skin nourished.
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Key Benefits: Effortlessly removes makeup (even mascara) and restores moisture for a supple feel.
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Star Ingredients: Tamanu Seed Oil (promotes cell turnover, supports anti-aging) and Sea Buckthorn Oil (aids skin regeneration and provides UV defense).
Step 2: Water-Based Cleanse
Tea Tree Cleansing Gel
A refreshing, sulfate-free gel for a deep but gentle clean.
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Key Benefits: Refines skin texture and helps reduce acne or excess oil.
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Star Ingredients: Organic Rosehip Seed (boosts collagen, reduces premature aging) and Tea Tree Oil (purifies, refreshes, and combats breakouts).
The Importance of Listening to Your Skin
Cleansing should leave your skin feeling refreshed—not tight, dry, or squeaky. In my practice, I often see clients achieve more hydrated, calm, and resilient skin when they reduce unnecessary steps and stop over-cleansing. Sometimes less really is more.
Pay attention to how your skin feels afterward: soft and balanced means you’re on the right track; tight or irritated means it’s time to simplify.
✨ Key Takeaway: Double cleansing can be beneficial, especially if you wear heavy makeup or sunscreen, but it’s not universally necessary. If you’re using a gel or foaming cleanser, there’s no need to double cleanse since these formulas are already thorough (and can be drying if overused). What matters most is choosing the right products for your skin type and lifestyle—and supporting balance with simple, effective steps.