Why Double Cleanse?

That foundation you think is breaking you out may not actually be to blame. If you don't double cleanse, chances are you're not getting all of it off. Today's cosmetics are formulated to be waterproof and long-lasting - yet we expect a simple one-step cream or gel cleanser to remove it all. Not going to happen.

Since switching to double cleansing, I've noticed a substantial improvement in my skin clarity and tone. Pores are smaller, blackheads are fewer, moisturiser is absorbed faster, and my skin is calmer in the mornings for having enjoyed a night completely free of makeup.

When should you double cleanse?
If you use waterproof, or long-lasting makeup like Revlon Colorstay Foundation, you should be double cleansing every night before going to bed. If not, it's a good idea to double cleanse on alternate days, just to dislodge any gunk that may have built up around your oily pores. You don't need to double cleanse in the morning.

How to double cleanse
Ideally, double cleansing should be performed with an oil-based cleanser, followed by a water-based gel or cream cleanser. Oil-based cleansers include Japanese cleansing oils like those by Shu Uemura, DHC, Kosé, and Kanebo, oil-gel cleansers like the ones by Clarins and L'Oreal, or even basic cold cream.

1. With clean, dry hands, massage the oil-based cleanser into your face. Take your time with this. Use fingertips to work it into your skin, and lashline completely dislodging all makeup. You may even find clogged pores being dislodged with this method. Take at least 30 seconds.
   
2. Wet hands with warm water, and massage moisture into your face. The oil cleanser should now emulsify. If you're using cold cream, skip this step and tissue off the cream instead.
   
3. Rinse face thoroughly.
   
4. Now massage the cream or gel cleanser into your face. This doesn't have to be as long, but massaging's good for your circulation. I like to use a mild daily exfoliant at this step. If you have drier, or more sensitive skin,use a gentle cleanser instead.
   
5. Pat dry, your skin should be glowing from the massage and when you tone later your cotton pad should stay clean.
   

If you're not a fan of waterproof makeup, dislike oil-based cleansers, or simply don't want to invest in an additional cleanser. You can still double cleanse with only one cleanser.

1. Massage your cleanser with clean dry hands on your face. Again, take 30 seconds with this. One reason why facials work so well is the time they take to massage the cleansing products into your face.
   
2. Wet hands with warm water, and massage your face with your warm hands until the cleanser has completely foamed up.
3. Rinse thoroughly.
4. Wash again with the same cleanser, just to make sure your face is squeaky clean.
   
5. Pat dry.