• About
    • About Me
    • Press
  • Style
    • Spring
    • Summer
    • Fall
    • Winter
  • Beauty
    • Hair
    • Makeup
    • In My Bag
  • Travel
    • Do in Dallas
    • The Packing List
    • Travel Diaries
  • Ashley’s Picks
  • Shop my Instagram
  • Contact

The Teacher Diva

February 4, 2019

If You’re Not Double Cleansing Yet, Read This

I shared in this post that I double cleanse as part of my skincare routine, but have never really gone into detail about why and how. Well, it started a few years ago when I went to my dermatologist for acne. Of course we all hope for a miracle solution that will magically erase all our blemishes, but instead, my derm suggested something I hadn’t tried before: double cleansing at night. Let’s just say I was game to try anything at that point, and bottom line: it’s done wonders for my skin. It’s even become part of my nightly regimen.

Why the double cleanse, though? I know it probably sounds like 2x the work, and to be honest, it is, but I learned that part of controlling acne is keeping your skin clean. It has honestly helped me a ton with breakouts – even hormonal ones.

You might already be double cleansing since it’s been talked about a lot in the beauty world recently thanks to Korean Beauty (K-beauty basically founded the idea of double cleansing) becoming so popular. It’s actually been around for so long, Vogue is now talking about triple cleansing!

But if you’ve never tried it, or simply want to know more about what products I use in my routine, I put together this little guide for you to follow. Hope it helps and answers any questions you have about it!

xx
Ashley

Why Double Cleanse?

Dermatologist recommended

This is the number one reason I started double cleansing. When a highly skilled derm was telling me it would help, I knew I had to listen. Initially, it’s one more step to the routine, but as I mentioned, it’s so worth it! And honestly, it only adds on an extra 30 seconds or so, which isn’t a huge deal.

Helps get rid of every trace of makeup

If I leave my makeup on before going to bed, I’m almost guaranteed to wake up the next day with a blemish. Double cleansing gives me 100% confidence that every last trace of makeup is off and my skin won’t get irritated overnight. Plus, it helps get rid of things we can’t see, like pollution and chemicals in the air.

Has improved my skin

I don’t want to give the illusion that since I started double cleansing my skin is now perfect, because it’s not. However, I’ve seen a huge reduction in breakouts since adding a second cleanser to my routine. That alone is enough for me to keep going with it!

It allows me to give my skin what it needs

When I use just one cleanser, I sometimes feel like I’m not truly giving my skin what it needs. With double cleansing, I look at the first cleanse as taking my makeup off. With the second, I look at my skin and decide what it needs – an acne treatment, hydration, brightening, anti-aging love, etc. – and then reach for my second cleanser accordingly.

Favorite Cleansers and Products I Use to Remove Makeup

Because I’m skincare and beauty obsessed, I’ve tried a lot of cleansers and makeup removers over the years. I obviously don’t use all of these at once and I’ve switched things up now that I’m expecting. But if you’re looking for recommendations to start double cleansing yourself, these are some of my favorite products.

MAKEUP REMOVER

Each of these removes makeup really well. Depending on your skin’s needs and personal preference, I would pick one to start with. All of these can be applied to dry skin. Then use a wet Cleansing Muslin Cloth to wipe clean. 

Elemis Cleansing Blam – I like to use this makeup remover as my first step when I want to leave my skin with a punch of anti-aging. Its pro-collagen formula nourishes and softens my skin but also works on those pesky fine lines. It smells like the spa too — which is always a plus.

One Love Organics Cleansing Oil – I’m a big fan of this cleansing oil and also included it in my post on building a natural beauty regimen. Using an oil-based cleanser can take some time to get used to but it’s supposed to be less harsh than washing with regular face wash. I highly recommend giving it a try!

Bioderma Water – If you haven’t tried this product for removing your makeup, you’re definitely missing out! It’s gentle and non-drying, which can be hard to find in a makeup remover.

Cleansing Muslin Cloths – I mentioned these in a newsletter a little while back and a few times since —  I love these. I like using a muslin cloth when double cleansing because it gets off every trace of makeup and gently exfoliates my skin. This helps wash away any dead skin cells that can cause texture and blemishes. Make sure to be gentle though. If you use a Spin Brush for step two, I would suggest the silicon head or something gentle. Using both the muslin cloth and spin brush  could possibly irritate your skin if you have sensitive skin  

FACE CLEANSER

Indie Lee Brightening Cleanser – I’m using this cleanser in my routine right now and am loving it. I recently wrote about it and other natural, glow-boosting skincare products because I think it’s such a good option to have on-hand. I also love the idea of using as many clean products as possible while pregnant.

Cerave Cleanser – If you’re looking for a gentle, foaming cleanser, this is it. It’s affordable and works really well, which you just can’t beat.

Tula Cleanser  – If you’ve been reading this blog for a while, then you know I’m a big fan of Tula. Their products are amazing and this cleanser is no exception. If you want to give it a try, you can receive 20% off using code ASHLEYR at checkout.

Spin Brush – Last, but certainly not least, I have to mention my Vanity Planet Spin Brush. It works so well with any cleanser and gets every last drop of makeup off my face. I’d be lost without this little tool! I often get asked if this is as good as Clarisonic and the truth is they are very comparable. This doesn’t have the bells and whistles like the Clarisonic – doesn’t beep when you need to switch spots and it uses batteries vs a built in charger. But functionally speaking, it is 100% similar and would recommend this to anyone.

Like I mentioned above, if you are also using a muslin cloth to remove your makeup, be sure to use the sensitive brush head when you cleanse your face with a cleanser. It could possibly irritate your skin if you go to hard on the exfoliating. Personally, I use my spin brush 2-3 times a week or before a big event  

Let me know if you have any other questions. And I’d love to hear if you start double cleansing in your own routine!

 


Images by Mary Hafner



Related

  • 5 Products to Buy From the Colleen Rothschild Sale (25% off)5 Products to Buy From the Colleen Rothschild Sale (25% off)
  • How to Adjust Your Skincare Routine for Fall and WinterHow to Adjust Your Skincare Routine for Fall and Winter
  • My Dermatologist Recommend this At-Home Facial for Healthy Skin (and it works)My Dermatologist Recommend this At-Home Facial for Healthy Skin (and it works)
  • Is a Billie Razor Subscription Actually Worth It?Is a Billie Razor Subscription Actually Worth It?

20 Comments Filed Under: Beauty Talk

Comments

  1. Marta says

    February 4, 2019 at 12:25 pm

    I had no idea double cleansing was a thing because I always saw it as normal? Maybe I’m just crazy but to me it always made sense to use something to remove my makeup and then cleanse again but recently a family member took cosmetology classes and mentioned that everybody was very surprised when their teacher mentioned how necessary double cleansing is and I was surprised too to know not everyone does it haha

    Reply
    • Ashley says

      February 6, 2019 at 9:10 am

      Hi Marta,
      Wow, I know right? It has been great for my skin and I will continue to double cleanse! Thanks for your comment!
      XX, Ashley

      Reply
  2. Rin says

    February 4, 2019 at 7:17 pm

    I just started double cleansing and it is a serious game changer! I’ve been using the Clinique cleansing balm.

    xoxo Rin
    Ramblings with Rin

    Reply
    • Ashley says

      February 6, 2019 at 9:12 am

      Hi Rin,
      It really is a game changer isn’t it?! Clinique has some pretty amazing products! Glad you are loving the cleansing balm!
      Xo, Ashley

      Reply
  3. Ewa Macherowska says

    February 5, 2019 at 4:57 am

    Love this! x

    http://www.evdaily.blogspot.com

    Reply
    • Ashley says

      February 6, 2019 at 9:13 am

      Thanks so much Ewa!
      Xo, Ashley

      Reply
  4. Corey says

    February 5, 2019 at 5:15 am

    Great post! Does it matter what cleanser you use first vs second?

    Reply
    • Ashley Robertson says

      February 5, 2019 at 9:09 am

      Hey Corey!

      Thanks for your question. Yes, it does. You want to use a remover (ie: a cleansing oil, cleansing balm or that Bioderma water) to get the makeup off before you use your face wash. This will ensure that you have clean skin before applying your serums or moisturizer. Up to personal preference which remover you want to use, but I love the balm or the Bioderma water. Hope that helps! xx AR

      Reply
  5. Sara H. says

    February 5, 2019 at 9:31 am

    I’ve never heard of this in an “official” sense but like you mentioned, I just don’t feel like my skin is super clean after just one cleanser. I have been using a toner after I remove my makeup. But even then I don’t feel fully clean. So, long story short, I LOVE this idea!

    Reply
    • Ashley says

      February 6, 2019 at 9:14 am

      Hi Sara,
      So glad you love the idea! I find it to be a real game changer. Let me know how it goes for you!
      Xo, Ashley

      Reply
  6. Sayra Torres says

    April 16, 2019 at 11:50 am

    I started double cleansing last fall and do feel a difference in my skin! Also, before I use oils or any cleansers I remove my make up with a make up remover wipe so I don’t know if that counts for triple cleansing or not haha
    Love your recommendations and need to make a skincare purchase soon 😀

    Reply
    • Ashley says

      April 17, 2019 at 9:57 am

      Hi Sayra! So glad to hear you double cleanse and feel a difference! Thank you for your sweet words- so happy to hear that you enjoy my recommendations! xx

      Reply
  7. Rian James says

    April 22, 2020 at 12:59 pm

    Double Cleansing actually does wonders to the skin. Since I dont put makeup everyday I dont Double cleanse my face everyday, but whenever I get some makeup on my face I make sure to double cleanse my face to get rid of every trace of the products. I find my skin to be extra soft and smooth after double cleanse.

    Reply
  8. Sneh says

    October 23, 2020 at 5:00 am

    Such an interesting article on skin and skin products. This information is very helpful!

    Reply
  9. mirrorsbeauty says

    June 2, 2021 at 6:41 am

    Hello,

    Double cleansing really works good. You can see the perfect results when you clean your makeup.

    Reply
  10. Marilyn Guiyab says

    February 28, 2023 at 7:17 am

    Those are amazing words about facial cleansing we must listen to . As resident of Dubai living in harsh summer I always keep my facial skin hydrated

    Reply

Trackbacks

  1. How Double Cleansing Changed My Skin | The Teacher Diva: a Dallas Fashion Blog featuring Beauty & Lifestyle says:
    April 14, 2019 at 9:41 am

    […] broke it down a few months ago in this blog post and have mentioned it a few times in our newsletter, but I wanted to share a more detailed update […]

    Reply
  2. My Pregnancy Skincare Routine | The Teacher Diva: a Dallas Fashion Blog featuring Beauty & Lifestyle says:
    May 28, 2019 at 9:27 am

    […] double cleanse at night with a muslin cloth. I did a few blog posts on double cleansing here and here if you want to read […]

    Reply
  3. How I Organized My Makeup and Skincare Drawer | The Teacher Diva: a Dallas Fashion Blog featuring Beauty & Lifestyle says:
    March 9, 2020 at 6:07 pm

    […] use a muslin cloth at night to get off my makeup (you can read why here) and I like to have washcloths for when I use masks or need a thicker towel. My dermatologist told […]

    Reply
  4. What Order to Apply Your Skincare | Ashey Robertson says:
    May 14, 2020 at 8:57 am

    […] I love double-cleansing. If you’re not sure what this means, I wrote about it here and here, but the short version is that I have acne-prone skin and have found double cleansing […]

    Reply

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Topics

  • Beauty Talk
    • Hair
    • Makeup
    • In My Bag
  • Domestic Diva
    • For the Home
    • Food & Drink
  • Out & About
    • Travel Diaries
    • The Packing List
    • Do in Dallas
  • Style
    • My Looks
    • Maternity Outfits
  • The Teacher Diva
    • Wear To Work
    • Classroom
  • Fall Style Guide

THE SUMMER SHOP

Monthly Newsletter

SUMMER BEAUTY PICKS


POPULAR POSTS

HOW I GET LOOSE WAVES
AMAZON SWIMSUITS
6 WAYS TO STYLE A BLAZER WITH JEANS

© 2023 The Teacher Diva. All Rights Reserved. // Policies