Double, Double, Oil and Bubble
Why Double Cleanse?
Double cleansing refers to the concept of using an oil-based cleanser followed by a water-based cleanser, ideally at night. The first cleanse, or oil cleanse, usually comes in the form of an oil or balm and contains ingredients to help the oil wash cleanly off the skin. Oils are usually lighter on the skin and more acne-friendly than balms. Because oil and water do not mix, it is necessary to remove oil-soluble debris like excess sebum, water resistant sunscreen, and makeup with an oil-based cleanser. Similarly, to get a fully effective cleanse and remove water-soluble debris like sweat, dirt and pollution, you need a water-based cleanser. Since water and oil repel each other, the only way to truly thoroughly cleanse the skin is to remove the oil-soluble debris and water-soluble debris individually, which is why the double cleanse is so essential for improving and maintaining skin health. The most noticeable changes after starting to double cleanse include cleaner pores and less congestion, reduced oiliness and shine, but also more hydration.
Cleanse… With an Oil?
Yes! Double cleansing can be especially good for those dealing with breakouts and oiliness. The oil cleanser breaks down other oils on the skin, including the sebum and lipids that can get trapped in the pores and cause congestion or inflammation. Most people are using some kind of cleanser in the shower, usually foam or water based, but using an oil cleanser is somewhat less common because it can be confusing or intimidating. An oil cleanser should be applied onto dry skin with dry hands, and then massage to pick up excess oils and finally rinse with water to wash those oils away without stripping the skin. In the case of our Break It Down Concentrated Enzyme Cleansing Oil, it contains emulsifiers to bind water to the oil so that it can be rinsed off clean with no residue. It also contains a powerful amount of enzyme to help the cleansing process along by dissolving dead skin and debris on the surface to clean out the pores more effectively.
Double the Results
The second half of the double cleanse includes a gel or water-based cleanser which is necessary to fully remove any remaining debris on the skin. Gel cleansers traditionally contain harsh sulfates to help them foam and wash away cleanly. Some cleanser may leave the skin feeling stripped, or squeaky clean. This is not a desirable result of cleansing. It means that the protective barrier has been completely removed and the skin will be more prone to sensitivity, dryness and foreign bacteria, which can also happen when the skin is over-exfoliated. It is best to use cleansers with more gentle surfactants like the ones we use in Loud and Clear Gentle Gel Cleanser. The gel cleanse is also a good opportunity to incorporate some gentle treatment steps like acne prevention because the ingredients will absorb but get washed off and therefore cause minimal sensitivity. Our gel cleanser has some of these gentle actives, like willow bark and niacinamide which both help to reduce inflammation and oiliness.
Making double cleansing a nightly ritual will help to improve your skin, while the self-massage helps your nervous system to slow down and relax. Some people will oil cleanse for a long time or even do it with gua sha and other massage techniques. Try incorporating a double cleanse into your routine, and see the results for yourself!