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by Burt's Bees | 5 min read

The world of skin care is constantly evolving, but one trend that deserves the hype is the double cleansing ritual. No matter your skin type—from sensitive to oily—this method can help you achieve soft, clean and radiant skin. We break down all you need to know about double cleansing below.
UNDERSTANDING DOUBLE CLEANSING
What Is Double Cleansing?
Double cleansing is a two-step process that takes your regular face cleansing routine to the next level. It's all about ensuring your skin is truly clean and ready to absorb the benefits of your skin care products.
The two-step routine removes makeup, oil, and impurities without stripping skin. Start with an oil-based cleanser to remove oil and makeup and follow with a water-based one that will target your specific skin issues and remove any remaining pore clogging impurities for soft, refreshed skin!
One common misconception is that double cleansing isn’t great for oily skin. To borrow a phrase from chemistry, the key here is the "like dissolves like" principle. When you use an oil-based cleanser, it gently removes excess oil from your skin without triggering your body to produce even more oil. So even those with oily skin can benefit from double cleansing.
Why Double Cleansing Matters
With daily exposure to environmental pollutants and the daily buildup of makeup, sunscreen, dirt, oil and other skin care products, double cleansing counters the challenges your skin faces every day.
Double cleansing is important for skin care because it can also help to prevent breakouts and clogged pores. Oil-based makeup and sunscreen can be difficult to remove using a water-based cleanser alone, and leftover build-up on the skin can lead to breakouts and dullness. Starting with an oil-based cleanser can help break down stubborn impurities and make it easier for a water-based cleanser to remove them completely.

WHEN TO DOUBLE CLEANSE
Everyday Reset: If you wear makeup, sunscreen, or are in an area with more pollution or questionable air quality, double cleansing is a daily must to really remove all impurities.
Makeup Removal: Double cleansing is your go-to method for removing makeup thoroughly so nothing lingers that could clog pores.
Post-Workout Refresh: After an intense workout, your skin (and pores) can get clogged with sweat and dirt. A double cleanse helps make sure skin is clean and fresh.
HOW TO DOUBLE CLEANSE
Step 1: Start with an Oil-Based Cleanser
Gently massage the cleansing oil onto dry skin with dry hands, allowing it to break down makeup and impurities. Use lukewarm water to rinse off the oil, whisking away excess oil and impurities.
Step 2: Follow with a Water-Based Cleanser
Immediately massage cleanser onto wet skin. (Use one tailored to your skin’s needs.)
Rinse with lukewarm water, leaving your skin feeling soft and clean.
Step 3: Nourish & Moisturize
Now that your skin is clean and ready to absorb all the goodness from the rest of your skin care routine, follow with your favorite serum and moisturizer. Find the right moisturizer for you.

DOUBLE CLEANSE DUOS
Choosing the right cleanser for oil cleansing is crucial. Our Cleansing Oil is a fan favorite. It gently dissolves impurities and removes makeup without leaving an oily residue or stripping moisture from your skin. It’s also 100% natural origin, with coconut and argan oils that hydrate your skin as you cleanse. Coconut oil is rich in Vitamin E, while argan oil is packed with antioxidants. And, of course, it's formulated without parabens, phthalates, petrolatum, or SLS.
It's safe for all skin types, including sensitive and oily skin. Plus, it's dermatologist and ophthalmologist tested, making it great if you wear contact lenses. Our bottle is also made with 80% recycled plastic!
We made it easy and paired up the perfect double cleanse duos by skin type. Pick one from each column to create your clean skin dream team:
STEP 1 | STEP 2 | |
|---|---|---|
NORMAL SKIN | ||
DRY SKIN | ||
SENSITIVE SKIN | ||
ACNE PRONE (OILY SKIN) |
READY TO START DOUBLE CLEANSING?
You’ve seen it on your feed and now you’re a pro, ready to embrace the double cleansing trend. It's a gentle and effective way to cleanse skin without stripping it, so your skin looks radiant and healthy.
Whether you have sensitive skin or are dealing with excess oil, double cleansing can be your key to unlock your best skin yet. If you’re looking for a way to improve your skin care routine, double cleansing is a great option. Here are a few of our favorites below, straight from the #1 dermatologist recommended natural skin care brand.*
*based on a September 2021 NielsenIQ national survey of U.S. Dermatologists
