Last updated on: December 31, 2025
If you’ve spent any time on TikTok or Instagram lately, you’ve probably seen people talking about double cleansing. At first, I thought it was just another trend that would disappear in a few weeks. But after watching girl after girl rave about how it changed their skin, I finally caved. I wanted to know if washing my face twice would really make a difference… or if it was just one more step to add to my already long nighttime routine.
Spoiler: my skin has never felt this clean, soft, or glowy.
But before I tell you exactly what happened, let’s start with what double cleansing is and why it’s actually worth trying — especially if you want clearer, smoother, healthier-looking skin.
What Is Double Cleansing, and Why Is Everyone Obsessed With It?
Double cleansing is pretty much what it sounds like: washing your face in two steps.
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Step 1: An oil-based cleanser
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Step 2: A water-based cleanser
Now, I used to think using oil on my skin — especially on my nose where it gets oily — was a bad idea. But here’s what I learned: oil dissolves oil. That means the first cleanser removes sunscreen, makeup, mascara, sweat, and all the dirt your skin collects during the day.
The second cleanser then washes away anything that’s left, giving your skin a true deep clean without stripping it.
It’s especially helpful if:
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You wear makeup
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You use sunscreen daily (which we all should)
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Your pores get clogged
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You get oily around the T-zone
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You live in a city with pollution
Basically… it’s great for almost everyone.
Why I Decided to Try It
Before double cleansing, my skin always felt like something was still sitting on it even after washing. Maybe you know that feeling too — that little bit of mascara stuck under your eyes, or the sunscreen you swear is still there.
My main problems were:
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Dull-looking skin
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Clogged pores around my nose
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Makeup never fully coming off
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Occasional breakouts
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Midday shine
I wanted smoother skin. Clearer pores. A natural glow without piling on products.
So I told myself: “Okay, let’s try double cleansing for one week and see if it’s really worth the hype.”
How I Did It: My Double Cleansing Routine
Step One: The Oil Cleanser
I used an oil cleanser that felt soft and warm as I rubbed it into my skin. I gently massaged it for about 45 seconds. That alone felt like a mini self-care moment.
Almost immediately, I noticed my mascara melting off. My foundation lifted. Even my waterproof eyeliner came off without any pulling or rubbing. It honestly shocked me how easy it was.
Step Two: The Water-Based Cleanser
After rinsing off the oil, I used a gentle gel cleanser. This second wash didn’t feel harsh or drying — it just made everything feel fresh. It took off whatever leftover dirt and makeup the oil didn’t catch.
When I dried my face with a soft towel, I couldn’t believe how clean my skin felt. Not tight. Not dry. Just… clean in a way I hadn’t felt before.
The First Few Days: Small Changes I Didn’t Expect
Day 1–3
The first thing I noticed was how soft my skin felt the next morning. My usual dry patches didn’t feel scratchy, and my forehead didn’t look shiny by lunchtime.
By day three:
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My pores looked a little smaller
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My skin felt more balanced
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I wasn’t getting that greasy feeling by noon
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Makeup went on smoother
It wasn’t a dramatic change, but it was definitely something I could feel with my fingertips.
The Full Week: Real Results That Made Me Keep Going
By day seven, I actually said out loud, “Wow, this is working.”
Here’s what happened:
My skin looked clearer
Breakouts that usually showed up around my chin completely chilled out. Even the tiny bumps on my forehead started to fade.
I had a natural glow
Not an oily shine — a glow that looked like I’d slept well, drunk enough water, and magically relaxed for a week straight.
My pores looked tighter
This was a big one for me. No product ever made my pores look smaller, but double cleansing kept them so clean that they actually looked refined.
My face felt truly clean
Not squeaky clean (which is actually bad), but fresh and smooth, like all the leftover makeup and SPF was finally gone.
Why Dermatologists Actually Support Double Cleansing
I did a bit of research while trying this, and dermatologists say double cleansing helps because:
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Oil cleansers break down makeup and sunscreen better than regular cleansers
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It prevents buildup that leads to clogged pores
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It keeps your skin barrier healthy when you use gentle products
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It allows your serums and moisturizers to work better
Most experts agree that you don’t need to scrub hard — just massage gently and let the cleansers do the work.
Is Double Cleansing Right for You?
Here’s the truth:
Double cleansing works for most people, especially if you wear sunscreen or makeup. But here’s a simple guide:
If you have oily skin:
You may love it, because the oil cleanser can help reduce excess oil over time.
If you have dry skin:
It can make your skin feel softer and less tight.
If you have combo skin:
You’ll likely see more balanced, even skin.
If you have sensitive skin:
Choose fragrance-free, gentle cleansers and avoid rubbing too hard.
If your skin gets irritated easily, you may want to start slow — maybe 3–4 nights a week before doing it daily.
Choosing the Right Products (Without Getting Overwhelmed)
You don’t need expensive brands. Affordable products work perfectly.
Oil cleansers you can use:
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Cleansing oil
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Cleansing balm
Just avoid using raw coconut oil on your face — it can clog pores.
Water-based cleansers you can look for:
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Gel cleansers
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Cream cleansers
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Foaming cleansers (best for oily skin)
Look for gentle formulas without harsh alcohols or strong fragrance.
Mistakes You Should Avoid
To save you some frustration, here are a few things not to do:
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Don’t scrub your face — gentle massage is enough.
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Don’t use very hot water — warm is perfect.
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Don’t skip moisturizer afterward.
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Don’t double cleanse in the morning — it’s only needed at night.
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Don’t overdo it. Once a day is enough.
My Final Thoughts: Is Double Cleansing Worth It?
Absolutely.
I started double cleansing because I was curious, but I kept doing it because it genuinely made my skin look and feel better. My face feels cleaner than it ever did with just one cleanser, and the difference is easy to see.
If you want clearer pores, smoother skin, a healthier glow, or you simply want your makeup to come off without a fight, double cleansing might be the glow-up you didn’t know you needed.
It’s simple. It’s relaxing. And honestly… it works.
So if you’ve been thinking about trying it, consider this your sign.
Your skin might love it just as much as mine did.
