Double Cleansing: Necessary or Overhyped? Here’s What Dermatologists Really Say

If you’ve spent any time scrolling through skincare TikTok or reading beauty blogs, you’ve definitely come across the phrase “double cleansing.” Popularized by Korean skincare routines, double cleansing claims to remove every trace of makeup, sunscreen, and pollution from the skin — leaving you with a clean canvas for the rest of your routine.

But the big question is: Is double cleansing actually necessary, or is it just an overhyped trend? Let’s break down the truth behind this viral technique and whether it deserves a place in your everyday routine.

What Exactly Is Double Cleansing?

Double cleansing is a two-step cleansing method:

Step 1: Oil-Based Cleanser

This could be a cleansing oil, cleansing balm, or micellar water.
Its job is to break down:

• waterproof makeup

• sunscreen

• excess sebum

• pollution and environmental debris

Oil attracts oil, which makes this step incredibly effective for dissolving buildup on the skin.

Step 2: Water-Based Cleanser

This is your traditional gel, cream, or foaming cleanser.
Its role is to remove:

• sweat

• dirt

• leftover impurities from step one

Together, the two steps thoroughly cleanse the skin without needing harsh scrubbing or stripping ingredients.

Is Double Cleansing Really Necessary?

The short answer: It depends on your skin type, lifestyle, and how much product you wear daily.

✔ You should double cleanse if you…

• wear makeup

• use sunscreen every day

• live in a polluted or humid environment

• have oily or acne-prone skin

• feel like your regular cleanser isn’t enough

For these skin types and lifestyles, double cleansing ensures your pores stay clear and reduces buildup that could lead to breakouts or dullness.

✖ You don’t need to double cleanse if you…

• have dry or sensitive skin

• rarely wear makeup

• use lightweight, easy-to-remove sunscreen

• already use a very gentle but effective single cleanser

In these cases, double cleansing might cause unnecessary dryness or irritation if done too frequently.

The Benefits of Double Cleansing (Backed by Dermatologists)

1. Better Makeup and Sunscreen Removal

Makeup removers and oils break down long-wear and waterproof products far more effectively than water-based cleansers alone. If you wear foundation, mascara, or sunscreen, double cleansing ensures no residue remains.

2. Prevents Clogged Pores and Blackheads

Oil-based cleansers dissolve sebum — one of the main causes of congestion and breakouts.
A clean pore = fewer blackheads, fewer bumps, and smoother texture.

3. Allows Active Ingredients to Work Better

If your skin isn’t properly cleansed, serums like vitamin C, retinoids, or exfoliating acids can’t absorb as effectively.
Double cleansing creates a “clean canvas,” improving product penetration.

4. Gentle but More Effective

Despite what it sounds like, double cleansing is usually less harsh than aggressive scrubbing. Oils are naturally soothing and help protect the skin barrier.

5. Brighter, More Radiant Skin

Regularly removing buildup helps prevent dullness caused by leftover sweat, makeup, and environmental debris.

The Potential Downsides of Double Cleansing

While double cleansing has clear benefits, it’s not perfect for everyone.

1. It Can Over-Cleanse Dry or Sensitive Skin

If your skin barrier is delicate, cleansing twice may strip away too much of your natural oils, leading to:

• dryness

• flaking

• irritation

• redness

2. Using the Wrong Oils Can Cause Breakouts

Some oils are comedogenic (pore-clogging), and using the wrong cleansing balm can worsen acne.
Always choose non-comedogenic formulas if you’re breakout-prone.

3. It Takes More Time

For some people, adding two cleansing steps feels like too much effort — especially at night.