The hot topic within skincare right now is definitely the debate surrounding 'double cleansing.' It's not only about what should you be using and how you should be using it, but how many times you should undertake the process. Every day your skin is exposed to hundreds of thousands of germs and bacteria; each time you touch your face you're cross-contaminating an estimated 100,000 different nasties that you've unwillingly picked up from touching door knobs, holding a hand rail on the tube or even standing near someone that sneezes. If these nasties are left on the skin for an extensive amount of time they can lead to blocked pores and infected follicles - one of the many reasons cleansing your skin morning and night is so beneficial. On top of that we're wearing increasing layers of makeup, SPF and fragrance, all of which sit on the skin and can suffocate it if not removed effectively. So, why do we need to 'double cleanse' before bed?
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Skin experts claim the skin 'replenishes' itself between the hours of 6pm and 4am; this is when our skin cells really get to work by renewing, hydrating and revitalising. It's essential that all traces of dirt and grime are removed for this to happen successfully: germs, bacteria and leftover makeup that's still present on the skin will result in this process slowing down (hence dull, dehydrated looking skin.) For skin replenishment to happen effectively, the skin should be free from makeup, SPF, dirt, grime and excess oil. Cleansing balms are an effective way of lifting this from the surface, while a flannel or muslin cloth helps to wash it away and leave skin feeling fresh. However, completing the process only once may not actually remove everything you need it to.
Think of cleansing your face like washing your clothes... Would you put a pair of jeans covered in grass stains on a quick wash? Absolutely not. The first cleanse aims to lift make up and SPF from the surface, as well as removing dirt and grime from the top layer of skin. This cleanse is also known as the 'superficial cleanse,' meaning that it's removing only what is visible on the surface. The second cleanse (or 'deep cleanse') aims to penetrate into the skin to deep clean, hydrate and soften to skin - this stage is where you'll benefit the most and notice a visible difference. It's advised that if you wear makeup and/or SPF daily that you should always double cleanse in the evening before bed; as makeup and dirt is (theoretically) effectively removed before you sleep, there's no need to double cleanse in the morning.
Double cleansing will ensure the complete removal of all traces of dirt, grime and make up, as well as allowing the skin to replenish overnight. Furthermore, having freshly cleansed skin will also ensure your night creams, serums and oils can easily penetrate beyond the surface and get to work whilst you sleep. It's essential to also remember to always use a clean flannel or cloth to remove makeup, otherwise you're simply scrubbing yesterday's nasties back into your skin. Try double cleansing and see how much better your skin feels after only a few days!
Written by Amy Bambrick
@amys_loves ![]()
Skin experts claim the skin 'replenishes' itself between the hours of 6pm and 4am; this is when our skin cells really get to work by renewing, hydrating and revitalising. It's essential that all traces of dirt and grime are removed for this to happen successfully: germs, bacteria and leftover makeup that's still present on the skin will result in this process slowing down (hence dull, dehydrated looking skin.) For skin replenishment to happen effectively, the skin should be free from makeup, SPF, dirt, grime and excess oil. Cleansing balms are an effective way of lifting this from the surface, while a flannel or muslin cloth helps to wash it away and leave skin feeling fresh. However, completing the process only once may not actually remove everything you need it to.
Think of cleansing your face like washing your clothes... Would you put a pair of jeans covered in grass stains on a quick wash? Absolutely not. The first cleanse aims to lift make up and SPF from the surface, as well as removing dirt and grime from the top layer of skin. This cleanse is also known as the 'superficial cleanse,' meaning that it's removing only what is visible on the surface. The second cleanse (or 'deep cleanse') aims to penetrate into the skin to deep clean, hydrate and soften to skin - this stage is where you'll benefit the most and notice a visible difference. It's advised that if you wear makeup and/or SPF daily that you should always double cleanse in the evening before bed; as makeup and dirt is (theoretically) effectively removed before you sleep, there's no need to double cleanse in the morning.
Double cleansing will ensure the complete removal of all traces of dirt, grime and make up, as well as allowing the skin to replenish overnight. Furthermore, having freshly cleansed skin will also ensure your night creams, serums and oils can easily penetrate beyond the surface and get to work whilst you sleep. It's essential to also remember to always use a clean flannel or cloth to remove makeup, otherwise you're simply scrubbing yesterday's nasties back into your skin. Try double cleansing and see how much better your skin feels after only a few days!
Written by Amy Bambrick