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This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at Emory chapter.

If you wear makeup on the daily, or just want to have clearer skin, you NEED to be double cleansing.

What is a double cleanse?

A double cleanse is a Korean cleansing method, which aims to remove oil, sweat, and dirt from the skin using two different types of cleansers. The goal of the first cleanser is to remove makeup, dirt, and pollutants from your skin. This first cleanser is typically some sort of cleansing balm or oil, sometimes a micellar water. The goal of the second cleanser is to remove any remaining and more subliminal oil and dirt. The typical second cleanser is a cleanser that’s more tailored to your specific skin type. These can be a cream, gel, or lotion textured cleanser. 

How do you incorporate a double cleanse into your skincare routine? 

Mostly, doubling cleansing is a part of a nighttime routine, but if you have super oily skin, a double cleanse in the morning can help remove the excess oil. Regardless of when you choose to double cleanse, this will be the first step in your skincare routine. You’d first cleanse with a cleansing balm or oil, and then use your choice of a second cleanser to wash your skin again. 

Why should I be double cleansing?

Double cleansing has plenty of benefits. Sure, it’s easy to pick up a makeup wipe and use that to take off your makeup, but that doesn’t remove all the makeup from your pores. In fact, using a makeup wipe just pushes dirt into different areas on the skin.  A double cleanse reduces risks of breakouts. When you use a makeup wipe and leave traces of foundation in your skin, your skin can become irritated which can cause breakouts. Double cleansing is a sure way to remove every bit of makeup from your face. Double cleaning also makes it so your skin can absorb your moisturizer and other products better. Because there are no longer remnants of dirt or oil on your skin, it’s easier for serums and moisturizers to do their job. Overall, double cleansing is a great method for removing makeup and leaving your skin as clean as possible.

Frances is currently a sophomore at Emory University studying history and economics. She's interested in fashion and beauty, specifically skincare. When she's not in class or at work, you can typically find her studying at Starbucks.
Laura is a current senior at Emory University (Class of 2020) studying psychology and linguistics. When not watching The Bachelor or teen tv dramas, Laura can be found playing tennis with her friends, sipping on her white mocha in Starbucks, or rocking out to Taylor Swift. Laura hopes to combine her love for entertainment with her love for making memories and bringing joy to people by becoming an event planner in the entertainment industry.