Proper cleansing is the foundation of every effective skincare routine, yet it's often the most overlooked step. Professional estheticians have long relied on a technique called "double cleansing" to thoroughly purify the skin without compromising its natural barrier. In this comprehensive guide, we'll share the professional approach to double cleansing that can transform your skincare results—straight from COSMEDIX skincare experts.
What is Double Cleansing?
Double cleansing is a two-step method that uses complementary cleansers to thoroughly remove impurities while maintaining skin health:
First Cleanse: An oil-based cleanser dissolves oil-soluble impurities like makeup, sunscreen, sebum, and environmental pollutants
Second Cleanse: A water-based cleanser tailored to your skin type removes water-soluble impurities like sweat and remaining residue
This approach ensures complete cleansing without stripping the skin's essential moisture or disrupting its delicate pH balance.
The Professional Double Cleanse Method
Step 1: Oil-Based Cleanse
Begin with dry hands and dry face
Dispense 1-2 pumps of Purity Solution into palms
Warm between hands and apply to face
Massage for 60-90 seconds using gentle circular motions
Focus on areas with makeup, congestion, or excess oil
Add water to emulsify the oil before rinsing clean
Step 2: Water-Based Cleanse
Choose your second cleanser based on skin type (see recommendations below)
First Cleanse: Purity Solution dissolves impurities without stripping
Second Cleanse: Gentle Clean with Shea Butter Betaine to nourish and soothe
Professional Insight: "Clients with sensitive skin benefit from gentle, non-foaming cleansers that preserve the skin's natural lipid barrier." — Licensed COSMEDIX Professional
First Cleanse: Purity Solution removes makeup and excess oil
Second Cleanse: Purity Clean with L-Lactic Acid for gentle exfoliation
Professional Insight: "For combination skin, focus the second cleanse on oilier areas like the T-zone while being gentler on drier areas." — Licensed COSMEDIX Professional
First Cleanse: Purity Solution breaks down excess sebum
Second Cleanse: Clarify Salicylic Acid Foaming Cleanser for deeper purification
Professional Insight: "Contrary to popular belief, oil-based first cleansers are excellent for oily skin as they effectively dissolve excess sebum without triggering additional oil production." — Licensed COSMEDIX Professional
Common Cleansing Mistakes to Avoid
Using water that's too hot (damages skin barrier)
Cleansing for too short a time (insufficient removal)
Skipping the oil-cleansing step (incomplete makeup removal)
Using harsh, stripping cleansers (disrupts pH balance)
Rubbing skin dry (causes irritation and micro-tears)
Cleansing just once daily (allows impurities to accumulate)
The Professional Difference
While an effective at-home double-cleansing routine is essential, professional treatments can periodically enhance your results:
What Professional Cleansing Includes:
Customized cleansers based on thorough skin analysis
Specialized equipment like steamers to enhance product penetration
Professional-only techniques that increase efficacy
Extended massage to improve circulation and product absorption
Targeted extractions when necessary
Beyond Cleansing - Your Complete Routine
Tone & Balance: Restore pH balance and prep for treatments
Treat & Correct: Address specific skin concerns with targeted serums
Hydrate & Protect: Lock in moisture and shield from environmental stressors
Mastering the professional double cleanse method creates the perfect foundation for skincare success. By properly removing impurities without compromising your skin's natural barrier, you'll maximize the effectiveness of all subsequent products in your routine—leading to visibly transformed skin.
