Do You Need to Double Cleanse?

Two cleanses, two jobs

Double cleansing usually means using an oil-based or makeup-removing first step, followed by a water-based cleanser. The first step is there to dissolve what you are wearing; the second cleanses the skin.

That distinction is more useful than treating double cleansing as a rule everyone should follow.

When it can make sense

If you wear long-wear makeup, heavier complexion products or sunscreen that does not come away comfortably with your regular cleanser, a dedicated first cleanse can make removal easier. In our comparison, GlowNatureal Deep Cleansing Oil and Zeromultiple Botanical Glow Cleansing Oil are both designed for this first-cleanse job. Both contain lavender, so patch test first if essential oils tend to bother your skin.

When one cleanse may be enough

If you wore little or no makeup and your cleanser removes the day comfortably, adding another step may not improve the routine. More cleansing is not automatically better cleansing.

Pay attention to how skin feels afterwards

Your routine should leave skin clean without creating an escalating cycle of tightness, scrubbing and compensating with more products. If skin repeatedly feels uncomfortable after cleansing, reconsider the cleanser, water temperature, cleansing frequency and the number of steps — and read what ‘gentle’ skincare actually means.

Build your Remove the Day routine

Start with makeup/SPF removal only when needed. Follow with the cleanser that fits your skin state. Then restore moisture where your skin needs it — for example with Zeromultiple Moringa Beta Glucan Moisturiser. The goal is not the longest routine — it is a routine where every step has a job. Shop the full routine in Remove the Day.

Frequently asked questions

What is double cleansing?

It means cleansing in two steps: first an oil-based or makeup-removing cleanser to dissolve makeup, sunscreen and oil-based residue, then a water-based cleanser to clean the skin itself.

Do I need to double cleanse if I wear sunscreen?

Not always. If your sunscreen comes away comfortably with your regular cleanser, one cleanse may be enough. Water-resistant or long-wear products are often easier to remove with an oil-based first step.

Can I double cleanse every day?

Some people do, but it should match what you wore that day. If your skin feels tight or uncomfortable afterwards, try one cleanse on low-makeup days.

What can I use as a first cleanse?

A cleansing oil designed for makeup removal, such as GlowNatureal Deep Cleansing Oil or Zeromultiple Botanical Glow Cleansing Oil. Both contain lavender, so patch test if essential oils tend to bother your skin.

Is double cleansing bad for dry or sensitive skin?

Not necessarily, but an extra step may be more than your skin needs. Keep the routine simple, choose a gentle second cleanser and follow with moisture if skin feels dry.