Double Cleansing: A Wrinkle-free Way To Remove Makeup Without Wipes

If you haven’t already heard, we’re boycotting makeup wipes because our skin deserves better. Still doubtful? I give the lowdown of why you should throw out your wipes and switch to skin and environmentally-friendly alternatives here.

To sum it up, makeup wipes are way too harsh on the skin, invite fine lines and wrinkles, especially to the delicate eye area, and even leave behind makeup and dirt residue — babes, I rest my case! I’ve briefly discussed double cleansing but here’s everything you should know about the skin-changing routine.

What is double cleansing? 

Double cleansing is a method that helps remove makeup without wipes (good for the environment, and your moisture barrier!). As its name suggests, you first cleanse your skin with an oil cleanser or micellar water followed by a water-based traditional cleanser. The first cleansing step breaks down oil-based impurities such as makeup and sunscreen (both are formulated to stay on!) and naturally occurring sebum. The second cleanser can then work its way to remove sweat and any left-over grime while also targeting your skin concerns such as dryness or acne. Unlike makeup wipes, this method clears out your pores without stripping your skin of its moisture. It’s recommended to incorporate it into your night time routine so you can head to bed feeling squeaky clean. 

Double cleansing with oil cleansers 

Oil cleansers can remove makeup without wipes, which means you’re safe from any skin-tugging or stripped skin. Makeup wipes leave your skin dry, which is a nightmare for dry skin and even dehydrates oily skin. You oily-skin beauties are probably laughing at the idea of applying oil to your skin but don’t click away just yet! Oil cleansers work great on all skin types (yes, even oily skin) as it not only breaks down the gunk, it also maintains the oil balance of your skin. A healthy skin barrier helps to keep irritants out and moisture in and oil cleansers do just that!

Some of my personal favorites are the DHC Deep Cleansing Oil and Kiehl’s Midnight Recovery Botanical Cleansing Oil. Massage 1-2 pumps of the product on your skin in circular motions for 1 minute before rinsing off with lukewarm water to avoid dehydration. There are a ton of amazing oil cleansers on the market, and as one of my favorite categories of skin care, I’ve tried more than a few of them. You can shop my favorites here.

Double cleansing with micellar water

If you have oily skin and are still not comfortable with oil cleansers, micellar water is the way to go. Micellar water is no ordinary water. If the tap water in your city is hard and irritating on the skin, micellar water is a great alternative for cleansing. The product contains small particles of micelles that attract impurities and lift them off the skin without dehydrating it. Micellar water also contains moisture-rich ingredients like glycerin to keep the skin hydrated. A personal favorite of mine is the Bioderma Sensibio H2O Micellar Water. Try out this makeup wipes DIY technique by soaking a reusable bamboo pad with micellar water and gently wiping any residue off your skin. 

Pro Tip: If you’re taking off eye makeup, leave a soaked pad on your eyes for a couple of seconds before wiping it off to reduce wrinkle formation. 

Finish off with a traditional cleanser 

Your second cleanser should complement your skin type whether you’re dry, oily or combination. For example, oily and acne-prone skin types would appreciate salicylic acid cleansers while dry skin types should opt for creamy formulas. If you don’t know your skin type and the products you should be using, it’s best to have a consultation to identify your skin’s needs. 

Skincare can get confusing especially when it isn’t one-size-fits-all. Knowing your skin type is the first step to radiant and healthy skin. Set up a consultation with me and I’ll walk you through a personalized routine to achieve your skin goals.