Long-wear foundation, waterproof mascara, a bolder lip for a holiday party: the more makeup you wear, the more you may wonder whether a single cleanse is really enough at the end of the day. This is where double cleansing comes in.
It's a simple method, but it isn't essential for everyone. Here's how to know whether it's right for you.
The short answer: double cleansing means removing makeup with an oil-based product first, then cleansing the skin with a water-based cleanser. It's especially useful in the evening if you wear long-wear or waterproof makeup. If you wear little or no makeup, one gentle cleanse is usually enough. In the morning, a single cleanse is generally sufficient.
What Is Double Cleansing?
Double cleansing is an evening routine in two steps, each with its own role:
- Step 1: an oil-based makeup remover. Oil dissolves oil. A makeup-removing oil breaks down long-wear foundation, waterproof mascara and excess sebum, which water alone has trouble removing.
- Step 2: a water-based cleanser. A gentle mousse, gel or milk then removes the last traces of makeup remover, impurities and residue, leaving the skin clean and ready for your serum and cream.
To learn more about the different textures of cleansers, read our article Face Cleanser: Gel, Cleansing Milk or Foam, Which One Should You Choose?
Do You Really Need It?
Double cleansing is particularly useful if:
- you wear long-wear foundation, waterproof mascara or long-lasting lipstick;
- you wear makeup every day, or several layers of product;
- your skin tends to be oily and you feel a single cleanse leaves residue behind.
On the other hand, if you wear little or no makeup, or your skin is very dry or sensitive, a single gentle product that removes makeup and cleanses at the same time, such as a cleansing milk or a gentle mousse, may be all you need. The goal is clean skin, not skin that feels stripped.
How to Double Cleanse Gently
1. Dissolve makeup with an oil
For the eyes and lips, soak a cotton pad or a reusable makeup remover wipe with a makeup-removing oil and hold it on the closed eyelid for a few seconds before gently wiping. Avoid rubbing: letting the product dissolve the makeup is gentler on this delicate area. For a gel that turns into oil, massage it onto dry skin, then add a little water to emulsify it.
2. Cleanse with a water-based product
Apply your cleanser with your fingertips on damp skin, massage gently, then rinse with lukewarm water. Pat your skin dry with a soft towel rather than rubbing.
3. Continue your routine
Follow with your toner, serum and night cream. A good cleanse helps the rest of your routine work on clean skin.
Common Mistakes
- Rubbing the eye area. Let the product work for a few seconds instead.
- Using hot water. Lukewarm water is gentler, especially in winter.
- Cleansing three or four times. Two steps are plenty; more can leave the skin feeling tight.
- Choosing a harsh cleanser for step 2. Since makeup is already removed, the second cleanser can be very gentle.
Our Products for a Gentle Double Cleanse
Bi-Phase Makeup Remover
Step 1, a two-phase makeup-removing oil. Combining oil and water, it gently removes all traces of makeup from the eyes and lips, even long-wear and waterproof formulas, without rubbing and without leaving a greasy residue. Cornflower floral water soothes and aloe vera softens.
Eye & Lip Make-up Remover Gel
Step 1, an alternative texture. When massaged, this gel turns into an oil to dissolve makeup, then into a milk on contact with water. It removes waterproof mascara and long-wear lipstick without a greasy feel, and is suitable for sensitive eyes.
Ultra-Gentle Cleansing Mousse
Step 2, for sensitive skin and lash extensions. Made with 98% natural ingredients, this oil-free, airy mousse gently cleanses the face, eyes and eyelash extensions without drying out the skin.
Moisturize Cleansing Milk
Step 2, for dry or dehydrated skin. Its gel-cream texture gently removes impurities and makeup while preserving the skin's moisture, for a fresh, comfortable feeling.
Reusable Make-up Remover Wipes
The accessory. Made entirely in Montreal from bamboo and organic cotton, these wipes have an ultra-soft side for sensitive skin and a deep-cleansing side.
Explore all our cleansing oils and our complete cleansers & makeup removers collection.
Frequently Asked Questions About Double Cleansing
Should I double cleanse in the morning?
Usually not. In the morning, there's no makeup to remove, so a single gentle cleanse is generally enough.
Is double cleansing too much for sensitive skin?
Not if you choose gentle products and avoid rubbing. If your skin feels tight afterwards, switch to a single gentle product that removes makeup and cleanses at the same time.
I have eyelash extensions. Can I use a makeup-removing oil?
Oil can weaken the adhesive of eyelash extensions. Around the lashes, choose an oil-free product designed for extensions, such as our Ultra-Gentle Cleansing Mousse, and follow the advice of your lash technician.
Can oily skin use a makeup-removing oil?
Yes. The oil is removed in the second step, so the skin is left clean without residue.
The Bottom Line
Double cleansing isn't a must for everyone, but it's a simple way to remove long-wear makeup thoroughly without scrubbing. Keep it for the evenings when you wear makeup, choose gentle textures, and let the product do the work. Your skin will be clean, comfortable and ready for the rest of your routine.
Not sure which cleanser suits your skin?
A France Laure partner esthetician can assess your skin and help you choose the right makeup remover and cleanser for your needs.
