Double cleansing has become a staple in many skincare routines, but like everything in skin health, it’s not one-size-fits-all. At Bare & Balanced, I love educating my clients on how to work with their skin—not against it—and that includes understanding when a double cleanse is helpful… and when it might be doing more harm than good.

When Does a Double Cleanse Make Sense?

Double cleansing is exactly what it sounds like: cleansing your face twice in one routine. The first cleanse is typically oil-based to break down makeup, sunscreen, sweat, and excess sebum. The second cleanse (usually a gel or cream cleanser) helps to remove any remaining residue and actually cleanse the skin.

Here’s when I do recommend it:

• You’re wearing makeup (especially long-wear or mineral SPF)
• You live in a hot, humid climate like here in Orlando, and you’ve been sweating or outside all day
• You have true oily, acne-prone skin—if you’re someone who notices blackheads or congestion all over (not just in your T-zone), this is likely you!

But Double Cleansing Isn’t for Everyone

If you’re dealing with a compromised skin barrier, peri-oral dermatitis, eczema, or barrier-related acne flare-ups, double cleansing might be too much. Over-cleansing is a major contributor to barrier dysfunction—and once that barrier is impaired, inflammation and sensitivity take over.

You don’t have to do more to be doing enough.

In fact, when my skin is feeling more reactive, I stick with one gentle cleanse in the evening—and I always refrain from makeup and excessive heat exposure so there is no need for a double cleanse.

Do You Need a Different Cleanser for the Second Cleanse?

Who said that!? Let’s set the record straight.

You don’t need two different cleansers.
If your cleanser is gentle, non-stripping, and barrier-friendly, you can use the same one twice. Personally, when I wear makeup, I just double up with my oil cleanser—once to remove the makeup, and again to cleanse the skin. It works beautifully, and most importantly, it doesn’t disrupt my barrier.

Rule of thumb: If your cleanser leaves your skin feeling tight, dry, or squeaky-clean—it’s probably doing more harm than good.

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Let’s Cleanse with Intention

Cleansing should be simple, calming, and customized to your skin. Not every trend is meant for every face. The key is understanding your skin’s needs and building your routine around support—not stripping.

Need help choosing a cleanser or creating a routine that’s actually aligned with your skin? Come in for a customized treatment at Bare & Balanced here in Orlando, where we do things differently. No trendy fluff—just skin health, rooted in results.