What, Why, and How To Double Cleanse With ELEMIS

Double cleansing is a method that uses two different cleansers, each with a specific purpose.

“Think of it as a two-stage reset for your skin,” Keeley explains. “The first cleanse lifts the day away. The second cleanse then focuses on cleansing the skin itself, using a formula that suits your skin type, concerns or goals.

While double cleansing has become increasingly popular in recent years, the practice has a much longer history. The technique has roots in Japanese skincare traditions and was later brought to wider attention through Korean beauty routines.

At ELEMIS, double cleansing has long been a signature of our spa therapies. Every ELEMIS treatment begins with our Pro-Collagen Cleansing Balm, followed by a second cleanser or exfoliator that prepares the skin for the professional products and techniques that follow. The two steps have different roles: an oil-based first cleanse to dissolve makeup, SPF and excess sebum; and a second cleanse (usually water-based) with ingredients that focus on your skin needs, rather than on what’s sitting on its surface.

The main benefit of double cleansing is that it allows each step to serve a different purpose. Rather than searching for searching for one formula that can remove makeup and daily build-up as well as address specific needs such as dryness, dullness, oiliness or dehydration, you can choose two complementary cleansers that each do their job super efficiently.

For Keeley, the benefits begin long before you reach for your serum or moisturiser.

“Cleansing isn't simply the step before your skincare. It is skincare”

What she means is that the cleansing stage can already help support how your skin looks and feels. By choosing formulas suited to your skin's needs, you can help maintain a comfortable, hydrated complexion rather than leaving skin feeling tight or stripped.

Double cleansing also prepares a clean canvas for the rest of your skincare routine, allowing you to follow with your chosen toner, serum and moisturiser.

Does Everyone Need to Double Cleanse?

Not necessarily, but Keeley recommends double cleansing as part of an evening routine, even on days when you haven't worn makeup.

“Even when you haven't worn makeup, your skin can still accumulate SPF, excess sebum, pollution and environmental debris throughout the day.”

Double cleansing is particularly useful after wearing makeup or SPF, when you know there’s more to remove before you can target your clean skin.

In the morning, however, a single gentle cleanse is generally sufficient, as skin hasn't been exposed to the same daily build-up. Those with particularly sensitive or dry skin may also prefer a simpler routine, depending on how their skin responds.

The important thing is to consider what your skin needs rather than assuming that more cleansing is always better.

Getting your double cleanse right isn't about using more product or scrubbing harder. It's about choosing the right formulas and taking the time to use them properly.

Step 1: Remove the Day with a Cleansing Balm or Oil

Start with an oil-based cleanser, such as Pro-Collagen Cleansing Balm, to help dissolve the day's build-up.

Oil-based formulas are particularly effective at dissolving oil-soluble substances, making them well suited to removing makeup, excess sebum and many long-wearing products.

Warm a small amount of Cleansing Balm between your fingertips, then massage over dry skin, including the face, neck and décolletage. Keeley recommends spending around 60 seconds on this step rather than rushing through it.

Next, add a little water and continue massaging as the rich balm transforms into a hydrating milk. This process, known as emulsification, helps the cleanser and the impurities it has dissolved rinse away effectively.

Rinse thoroughly with water, using a damp cleansing cloth if preferred.

Step 2: Choose a Treatment Cleanser for Your Skin's Needs

With the day's build-up removed, your second cleanse can focus on what your skin needs.

Whether you're looking for hydration, a refreshed feeling or a smoother-looking complexion, choose a treatment cleanser that complements your skin type and current concerns.

As Keeley says, “Your second cleanser doesn't have to be the same 365 days of the year. Listen to your skin, then decide: what does my skin need today?”

Pro-Collagen Cleansing Balm makes an ideal first step, followed by a treatment cleanser tailored to your skin.

For Hydration & Comfort: Pro-Collagen Hydrating Cleansing Mousse

If your skin is feeling dehydrated or in need of extra comfort, follow your Cleansing Balm with Pro-Collagen Hydrating Cleansing Mousse.

Its replenishing formula offers a gentle second cleanse, leaving skin feeling soft, supple and hydrated.

For a Fresh, Energised Feeling: Pro-Collagen Energising Marine Cleanser

For skin that feels lacklustre or congested, Pro-Collagen Energising Marine Cleanser is a refreshing second step.

This invigorating gel cleanser helps leave skin feeling thoroughly cleansed and refreshed, making it a good choice when you want a fresh, energised finish.

For Smoother, More Radiant Skin: Dynamic Resurfacing Facial Wash

If uneven texture and dullness are your main concerns, choose Dynamic Resurfacing Facial Wash as your second cleanse.

This exfoliating formula helps smooth the appearance of skin and promote a brighter, more radiant-looking complexion.

Absolutely. It’s a common misconception that an oil-based cleanser wouldn’t suit oily skin – but oils can be particularly effective at dissolving excess sebum and oil-based impurities. (If you’ve ever used an oil-based eye-makeup remover, you may have noticed how effective – and gentle – this is compared with soap and water. The same principle applies to removing makeup on your face, even if skin is oily.)

Using a cleansing balm as your first cleanse doesn't mean adding another layer of oil to your skin. It helps to lift away the day's build-up without relying on aggressive cleansing.

What matters is how your skin feels afterwards. If it's tight, dry or uncomfortable, you may be using a cleanser that's too harsh, or cleansing too frequently.

Skin should feel clean and comfortable, not stripped of moisture.

“Double cleansing shouldn't mean double stripping,” says Keeley. If your skin feels tight, dry, uncomfortable or looks increasingly red after cleansing, it may be time to reconsider your products or technique.

This is particularly important if you're already using exfoliating acids, retinoids or other active treatments in your routine.

Choose gentle formulas suited to your skin, avoid excessive rubbing and pay attention to how your complexion responds.

Remember, a squeaky-clean feeling isn't necessarily a sign of effective cleansing. Your skin should feel fresh, soft and comfortable afterwards.

Ultimately, double cleansing is about listening to your skin. Everyone's complexion is individual – so choose the formulas that suit your concerns, preferences and lifestyle rather than following a rigid set of rules. By making each step count, you’re giving your skin its best chance to feel clean, comfortable and ready for the rest of your skincare routine.