Double cleansing by skin type
Cleansing oils for oily, sensitive, and dry skin
Anything worth doing is worth doing twice — so let the double cleansing commence. And it’s not just your average wash-rinse-repeat cycle. Double cleansing combines the oil cleansing method with a water-based cleanser. It’s a gentle and thorough way to clean your skin. It also helps remove makeup, sunscreen, sweat, dirt, and any other buildup from throughout the day.
If you want to give double cleansing a shot, here are my go-to products by skin type. These are just suggestions based on what I’ve learned from my time as a skincare blogger. At the end of the day, what works for your unique skin is subjective. That said, if you need a little inspiration, I hope these recommendations help!
Duo #1: Oily or combination skin
That’s right — counterintuitive as it may seem, those with oily/combo skin can still enjoy double cleansing, even with an oil cleanser! Of course, you’ll want to reach for lightweight cleansers that won’t make your skin feel weighed down. That’s why I think using a micellar water is best as your step 1 — it’s water-based and gets its power from micelles, which are tiny oils suspended in water. Follow up with a foaming cleanser to keep things extra light and airy.
Micellar water
- Bioderma Sensibio H2O
- Garnier SkinActive Micellar Cleansing Water
- Avène Eau Thermale Micellar Lotion Cleansing and Makeup Remover
Foaming cleanser
- CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser
- La Roche-Posay Toleriane Purifying Foaming Face Wash
- Korres Greek Yoghurt Foaming Cleanser
Duo #2: Normal to dry skin
If your skin is on the dry side, then you’ll want to reach for a cleansing duo that packs in extra hydration. There are plenty of options when it comes to hydrating facial cleansers, including oil cleansers. You might also enjoy topping off your routine with a deeply hydrating moisturizer, like the Curology rich moisturizer.
Hydrating oil cleanser
- Boscia Makeup Breakup Cool Cleansing Oil
- Caudalie Make-Up Removing Cleansing Oil
- Pai Skincare Light Work Rosehip Cleansing Oil
Hydrating facial cleanser
- Derma-e Hydrating Gentle Cleanser
- Neutrogena Ultra Gentle Daily Cleanser
- CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser
Duo #3: Sensitive skin
If you have sensitive skin — that is, skin that’s prone to redness, itchiness, or irritation — you’ll probably want to avoid products with potentially irritating ingredients including alcohol and added fragrance. If you’re acne-prone, all of the products suggested in this post should work for your skin, since they’re non-comedogenic (meaning not known to cause breakouts).
Fragrance-free cleansers
Simple oil cleansers
- Avène XeraCalm A.D Lipid-Replenishing Cleansing Oil
- DHC Deep Cleansing Oil
- Josie Maran Argan Cleansing Oil
Want more help getting a new skincare routine started? Take the guesswork out of it when you sign up for a free trial of Curology. You’ll be paired with one of our in-house medical providers who will prescribe you a custom cream with a mix of up to 3 ingredients for your unique skin. You can add any of our other products (including our cleanser) at no extra cost. Curology providers stick with you throughout your skincare journey, so you’ll be able to seek their advice as long as you’re a member. Your first box is free — just $4.95 (plus tax) to cover shipping/handling.
