How-to-Wash-Your-Face-Properly-The-Truth-About-Double-Cleansing Pure Tone Aesthetics

How to Wash Your Face Properly — The Truth About Double Cleansing

How to Wash Your Face Properly — The Truth About Double Cleansing

Written by the Pure Tone Aesthetics Editorial Team • Last updated 17 October 2025

Proper cleansing is the foundation of healthy skin. Get this step right and your serums and moisturisers absorb better, breakouts are reduced, and your skin barrier stays happy. Here’s the simple, science-led way to wash your face — including when and how to double cleanse without over-doing it.

Why Correct Cleansing Matters

Cleansing isn’t just about removing makeup — it’s about preparing your skin for everything that follows. If you cleanse too harshly, you can compromise the skin barrier. If you don’t cleanse thoroughly enough, oils, SPF and pollutants linger and block the absorption of active ingredients.

The sweet spot is effective but gentle — and for many people, that’s where double cleansing shines.

Woman washing her face with gentle foaming cleanser

What Is Double Cleansing?

Double cleansing is a two-step evening cleanse popularised by Korean skincare. First, you remove oil-based impurities like sunscreen, makeup and excess sebum. Second, you wash away sweat, pollution and residue with a water-based cleanser. Done correctly, skin feels clean, soft and primed — not tight or squeaky.

Step 1 — Oil Cleanser or Micellar Water

Massage into dry skin to dissolve SPF and makeup (including long-wear). Add a splash of lukewarm water to emulsify, then rinse. Micellar water can be used similarly with a reusable pad.

Step 2 — Water-Based Cleanser

Use a gentle gel or foaming cleanser to lift leftover grime. Spend ~30–60 seconds massaging in small circles, then rinse with lukewarm water.

Viveca Ultrasonic Facial Cleansing Brush in charging dock

How to Wash Your Face Properly — Step by Step

  1. Start with clean hands. It matters more than most people think.
  2. Remove SPF and makeup with an oil cleanser or micellar water.
  3. Use lukewarm water, not hot. Hot water can strip and irritate.
  4. Second cleanse with a gentle gel/foam cleanser for 30–60 seconds.
  5. Optional: use a cleansing tool for a deeper, more even clean.
  6. Rinse, then pat dry. Don’t rub or tug at the skin.
  7. Apply serum while skin is slightly damp, then moisturiser.
Pro tip: Wearing heavy SPF, long-wear makeup, or live/work in the city? Double cleanse nightly. On light/no-makeup days, one gentle cleanse may be enough.

Why Use the Viveca Ultrasonic Facial Cleansing Brush

For the second cleanse, a device can help cleanse more evenly — especially around the nose and chin. The Viveca Ultrasonic Facial Cleansing Brush uses high-frequency ultrasonic, LED light therapy, 3D vibration and galvanic-ion technology to lift impurities, remove excess oil and refine pores. It also prepares skin for improved absorption of serums and moisturisers.

  • Use 3–4 times per week, ideally in the evening.
  • In a double cleanse, use Viveca for the second cleanse.
  • Pair with a gentle gel/foam cleanser; avoid gritty scrubs.
Viveca Ultrasonic Facial Cleansing Brush deep-cleaning pores with ultrasonic vibration

Want a deeper dive into tools? Read: Best Facial Cleansing Brushes and Tools — Ready to Transform Your Skincare Routine?

When’s the Best Time to Wash Your Face?

Twice daily is ideal — morning and night — but if you only pick one, never skip your evening cleanse. It removes the day’s SPF, oil and pollution so pores stay clear and skin looks brighter.

If you’re dry or sensitive in the morning, a splash of water or micellar pass may be enough before serum and SPF.

Evening skincare routine using an ultrasonic cleansing brush

🌞 Morning vs. Evening Cleansing — What’s Best?

Some skincare experts argue that you don’t need to cleanse in the morning, especially if your skin is dry or sensitive. Their reasoning is that overnight, your skin isn’t exposed to makeup or pollution — so over-cleansing could strip away natural oils and disturb the barrier.

However, most people still benefit from a gentle morning cleanse. Overnight, your skin produces sebum and sweat, and any residual night creams or serums can mix with those oils. A light morning cleanse — using a mild gel or micellar water — clears the way for your daytime serum and SPF to work effectively.

Balanced recommendation: cleanse twice daily if you have normal to oily skin, or once daily (evening) if your skin is dry, sensitive, or barrier-compromised. The key is gentleness — not skipping entirely.

Can You Over-Cleanse?

Yes. Too much cleansing can strip protective lipids, causing tightness, flaking and irritation. Limit deep-clean tools like Viveca to 3–4× weekly and always follow with a hydrating serum and moisturiser.

FAQs

Do I need to double cleanse every day?
Not always. If you wear SPF and makeup daily or live in a high-pollution area, double cleanse in the evening. On lighter days, one gentle cleanse may suffice.
Can I use the Viveca brush with any cleanser?
Use with non-abrasive gel or foaming cleansers. Avoid gritty scrubs or cleansers with harsh exfoliants when using a device.
Is morning cleansing necessary?
It helps remove overnight oil and skincare residue. If you’re very dry or sensitive, a water rinse or micellar sweep can be enough.
How often should I use a cleansing brush?
3–4 times per week works well for most skin. Reduce frequency if you experience dryness or increased sensitivity.
Which comes first — cleanser or exfoliator?
Cleanse first. If you’re using a chemical exfoliant (AHA/BHA), apply it to clean, dry skin after cleansing, then follow with serum and moisturiser.
Should I double cleanse if I don’t wear makeup?
If you wear SPF daily (recommended), an evening double cleanse is still beneficial. On minimal-SPF days, one cleanse can be enough.
What temperature should the water be?
Lukewarm. Hot water can strip the skin; cold water doesn’t melt oils effectively. Aim for comfortable, tepid water.
Can over-cleansing cause breakouts?
Yes. Stripping the barrier can trigger excess oil production and irritation, which can lead to breakouts. Keep it gentle and consistent.
Where does micellar water fit in?
Use micellar water as the first cleanse (especially for no-rinse convenience), then follow with a water-based cleanser. Always finish by rinsing the second cleanse.
Can I use face wipes instead?
Wipes are handy in a pinch but don’t cleanse as thoroughly and can be abrasive. If you use them, follow with a proper water-based cleanse.
Can I double cleanse if I have rosacea or eczema?
Yes — but keep it ultra gentle. Use a non-foaming cream or gel cleanser, avoid fragrance, and skip physical scrubs. If irritation persists, reduce frequency or consult a dermatologist.
Will double cleansing dry out my skin?
It shouldn’t if you use mild formulas and avoid hot water. Follow with a hydrating serum (e.g., hyaluronic acid) and moisturiser to lock moisture in.

Further Reading

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