Double Cleansing for Sensitive Skin: What It Is + Why It Works
If you’ve ever felt like your skin still isn’t clean after washing — but also worry that cleansing too much will leave it dry, tight, or red — you’re not alone. That’s exactly where double cleansing comes in.
Originally popularized in K-beauty routines, double cleansing involves using two cleansers in your routine:
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An oil-based cleanser to dissolve sunscreen, makeup, and excess oil
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A water-based cleanser to rinse away impurities and provide a deeper clean
But here’s the thing: most double cleansing routines aren’t made for sensitive skin. Harsh surfactants, fragrance, or over-cleansing can leave your skin barrier vulnerable.
We created a gentle, plant-powered version of the double cleanse — perfect for delicate, reactive skin types. Here's how it works and why it might be the reset your skin needs.
Why Double Cleanse at All?
Even if you don’t wear makeup, your skin builds up layers of:
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SPF
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Natural oils
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Airborne pollutants
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Dead skin cells
A single cleanser often isn’t enough to fully remove these — especially if it's formulated to be “gentle.” That’s why many people experience clogged pores or flakiness despite washing daily.
Double cleansing is a simple way to get a thorough clean without over-stripping. The first step melts buildup. The second step rinses it all away — so your serums can actually penetrate.
Why Most Double Cleanses Don’t Work for Sensitive Skin
Traditional double cleansing systems often include:
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Foaming cleansers with sulfates
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Essential oils or synthetic fragrance
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Harsh exfoliants (acids or gritty scrubs)
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Stripping toners
For anyone with a sensitive, compromised, or allergy-prone barrier, that’s a recipe for disaster.
Our Solution: A Gentle, Skin-Loving Double Cleanse
We formulated our Double Cleanse Duo to solve this exact problem. It’s ideal for:
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Sensitive and reactive skin
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Dry or mature skin types
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Barrier repair routines
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People who live in urban or high-pollution areas
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Daily SPF wearers
Step 1 → Effortless Enzyme Cleanser
An oil-based, dissolvable cleanser that melts away SPF and makeup without rubbing or tugging. Massage into dry skin, add a few drops of water and it will turn milky and start to dissolve. Rinse with warm water for a clean, fresh feel.
Key ingredients: jojoba, squalane, papaya enzyme, rice bran
Step 2 → Illuminating Powder Cleanser
A water-activated, powder-to-milk cleanser that brightens and gently exfoliates with ascorbic acid and fruit enzymes — no foaming, no stinging.
Key ingredients: oat flour, marshmallow root, rice flour, ascorbic acid, strawberry enzyme
The result? Smooth, radiant skin that actually feels clean — not stripped or sensitized.
How to Start a Double Cleanse Routine
If you’re new to double cleansing, ease in slowly.
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Start with 2–3 nights per week to see how your skin responds
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Use gentle, upward motions and rinse well with lukewarm water
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Follow with a hydrating serum or facial oil (like our Luminous Liquid or Evening Gold)
And if you’re unsure whether it’s right for you? Start with our mini sizes to test how your skin responds before committing to full sizes.
Ready to Try It?
We’ve bundled the Effortless Enzyme Cleanser + Illuminating Powder into one easy, skin-loving system. Shop the Double Cleanse System. It’s our most gentle, effective way to reset your skin.
💡 Ready to see how this routine fits into your skincare goals?
Read: Our Double Cleanse System: The 2-Step Routine Sensitive Skin Has Been Waiting For