Double Cleansing Explained (2026): What It Is and How to Do It
Does wearing sunscreen mean you need to wash your face twice? The evidence does not establish that rule. Double cleansing is an optional two-stage approach: remove makeup or a persistent product layer first, then use a facial cleanser.
What Double Cleansing Means
The term describes two cleansing stages in one routine. An oil or balm is a common first-step option, but it is not a universal requirement. For people with acne who wear makeup, the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) advises removing makeup before bed with an oil-free remover, followed by a gentle cleanser. That advice is not an endorsement of every cleansing oil. [2]
What the Research Actually Tested
A small study of 20 participants compared water, a foaming cleanser and a cleansing oil for removing tested sunscreens. The cleanser and oil both removed the non-waterproof product effectively; the oil removed more of the waterproof product than the cleanser. [1]
The study tested those washing methods separately, not an oil-then-cleanser sequence. Its findings do not prove that double cleansing prevents acne, improves dullness or is necessary for every sunscreen. Results from these particular products cannot settle how every formula will wash off.
A Gentle Approach
- Choose the removal step for the product you wore. Follow the remover's directions, including whether it goes on wet or dry skin. There is no fixed massage time prescribed here.
- If following makeup removal with a cleanser, keep it gentle. Use fingertips rather than scrubbing tools, rinse with lukewarm water and pat dry. AAD recommends a non-abrasive cleanser. [2] [3]
- Consider comfort afterward. AAD advises moisturizing dry or itchy skin. Irritation is not a cleansing goal. [3]
Is a Second Step Needed?
Do not choose two steps solely because a routine has that name. Think about the makeup or sunscreen being removed, the product directions and how your skin tolerates the process. The sunscreen study supports selecting a suitable remover, not automatically adding another wash. [1]
This guide does not promise that two steps will be gentler than one. If cleansing causes problems, seek advice from a dermatologist rather than adding more steps. [3]
Frequently Asked Questions
Is double cleansing required for all sunscreen?
No universal requirement is established by the study cited here. Removal depends on the products tested. [1]
Does double cleansing treat acne?
The sunscreen-removal study did not test double cleansing as an acne treatment. [1]
Must the first cleanser be an oil?
No. AAD advises an oil-free makeup remover followed by a gentle cleanser for acne-prone makeup users. [2]
Keep the Routine Practical
Use double cleansing as an option to evaluate, not a requirement or an acne treatment. Match the removal method to what you wore, follow its directions and avoid scrubbing. More steps are not a measure of better skincare.
Sources and Evidence
- Chen W, He M, Xie L, Li L. The optimal cleansing method for the removal of sunscreen: Water, cleanser or cleansing oil? Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology. 2020;19(1):180–184. doi:10.1111/jocd.12995. Original study; abstract reviewed, not full text.
- American Academy of Dermatology: I have acne! Is it okay to wear makeup? Official dermatologist guidance, not a clinical trial.
- American Academy of Dermatology: Face washing 101. Official dermatologist guidance, not a clinical trial.
Educational content, not medical advice. For individual skin concerns, consult a dermatologist.