The Complete Korean Double Cleansing Method: Step-by-Step Guide (2025)
If you’ve ever wondered how Korean women maintain such clear, glowing skin, double cleansing is one of their best-kept secrets. It’s not complicated, it’s not time-consuming, and it might be the single most important change you can make to your skincare routine.
But here’s the catch: most people do it wrong. They skip steps, use the wrong products, or don’t understand why they’re doing it in the first place.
This guide will change that.
What Is Double Cleansing?
Double cleansing is exactly what it sounds like: washing your face twice with two different types of cleansers.
First cleanse: Oil-based cleanser (balm, oil, or micellar water) Second cleanse: Water-based cleanser (foam, gel, or cream)
Each cleanser has a specific job, and that’s why you need both.
What Is Double Cleansing?
Double cleansing is exactly what it sounds like: washing your face twice with two different types of cleansers.
First cleanse: Oil-based cleanser (balm, oil, or micellar water) Second cleanse: Water-based cleanser (foam, gel, or cream)
Each cleanser has a specific job, and that’s why you need both.
The Science: Why Two Cleansers?
Here’s the chemistry lesson that will change how you think about cleansing:
Oil dissolves oil. Your sunscreen, makeup, sebum, and many pollutants are oil-based. Water-based cleansers alone can’t effectively break down these substances. This is basic chemistry—like dissolves like.
Water removes water-soluble debris. Sweat, dirt, and remaining cleanser residue are water-soluble and need a water-based cleanser to be fully removed.
One cleanser can’t do both jobs effectively. That’s not a marketing gimmick—it’s science.
Why You Need to Double Cleanse (Even Without Makeup)
“But I don’t wear makeup, so I don’t need to double cleanse.”
Wrong. Here’s what’s on your face even on a “bare” face day:
- Sunscreen (and you better be wearing it)
- Sebum (your skin’s natural oil)
- Sweat
- Dead skin cells
- Environmental pollutants
- Bacteria
- Dust and debris
A single water-based cleanser struggles to remove oil-based sunscreen. When SPF isn’t fully removed, it can:
- Clog pores
- Cause breakouts
- Create a film that prevents your skincare from absorbing
- Lead to dull, congested skin
The bottom line: If you wear sunscreen (which you absolutely should), you need to double cleanse.
The Step-by-Step Double Cleansing Method
Step 1: The First Cleanse (Oil-Based)
Goal: Remove makeup, sunscreen, excess sebum, and oil-based impurities
Products to use:
- Cleansing balm
- Cleansing oil
- Micellar water (lighter option)
How to do it?
| Step | Method | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Step 1 | Start with DRY hands and DRY face | This is crucial. Water prevents oil-based cleansers from working properly. |
| Step 2 | Dispense product |
|
| Step 3 | Apply to face |
|
| Step 4 | Massage for 60-90 seconds |
|
| Step 5 | Emulsify (for balms and oils) |
|
| Step 6 | Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water |
|
Pro tip: If you wear heavy eye makeup, let your oil cleanser sit on closed eyes for 10-15 seconds before massaging to minimize tugging.
Step 2: The Second Cleanse (Water-Based)
Goal: Remove any remaining cleanser, sweat, dirt, and water-soluble debris
Products to use:
How to do it?
| Step | Method | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Step 1 | Your face should still be damp from the first cleanse | Keep your skin slightly wet to prepare for the water-based cleanser. |
| Step 2 | Dispense cleanser | Amount varies by product (usually a pump or dime-sized amount). |
| Step 3 | Create a lather (if it’s a foaming cleanser) |
|
| Step 4 | Massage for 30-60 seconds |
|
| Step 5 | Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water | Make sure no cleanser residue remains. |
| Step 6 | Pat dry with a clean towel | Don’t rub—patting is gentler on your skin. |
Pro tip: Your skin should feel clean, soft, and comfortable—not tight, squeaky, or stripped. If it feels dry, your second cleanser might be too harsh.
Choosing the Right Products for Your Skin Type
For Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
First Cleanser:
- APRILSKIN Carrotene IPMP Hydromelt Cleansing Balm (contains anti-acne IPMP)
- Lightweight cleansing oils
- Look for non-comedogenic formulas
Second Cleanser:
- APRILSKIN Pink Aloe Facial Polish Cleanser
- Foaming cleansers with salicylic acid or tea tree
- Gel cleansers for deeper cleaning
Why these work: IPMP fights acne-causing bacteria, while the Pink Aloe cleanser gently exfoliates without stripping.
Why these work: IPMP fights acne-causing bacteria, while the Pink Aloe cleanser gently exfoliates without stripping.
For Dry/Sensitive Skin
First Cleanser:
- Nourishing cleansing balms with shea butter
- Cleansing oils rich in antioxidants
- Avoid products with fragrance
Second Cleanser:
Why these work: These formulas clean without stripping your skin’s natural moisture barrier.
For Combination Skin
First Cleanser:
- Balanced cleansing balms (like APRILSKIN Carrotene)
- Medium-weight cleansing oils
Second Cleanser:
Why these work: They address both oily and dry areas without over-treating either.
For Mature Skin
First Cleanser:
Second Cleanser:
Why these work: These prevent moisture loss while still properly cleansing.
Common Double Cleansing Mistakes (And How to Fix Them)
Mistake #1: Using the Wrong Product Order
Wrong: Water-based cleanser first, then oil-based Right: Always oil-based first, water-based second
Why it matters: Oil cleansers can’t work on a face that’s already been washed with water-based products.
Mistake #2: Applying Oil Cleanser to Wet Skin
Wrong: Wetting your face before applying the first cleanser Right: Apply to completely dry skin
Why it matters: Water creates a barrier that prevents oil from properly dissolving makeup and sunscreen.
Mistake #3: Not Massaging Long Enough
Wrong: Quick 10-second massage Right: 60-90 seconds for first cleanse, 30-60 for second
Why it matters: The cleansers need time to break down and bind to impurities.
Mistake #4: Using Hot Water
Wrong: Steaming hot water to “open pores” (pores don’t open and close) Right: Lukewarm water
Why it matters: Hot water strips your skin’s natural oils and can cause irritation and broken capillaries.
Mistake #5: Skipping Double Cleanse on “Lazy” Days
Wrong: Just using makeup wipes or a single cleanser when tired Right: Always double cleanse if you wore sunscreen or makeup
Why it matters: Incomplete cleansing leads to clogged pores, breakouts, and dull skin over time.
Mistake #6: Using the Same Cleanser Twice
Wrong: Washing with the same foaming cleanser twice Right: One oil-based, one water-based cleanser
Why it matters: Two water-based cleansers can’t properly remove oil-based products and will over-strip your skin.
Mistake #7: Over-Cleansing
Wrong: Doing a full double cleanse morning and night Right: Double cleanse at night; single cleanse (water-based only) in the morning
Why it matters: Morning skin only needs to remove overnight oil and prep for skincare. Over-cleansing can damage your moisture barrier.
When to Double Cleanse
| Always Double Cleanse | Single Cleanse Is Fine |
|---|---|
✓
Evening/before bed
✓
After wearing sunscreen
✓
After wearing makeup
✓
After exercising with sunscreen on
✓
After being in polluted environments |
✓
Morning routine (unless you applied nighttime oils/occlusives)
✓
Mid-day refresh (if needed)
✓
Days you truly wore nothing on your face (rare!) |
The Perfect Double Cleansing Routine Timeline
Total time needed: 3-5 minutes
Here’s a realistic timeline:
- First cleanse: 2-3 minutes (application + massage + emulsify + rinse)
- Second cleanse: 1-2 minutes (application + massage + rinse)
That’s less time than scrolling Instagram, and the payoff is significantly better skin.
Troubleshooting: Common Issues
“My skin feels tight after double cleansing”
Problem: Your second cleanser is too harsh Solution: Switch to a gentler, low-pH cleanser or cream cleanser
“I’m breaking out more since starting double cleansing”
Problem: Either purging (temporary) or the products don’t suit your skin Solution:
- Give it 2-4 weeks to see if it’s purging
- Check if your cleansers are comedogenic
- Make sure you’re rinsing thoroughly
“My skin feels oily after the first cleanse”
Problem: You’re not properly emulsifying or rinsing Solution: Spend more time on the emulsification step and rinse more thoroughly
“It takes too long”
Problem: You’re over-thinking it Solution: Set a timer for 3 minutes. Once you establish the habit, it becomes automatic.
Double Cleansing for Different Scenarios
After the Gym
- Quick cleanse with micellar water (if you can’t do a full cleanse immediately)
- Follow with proper double cleanse when you get home
Travel/On-the-Go
- Bring cleansing balm samples or a small oil cleanser
- Use hotel towels or disposable face cloths
- Don’t skip it just because you’re traveling
Lazy Girl Method (When You’re Exhausted)
- Keep micellar water by your bed for absolute emergencies
- BUT still do proper double cleanse the next morning
- Remember: going to bed with sunscreen/makeup is worse than any “lazy” cleanse
Building Your Double Cleansing Kit
Here’s what you actually need:
Essential:
- 1 oil-based first cleanser ([APRILSKIN Carrotene Cleansing Balm])
- 1 water-based second cleanser ([APRILSKIN Pink Aloe Cleanser])
- Clean, soft towel
Optional but helpful:
- Cleansing spatula (usually included with balms)
- Headband to keep hair out of face
- Facial cleansing brush for second cleanse (use gently)
Budget: $30-50 for both cleansers that will last 2-3 months
The 30-Day Double Cleansing Challenge
Want to see real results? Commit to proper double cleansing every night for 30 days.
What you’ll notice:
Week 1: Skin feels cleaner, makeup/sunscreen actually comes off Week 2: Fewer breakouts, pores look smaller Week 3: Skin texture improves, products absorb better Week 4: Overall glow, more even skin tone
Track your progress: Take photos at Day 0, 15, and 30 to see the difference.
Final Thoughts: Is Double Cleansing Worth It?
After years of following this method, my honest answer is: absolutely yes.
Double cleansing isn’t a trendy Korean beauty hack—it’s a fundamental skincare practice rooted in science. The proof is in the results: clearer skin, better product absorption, and fewer breakouts.
The investment: 3-5 minutes each evening The payoff: Significantly better skin
If you’re serious about skincare, this is non-negotiable.
Ready to start double cleansing?
Shop APRILSKIN Carrotene Cleansing Balm for your first cleanse Shop APRILSKIN Pink Aloe Cleanser for your second cleanse
