Double Cleansing: What It Is, Why It Works, and How to Do It with JOAH
TL;DR: Double cleansing means using two cleansers in a row—first oil-based, then water-based—to lift everything from sunscreen and long-wear makeup to everyday buildup. Derms say it’s especially useful if you wear SPF and makeup daily or have oil-prone skin.
What is double cleansing?
It’s exactly what it sounds like—cleaning twice with two different formats. Step one: an oil or balm breaks down oil-soluble impurities (sebum, SPF, long-wear/waterproof makeup). Step two: a water-based cleanser lifts remaining water-soluble debris (sweat, grime) for a truly clean canvas.
Where did it come from?
The method is rooted in Japanese and Korean beauty rituals, where thorough-yet-gentle cleansing anchors healthy, bouncy skin. The K-beauty wave continues to shape UK routines in 2025, with layered cleansing/hydration now mainstream.
Why do it?
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Removes SPF + long-wear makeup more effectively than a single wash.
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Helps prevent clogged pores/breakouts by clearing oil and debris before bed.
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Improves absorption of what you apply next (serums, moisturiser).
Tip: Most people only need to double cleanse at night; if you’re bare-faced in the morning, a single gentle cleanse can be enough.
The JOAH Double Cleanse (2 steps, 2 minutes)
Step 1 — Melt it off with JOAH Ceramide Shield Cleansing Balm
Massage onto dry skin to dissolve makeup and SPF. This sorbet-texture balm uses an oil-gel network to break down waterproof makeup while Ceramide 3 and Deca Plus HA (multi-weight hyaluronate) help protect the skin barrier and hydrate; DERMA-CLERA adds soothing care. Rinse well.
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Step 2 — Sweep away residue with JOAH Cooling Powder Cleanser
Add a few drops of water to the powder to foam, then cleanse. This pH-balanced formula uses enzymes for gentle exfoliation and urea for a cooling, refreshing feel—leaving skin clean (not squeaky). Vegan & cruelty-free.
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Who should double cleanse?
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You wear SPF and/or makeup daily, especially long-wear or waterproof.
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You have oil-prone or acne-prone skin and struggle with congestion. (Many derms find it helpful; adjust frequency to tolerance.)
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You want your actives to penetrate better (retinoids, vitamin C, peptides).
If your skin is very dry or sensitive, keep step 2 gentle and start 3–4 nights a week, watching for signs of over-cleansing (tightness, irritation).
FAQs
Do I need to double cleanse every morning?
No. Evening is the priority (to remove SPF/makeup). Morning can be a single gentle cleanse.
Can I use one cleanser twice?
You can, but using two different types (oil/balm + water-based) is more effective at removing both oil- and water-soluble debris.
Isn’t oil bad for oily skin?
Not necessarily. Oils/balms dissolve sebum and sunscreen; the second cleanse lifts residue. Choose a gentle step-two and adjust frequency.
Your 30-second routine recap
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Ceramide Shield Cleansing Balm → melt SPF/makeup while cushioning the barrier.
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Powder Cleanser → pH-balanced foam with light enzymatic exfoliation; skin feels clean, not tight.
Follow with your serum/moisturiser, and SPF in the AM.
