Why One Cleanse Isn't Enough: The Case for Double Cleansing

lauren6770
Sep 11
2 min read

Updated: Sep 22

When it comes to skincare, cleansing is often the most overlooked step—but it’s also the most crucial. If you’re still relying on a single cleanse (or worse, just a makeup wipe), your skin may not be as clean as you think. At Clear Complexion Skincare, we believe that radiant, healthy skin starts with a deep, effective cleanse—and that means double cleansing.

Let’s break down why one cleanse isn’t enough, the dangers of using the wrong tools, and

how to build a smarter cleansing routine that actually supports your skin.

Why One Cleanse Just Doesn’t Cut It

Throughout the day, your skin accumulates a lot: makeup, sunscreen, pollution, oil, sweat, and bacteria. A single cleanse may remove surface grime, but it rarely gets deep enough to unclog pores or remove stubborn buildup.

Double cleansing ensures you’re removing all layers of dirt and oil—without over-stripping the skin. The first cleanse dissolves surface impurities like makeup and sunscreen, while the second cleanse gets deeper, targeting your pores and prepping your skin for active ingredients in your serums and moisturizers.

A woman satisfied with her use of Clear Complexion Face Cleanser

The Right Way to Double Cleanse

At Clear Complexion Skincare, we recommend the following routine for a thorough but gentle cleanse:

1️⃣ First Cleanse: Our Calming Gel Cleanser

Our Calming Gel Cleanser is the perfect first step—it’s lightweight, non-stripping, and formulated with soothing ingredients to help melt away makeup, oil, and daily grime without disrupting your skin barrier.

2️⃣ Second Cleanse: Repeat with Calming Gel or Switch to Our Enzyme Cleanser

You can follow up with a second round of our Calming Gel Cleanser, or for a deeper clean, use our Enzyme Cleanser. This gentle exfoliating cleanser helps slough off dead skin cells and unclog pores, leaving your complexion smooth, fresh, and perfectly prepped for your next skincare steps.

Skip the Makeup Wipes (Seriously)

Makeup wipes may seem convenient, but they often spread bacteria, cause irritation, and don’t actually clean your skin. Most just smear makeup and debris around your face without properly removing it. Worse, they can contain harsh chemicals and fragrances that strip your skin and compromise your barrier.

Be Picky About What You Use to Dry Your Face

Even if you're double cleansing, using a regular bath towel to dry your face can undo all your hard work. Towels can harbor bacteria, dead skin cells, and other impurities, especially if they hang in damp bathrooms and aren’t washed frequently.

Instead, reach for:

Disposable soft paper towels, or
Clean Skin Club Towels – biodegradable, ultra-soft, and designed specifically for clean, safe facial use.

These options are hygienic, gentle, and help prevent breakouts caused by bacteria transfer.

The Clear Complexion Takeaway

Your cleanser does more than just remove makeup—it sets the tone for your entire skincare routine. A proper double cleanse using clean tools can make a noticeable difference in your skin’s clarity, texture, and overall health.