Double cleansing is definitely a regular part of my nighttime skincare routine. For the first cleanse, I love using either a cleansing balm or a cleansing oil. I used to only love cleansing oils, but I think I was just trying the wrong ones, because I definitely love cleansing balms now.
WHAT IS A FIRST CLEANSE?
The concept behind the first cleanse has been attributed to the ever popular Korean skin care routines. With the first cleanse, you’re able to remove and dissolve makeup and grime. The first cleanse is then followed up with a second cleanse, which is meant to remove anything left behind.
I have definitely done a cleanse before where when I wipe my face, there is still some makeup remnants left. With a double cleanse, you’re able to decrease any potential dirt or makeup that may be left initially.
There are different types of products that can be used for a first cleanse: cleansing balms, cleansing oils, micellar water, or makeup wipes. Although I don’t really recommend using a makeup wipe, which involves a lot of tugging of the skin and can be quite harsh.
CLEANSING OIL VS CLEANSING BALM
As the name suggests, cleansing oils are already in oil form. They are easy to use, and I find that using cleansing oils decrease the time that is needed to clean. Cleansing balms need to be melted in becoming an oil on the skin.
I never really liked cleansing balms previously, but I think it’s because I wasn’t using the right one. The one that turned me off from cleansing balms is the Inkey List Oat Cleansing Balm. It was such a hyped and well loved product that I didn’t work for me. I didn’t try cleansing balms again until I tried Farmacy’s Green Clean.
When I tried Farmacy’s Green Clean, I fell in love with cleansing balms. It left my skin clean and soft and didn’t leave an icky film. When I tried the Inkey List’s Oat Cleansing Balm, it felt like there was always some product left on my skin despite multiple attempts to wash it.
I think finding the right product for your skin type is important for even the first cleanse. It sets the right tone for your whole nighttime routine.
Recently, I emptied my Dermalogica Precleanse and opened a new first cleanse product. The one I’ve started using is the Versed Day Dissolve.
DERMALOGICA PRECLEANSE
The Dermalogica Precleanse is everything I love about a cleansing oil. It is so easy to use and it breaks down makeup so smoothly. It doesn’t feel harsh on the skin and the combination of oils just feels amazing.
I will say that it can be pretty expensive for a first cleanser. The Precleanse is priced at $49 for a 5.1 oz bottle. It does last for a significant amount of time, and if you want to splurge on your first cleanser I would definitely try it out.
Some key ingredients include: Vitamin E and Rice Bran Extract, Kukui Nut Oil, Borage Seed Oil and Apricot Kernel Oil.
Available at Sephora, Ulta, and Dermalogica starting from $15 (mini) to $77 (large).
VERSED DAY DISSOLVE
I recently just started using the Versed Day Dissolve Cleansing Balm since I finished my Dermalogica Precleanse. I think that it’s a great affordable option for a first cleanse. Versed is available at my Target, so I think it’s more accessible as well.
It’s just a good basic cleanser. Think of a Cerave cleanser, similarly, it’s just a good basic to have. I have more expensive cleansing balms that I have compared it to, and in terms of actually cleansing the skin, it’s on par. In terms of experience, it’s hard not to compare it to Farmacy’s Green Clean or the Elemis Cleansing Balm, but those are significantly more expensive in comparison.
Some key ingredients include: Vitamin E, Jojoba Oil, Avocado Oil, Eucalyptus Oil, and Clove Leaf Oil.
One thing I do like about Versed is that their packaging is made from recycled plastic, so it makes me want to support the brand more.
Available at Versed, Target, and Amazon for $17.99. (10% off Versed with REALSKINDIARIES10)
OVERALL
I definitely recommend double cleansing, even if you don’t wear makeup daily. Sunscreen, which is constantly reapplied daily (every two hours), can just pile on the skin. Making sure to remove both makeup, sunscreen, and any other dirt or grime is important in any clear skin journey.
