The Art of the Double Cleanse: Why It’s the Most Important Step in Your Skincare Ritual

Cleansing your face might seem like the simplest part of your skincare routine — but when done right, it becomes a ritual of release, renewal, and balance. At Glow Collective Skin, we’re all about intentional skincare, and that starts with understanding how to cleanse properly.

Let’s go deeper into why cleansing is more than just removing the day’s grime — and how to do it like your skin deserves.

Why Cleansing Properly Matters

Cleansing is your skin’s reset button. It removes makeup, sunscreen, pollution, excess oil, sweat, and bacteria — all things that can clog pores, dull your complexion, and trigger breakouts.

But more than that, proper cleansing prepares your skin to absorb the rest of your routine. Without it, your serums and moisturisers simply won’t penetrate as deeply or work as effectively.

Step One: The Power of Double Cleansing

If you’re not already double cleansing, this is your sign.

What is Double Cleansing?

Double cleansing is a two-step process:

  1. First Cleanse: Use an oil-based cleanser to dissolve makeup, sunscreen, sebum, and impurities.

  2. Second Cleanse: Follow with a water-based gel or cream cleanser to remove residue and deeply cleanse the pores.

This method is a staple in Korean skincare and is especially effective at keeping your skin clear, balanced, and hydrated — without over-stripping it.

Tip: Even if you don’t wear makeup, SPF is designed to stick to the skin, so it needs to be gently dissolved with oils. This step is non-negotiable.

How Long Should You Cleanse For?

Ever rushed through a cleanse and called it a day? Your skin deserves better.

  • First cleanse (oil-based): Massage gently for 60 seconds, focusing on areas where makeup and SPF build up — usually the T-zone.

  • Second cleanse (water-based): Another 60 seconds of slow, circular movements, making sure to reach the hairline, jawline, and sides of the nose.

That’s a full 2-minute ritual that not only clears the skin but stimulates circulation, lymphatic drainage, and sets the tone for glowing skin.

Oil Pulling for the Skin? Absolutely.

This might sound like something you’d do with coconut oil for oral health, but oil pulling for the face is real — and transformative.

When massaged into dry skin, an oil cleanser binds to impurities in your pores (including hardened sebum), softening congestion and gently pulling them out over time. It's like detoxing the skin without the harsh scrubbing.

How Should Your Skin Feel After Cleansing?

Your skin should feel:

  • Clean, but not squeaky

  • Soft, but not slippery

  • Balanced, not tight or dry

If your skin feels tight or itchy after cleansing, it may be a sign that:

  • Your cleanser is too harsh or drying

  • Your skin barrier is compromised

  • You’re cleansing for too long or with hot water

Tight skin doesn’t mean clean — it usually means dehydration or a damaged barrier. Switch to a gentle, pH-balanced formula and always follow up with hydration.

Our Recommended Ritual

At Glow Collective Skin, we suggest creating a moment of calm around your cleanse — treat it like a mini facial at home.

Step 1: KRX Fermented Botanical Cleansing Oil
Removes SPF and makeup effortlessly while feeding your skin with fermented plant extracts.

Step 2: KRX Gentle Enzyme Cleanser
Balances and refreshes the skin with amino acids and a mild, non-stripping formula.

Follow up with:

  • A hydrating mist or toner

  • Your favourite KRX serum

  • Moisturiser to lock in hydration

  • SPF in the morning (always)

Glowing Skin Starts with a Thoughtful Cleanse

Skincare isn’t about perfection — it’s about ritual. The way you cleanse sets the tone for everything else. So take the time, choose the right textures, and let your cleanse be a moment of connection between you and your skin.

Shop Cleansers →

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