If you’ve been mesmerized by the flawless, poreless, glass-like skin of Korean beauty influencers, you’re not alone. The secret behind this luminous skin trend is double cleansing—a skincare ritual that goes beyond your average face wash. To achieve glassy skin, double cleansing isn’t just a step; it’s a lifestyle.
In this blog post, we’ll explore what double cleansing is, why it’s essential for glowing skin, and recommend the best double cleansing products for that dewy, glassy finish. Whether you’re new to the routine or a skincare junkie, this guide will help you find the right products for your unique skin type.
What is Double Cleansing?
Double cleansing involves using two different types of cleansers, one after the other:
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First Cleanser – Oil-Based Cleanser: Removes oil-based impurities like sunscreen, makeup, sebum, and pollution.
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Second Cleanser – Water-Based Cleanser: Removes sweat, dirt, and residual grime, prepping your skin for serums and moisturizers.
This method ensures your skin is thoroughly cleansed, preventing clogged pores and promoting healthy cell turnover—two key components of glassy skin.
Why Double Cleansing is Essential for Glassy Skin
Glassy skin is defined by its hydrated, clear, and luminous appearance. It’s nearly impossible to achieve that glow if your pores are congested or your skin is dehydrated.
Here’s how double cleansing supports that radiant finish:
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Deep pore cleansing without over-stripping the skin.
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Removes stubborn makeup and sunscreen effectively.
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Boosts absorption of serums and moisturizers.
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Reduces breakouts and improves skin texture.
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Enhances overall skin clarity and brightness.
Now, let’s dive into the best double cleansing products for achieving glassy skin.
Best Oil-Based Cleansers for Step 1
1. Banila Co Clean It Zero Cleansing Balm Original
Best For: All skin types
Why It’s Great:
This cult-favorite balm transforms from a sherbet-like texture to a silky oil that effortlessly melts makeup and sunscreen. It contains papaya extract and acerola extract for gentle exfoliation and brightening.
✅ Hypoallergenic
✅ Gentle on sensitive skin
✅ Lightweight and non-greasy
Key Ingredients: Papaya extract, vitamin C, hot spring water
2. Then I Met You Living Cleansing Balm
Best For: Dry and dull skin
Why It’s Great:
Formulated with seaberry oil, persimmon extract, and olive oil, this luxurious balm nourishes while dissolving impurities. It’s a favorite in the K-beauty community for a reason.
✅ Promotes radiance
✅ Moisturizing formula
✅ Pleasant citrus scent
Key Ingredients: Sea buckthorn oil, olive oil, persimmon extract
3. DHC Deep Cleansing Oil
Best For: Normal to dry skin
Why It’s Great:
This Japanese oil cleanser is olive-oil based and melts off even waterproof makeup while keeping your skin moisturized.
✅ Rich in antioxidants
✅ Non-comedogenic
✅ Excellent for sensitive skin
Key Ingredients: Olive oil, rosemary leaf oil, vitamin E
4. Hanskin Pore Cleansing Oil – PHA
Best For: Oily and acne-prone skin
Why It’s Great:
This multitasking oil cleanser removes excess sebum while gently exfoliating thanks to PHA. It clears pores without stripping essential moisture.
✅ Gently exfoliates
✅ Controls oil
✅ Improves skin texture
Key Ingredients: Polyhydroxy acids (PHA), tea tree oil, jojoba seed oil
Best Water-Based Cleansers for Step 2
1. KraveBeauty Matcha Hemp Hydrating Cleanser
Best For: All skin types
Why It’s Great:
Gentle yet effective, this low pH gel cleanser soothes and cleans without disrupting your skin barrier. Matcha provides antioxidant benefits, making it perfect for stressed skin.
✅ Non-stripping
✅ Supports skin barrier
✅ Contains amino acids
Key Ingredients: Matcha, hemp seed oil, oats, panthenol
2. Cosrx Low pH Good Morning Gel Cleanser
Best For: Oily and combination skin
Why It’s Great:
This budget-friendly option is a holy grail for many. With a low pH and tea tree oil, it calms irritated skin while keeping breakouts at bay.
✅ Great for acne-prone skin
✅ Mild fragrance
✅ Balances skin’s pH
Key Ingredients: Tea tree oil, BHA, saccharomyces ferment
3. La Roche-Posay Toleriane Hydrating Gentle Cleanser
Best For: Dry and sensitive skin
Why It’s Great:
A creamy, non-foaming cleanser that hydrates and soothes. Ideal for skin that’s prone to dryness or sensitivity.
✅ Fragrance-free
✅ Dermatologist-recommended
✅ Restores skin’s natural moisture
Key Ingredients: Glycerin, ceramides, niacinamide
4. Glow Recipe Blueberry Bounce Gentle Cleanser
Best For: Dull and uneven skin
Why It’s Great:
This bouncy gel cleanser is packed with blueberry extract, AHAs, and hyaluronic acid to brighten, exfoliate, and hydrate all at once.
✅ Triple-action formula
✅ Brightens and smooths
✅ Works as a makeup remover and cleanser
Key Ingredients: Blueberry extract, lactic acid, glycolic acid, hyaluronic acid
How to Double Cleanse the Right Way
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Start with dry hands and face. Apply the oil cleanser and massage for 60–90 seconds.
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Emulsify with water—add a little water to your face and massage until the oil turns milky.
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Rinse thoroughly.
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Apply the water-based cleanser to damp skin, massage gently for 30–60 seconds.
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Rinse and pat dry.
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Follow with toner, serum, and moisturizer for optimal glow.
Double Cleansing Routine for Different Skin Types
✅ Oily or Acne-Prone Skin:
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Oil Cleanser: Hanskin Pore Cleansing Oil – PHA
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Water Cleanser: Cosrx Low pH Good Morning Gel Cleanser
✅ Dry or Dehydrated Skin:
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Oil Cleanser: Then I Met You Living Cleansing Balm
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Water Cleanser: La Roche-Posay Toleriane Hydrating Cleanser
✅ Combination Skin:
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Oil Cleanser: Banila Co Clean It Zero
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Water Cleanser: KraveBeauty Matcha Hemp Hydrating Cleanser
✅ Sensitive Skin:
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Oil Cleanser: DHC Deep Cleansing Oil
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Water Cleanser: La Roche-Posay or KraveBeauty
Pro Tips for Glassy Skin
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Exfoliate 1–2x a week to remove dead skin cells.
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Use a hydrating toner or essence after cleansing.
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Apply hyaluronic acid serum on damp skin for maximum hydration.
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Don’t skip moisturizer, even if your skin feels oily.
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Always wear sunscreen during the day.
Final Thoughts
Double cleansing is more than just a trend—it’s a skin-transforming ritual that preps your skin to absorb active ingredients better, avoid breakouts, and achieve that coveted glassy skin glow. By using the right oil and water-based cleansers for your skin type, you can gently detoxify, hydrate, and illuminate your complexion like never before.
Want to turn your nighttime skincare into a mini spa moment? Start with the right products from this list, and your mirror will thank you.
Which product are you excited to try first? Let us know in the comments or tag us in your skincare routine on Instagram!
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