La Doppia Detersione: cos’è, perché è importante farla e quali prodotti utilizzare

Double Cleansing: what it is, why it's important, and which products to use

| Scritto da Ilaria Zanfranceschi

In the skincare universe, double cleansing is establishing itself as an essential step in the facial beauty routine for those who desire radiant and perfectly clean skin. This technique, originating from Japan and South Korea, not only removes every trace of impurities and makeup but also prepares the face to fully benefit from subsequent treatments.

In this article, we will explore how double cleansing can transform your beauty routine, improving the effectiveness of subsequently applied products and giving your skin a healthier and more radiant appearance.

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What is Double Cleansing

Double cleansing is a beauty practice that originated from Korean and Japanese skincare, where it was perfected to ensure a deep and delicate cleansing of the face. It is said that Japanese geishas used cleansing oils and then foaming cleansers like mousses to remove white makeup. This approach guaranteed exceptional results, so much so that it was subsequently adopted and incorporated into the ten fundamental steps of the beauty routine.

The double cleansing method is based on the use of two types of cleansers: an oil-based one and a foaming one. But before we see exactly how it works and why it should be considered a fundamental step in one's skincare routine, let's talk about the importance of skin cleansing.

The hydrolipidic film is a crucial component of the skin, composed of sebum, dead cells, and bacteria, which acts as a natural protective barrier. This layer prevents water from evaporating from the skin's surface, operating similarly to a lid placed over a pot. The nature of the hydrolipidic film — which can be rich or poor in sebum, more or less fluid — determines whether the skin will be classified as normal, dry, combination, or oily.
Washing the face, therefore, is not just a matter of hygiene, but an act of balance that aims to remove unwanted accumulations while keeping this essential barrier intact.

In the morning, cleansing helps eliminate excess sebum, residues of skincare products applied overnight, and toxins produced during the night's regeneration process. This not only purifies the skin but also prepares it to better receive and absorb the cosmetic products that will follow.

In the evening, facial cleansing becomes even more important: it's the time to remove makeup, pollution particles, and excess sebum that, if left on the skin, can clog pores, cause inflammation, promote the appearance of imperfections, and accelerate the signs of aging. Evening cleansing not only cleanses but also prepares the skin to more effectively absorb the active ingredients of serums and creams, optimizing the benefits of night treatments.

How to Double Cleanse?

The secret to double cleansing the face lies in using two different cleansers: the first, oil-based, and the second, water-based or an emulsion.

DOUBLE CLEANSING STEPS

  • Step 1: affinity cleansing

    The first step of the double cleansing method involves using an oil-based facial cleanser that works by "affinity," dissolving and removing makeup, resistant sunscreens, excess sebum, impurities, and pollution. The key lies in simple chemistry: "like dissolves like." The oils in the cleanser attract other oils on the skin, including the oily substances in makeup and sebum, solubilizing them and preparing the skin for the second step.

  • Step 2: Cleansing for contrast

    The second step involves using a "contrasting" product, a cleanser with surfactants, to remove any residue from the first phase. Surfactants work by eliminating water-soluble dirt, such as sweat and environmental impurities.
    This step, therefore, not only deeply cleanses the skin but also ensures the removal of any oily residue left by the first step, leaving the skin fresh and radiant without irritating it.

Why Double Cleansing is Important

According to recent research, on average, most people spend only 20 seconds on facial cleansing, often relying on simple makeup remover wipes.

However, this approach is inadequate for completely removing layers of impurities such as sebum, makeup, and pollutants, which can leave the skin dull, lackluster, and congested.
Double cleansing offers an effective solution to this problem: the advantage of this method is that, despite its deep cleansing ability, it remains extremely gentle on the skin, reducing the risk of irritation that can accompany more aggressive cleansing methods.

Suitable for all skin types, including sensitive or mature skin, it not only clears pores and makes the skin visibly clearer and brighter, but also prepares the epidermis to more effectively receive and absorb subsequent treatments. Serums and creams can then perform their action with greater efficacy, as the skin is clean and receptive to active ingredients. This maximizes the overall benefits of skincare products, significantly contributing to the improvement of skin health and appearance.

When to Double Cleanse

First of all, it's important to specify that a lot depends on your skin type. Generally, double cleansing is more suitable in the evening, to thoroughly remove makeup, pollutants, and residues accumulated during the day, preparing the skin for nighttime regeneration.

For those with oily skin, it may be appropriate to include double cleansing in their morning routine as well, to remove excess sebum produced overnight: this will help keep pores clear and reduce shine throughout the day. Conversely, for those with dry or sensitive skin, a thorough evening cleanse is generally sufficient, thus avoiding further stressing the skin in the morning.

If your evening routine includes intensive treatments, such as applying a sleeping mask to nourish and hydrate the skin, in the morning you might need to use an oil-based cleanser to completely remove residues, thus ensuring a deep cleanse of the skin upon waking.

Double Cleansing step-by-step with Terme di Comano Skincare

For a deep, skin-respecting cleanse, Terme di Comano Skincare has developed a double cleansing system that combines two products: the High Tolerance Cleansing Oil and the Normalizing Cleansing Gel.

STEP 1: High-tolerance cleansing oil

Begin your cleansing routine by applying the High Tolerance Cleansing Oil. This extremely gentle product is ideal for effectively removing make-up and freeing the skin from impurities and pollutants, without compromising its natural balance. Upon contact with water, the oil transforms into a soft emulsion that cleanses deeply without irritating, leaving the skin soft and hydrated. It is particularly suitable for use on the entire face and body, ensuring tolerance and respect for the skin barrier.
Apply a small amount of oil to a dry face, massage gently to dissolve make-up and impurities, emulsify with a little water, and rinse thoroughly.

Step 2: Normalizing Cleansing Gel or Cleansing Milk Cream

After removing oily residues and make-up traces with the oil, move on to the Normalizing Cleansing Gel. This gel, specifically for combination and impure skin, is formulated with plant-derived surfactants that gently cleanse the skin. Active ingredients, including Comano thermal water, Prebiotic System, and aloe vera, work synergistically to normalize and rebalance sebum secretions, minimize the appearance of pores, and even out the complexion. The result is incredibly clean, fresh, and radiant skin.

As an alternative to the cleansing gel, Cleansing Milk Cream can be used.
Suitable for the most sensitive skin, it gently cleanses the face, helping to remove impurities and make-up in a single step. It contains liposomal hyaluronic acid and Comano thermal water, which improve skin hydration and vitality, leaving it even, radiant, and visibly softer.
Use the cleansing milk cream as the second step of the double cleansing routine by applying it to the face and massaging gently. Finally, rinse thoroughly with warm water.

Related products

  • Cleansing Oil High Tolerability

    Cleansing Oil High Tolerability

    Dry, sensitive skin with irritation tendency

    Gentle cleansing oil that in contact with water creates a soft emulsion that respects the skin natural barrier and guarantees a high tolerance. Its delicate formula, without foaming agents, cleanses the skin preserving the...

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  • Normalizing Cleansing Gel

    Gel Detergente Normalizzante

    Physiological make up remover – combination, oily skin types

    Soft cleansing gel formulated with plant-derived surfactants, which respect the balance of the skin’s hydrolipid film. Delicately cleanses the face, helping to remove impurities and any traces of make-up. The active...

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  • Cleansing Milkcream

    Crema Latte Detergente

    Physiological make up remover - all skin types

    A soft cream formula that delicately cleanses the face, helping to remove impurities and make-up in a single wipe. The combination of liposomal hyaluronic acid, Comano thermal spring water and prebiotic system,...

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  • Beauty Routine Cleansing Milk

    Beauty Routine Cleansing Milk

    THE BEAUTY ROUTINE CLEANSING INCLUDES
    Thermal water spray 250 ml
    Cleansing milk cream
    Micro-exfoliating facial scrub
    Water crystal mask

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Our Experts' Tips

Below, we will address some of the most common doubts about this popular Korean skincare practice, offering clarifications and advice to optimize the use of this technique in your daily beauty routine.

Who is double cleansing suitable for?

One of the main advantages of double cleansing, as mentioned above, is its gentleness, which makes it suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin.
It proves particularly effective for those who regularly use heavy make-up or sun protection products with mineral filters such as titanium dioxide or zinc oxide. These products tend to resist normal cleansing, but with a double pass, the first oil-based and the second water-based, it is possible to remove them completely, improving the effectiveness of subsequent skincare treatments. Furthermore, mature skin can also greatly benefit from double cleansing. Thanks to the combination of the oil phase and the water phase, it is possible to achieve nourished and perfectly cleansed skin, even in the presence of wrinkles and signs of aging.

Is it also recommended for those with oily or acne-prone skin? Even for those with oily or acne-prone skin, double cleansing can be very beneficial. By initially using an oil-based cleanser, excess sebum can be effectively dissolved without irritating the skin, which could happen with stronger cleansers. It is important, however, to consult a dermatologist in cases of severe acne before introducing new products into your beauty routine.

Can I double cleanse even if I have dry and delicate skin?

Despite its effectiveness in deep cleansing, double cleansing is gentle and suitable for sensitive, dry, or delicate skin. The secret lies in avoiding abrasive tools like wipes or cotton pads and opting for a gentler approach: an oil cleanser followed by a foaming cleanser. Ideally, this process should be limited to the evening routine to avoid excessively stressing the skin during the day.

How many times a day should I double cleanse?

Generally, it is recommended to double cleanse once a day, during the evening routine. This time is ideal as the skin tends to accumulate impurities and make-up traces throughout the day. A deep evening cleanse ensures that the skin is clean and ready for the nighttime regeneration process, without overloading it with excessive procedures that could irritate it.

For those with oily skin, it may be appropriate to include double cleansing in the morning routine as well, to remove excess sebum produced overnight. Furthermore, if intensive treatments, such as face masks, were applied the night before, it is advisable to use an oil-based cleanser in the morning to completely eliminate residues, thus ensuring a deep cleansing of the skin upon waking.

Following these tips can help maximize the benefits of double cleansing, ensuring clean, healthy skin that is well-prepared to receive the other steps of your beauty routine.


In conclusion, double cleansing goes far beyond a simple beauty ritual: it represents a true ally for the health of facial skin. With its deep effectiveness, while maintaining extreme gentleness, it transforms the cleansing routine into a pleasant and relaxing experience.

Never forget the importance of removing every trace of make-up before going to bed. Skipping this step can lead to clogged pores, leaving the skin dull, grey, and more susceptible to the appearance of blackheads and other imperfections. Incorporating double cleansing into your evening routine means ensuring your skin an ideal base to maintain a healthy, bright, and radiant appearance, as well as making it ready to absorb the subsequent steps of your skincare routine in the best possible way.

A small gesture that can make a big difference in your daily beauty routine.