I’m all about a simple skincare routine, because the active ingredients and actual formulations you deliver to your skin are more important than the number of steps in your regimen. It’s essential to remove all traces of dirt, makeup and sunscreen not only to keep pores clear, but to set the stage for serums and moisturizers that follow—and one small additional cleansing step can go a long way in terms of the health and appearance of your skin.
If you wear makeup—and/or apply sunscreen daily as you should—your skin can likely benefit from a double-cleanse. We’re only talking about an extra minute or so, and this two-step cleansing process ensures your skin is free and clear of any lingering debris at the end of the day.
If you have oily or acne-prone skin, start with a micellar water. These formulations feature molecules called micelles that act like magnets to trap dirt and oil without the need to rinse. (So think of it as cleansing prep as opposed to an extra cleansing step.) All you have to do is saturate a cotton round (preferably reusable!) and lightly wipe your face to pave the way for any gentle cleanser that follows. Once you wash as usual, you know you have a clean slate.
For those whose skin needs more hydration, you can use jojoba oil instead of micellar water. This oil is a common ingredient in many oil-based cleansers, but you can also use it straight-up (and it’s easy to find at Whole Foods or on Amazon). Jojoba oil is also non-comedogenic, so it won’t clog pores—which makes it an extra-hydrating double-cleanse option for all skin types. You can rinse or use a warm, damp washcloth to wipe the oil away once you’ve massaged it into your skin (which provides an extra bit of gentle exfoliation), but this isn’t necessary since you’re following up with your usual mild cleanser.
Keep in mind that it’s only necessary to double-cleanse in the evening—and you should always complete your routine with any prescription-based topical treatments, serums (such as our Pro-Aging Drops Skin Wellness Serum) and moisturizer. If you’re looking to embark on a new skincare regimen or update your existing routine to make sure it’s meeting your skin’s needs, sign up for my virtual or in-person Skincare Bootcamp program to get on the right track!
