Vogue Writer Tests Double Cleansing for Two Weeks, Reports Smoother Skin and Fewer Breakouts

Key facts

• A Vogue writer with oily skin tested double cleansing for two weeks after daily product testing caused clogged pores and breakouts
• Double cleansing uses an oil or balm cleanser first, followed by a water-based gel, foaming, or cream cleanser
• Dermatologist Beibei Du-Harpur, MD, said the first cleanse must dissolve oil well, especially with longwear and waterproof makeup
• The second cleanse should be gentle and hydrating to prevent stripping essential natural oils
• Week one products included Elemis Pro-Collagen Black Cherry Cleansing Balm, Sarah Chapman Rapid Radiance cleanser, and Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser
• By day seven, skin felt smoother though some dullness and blocked pores remained
• Week two used Sunday Riley Aquamarine Melt Cleansing Gel-Balm with Cetaphil face wash and moisturizer, leaving skin calmer with no open comedones
• Consultant dermatologist Anjali Mahto, founder of Self London, said cleansing twice prevents clogged pores, breakouts, and dullness
• Makeup wipes should be avoided because they smear makeup and grime rather than remove it
• Triple cleansing is unnecessary and surfactants in cleansers can disrupt the skin barrier