If you have watched any online videos about skincare or influencers on YouTube talk about makeup, cleansing, and the importance of a healthy skincare routine, you have likely heard about double cleansing and exfoliation. You may also be familiar with why regularly exfoliating your skin and remaining committed to double cleansing your skin each day, especially after wearing makeup, is crucial to maintaining ongoing skin health. However, if these terms are foreign to you or you don't necessarily understand how exfoliation and double-cleansing can help keep your skin clear, youthful, and healthy, continue reading below for more information.

 What is a Double Cleanse?

So what does it mean to double cleanse? And why is it essential to your regular skincare routine? Double cleansing is exactly as simple as it sounds. When you double cleanse your skin, you thoroughly wash your face with two cleansers. The important factor here is that the cleaners need to be of two different types to achieve the desired results. The first cleanser should be an oil-based cleanser, with the second being water-based. But, if oil-based cleansers do not work well for your skin type, tone, or texture, you can use two water-based cleansers.

So why two cleansers when washing your face? It’s like a deep cleansing facial whenever you wash. An oil-based cleanser removes all "oil-based" impurities like makeup, sunscreen, sebum, and pollutants that clog your pores. By getting rid of these first, your water-based cleanser can get deep into your skin to remove the other contributors to dull skin, such as sweat and dirt. Not only will a double cleanse help your skin feel youthful and revitalized, but it will also help your skin care products and treatments penetrate better.

Why Should You Exfoliate?

Exfoliation is the process of removing the dead skin cells from the surface of your skin using a granular substance, a special tool, or a chemical. Although your skin sheds dead skin cells naturally every 30 days, the dead cells do not always shed completely, leading to dry, dull skin and clogged pores. Exfoliating your skin can prevent this from happening.

The American Academy of Dermatology tells us that exfoliating can lead to brighter, healthier-looking skin. It can also increase collagen production, which is key to glowing, youthful skin. Collagen is also essential for reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Another key benefit to exfoliation? It also improves the effectiveness of your skincare products.

If you double cleanse each night, you help to clear your skin of the harmful toxins, dirt, and grime that build up each day. Double cleansing before you exfoliate improves the effectiveness of your exfoliation products. So, whether you choose to exfoliate at home or as part of an aesthetic treatment at Upkeep Med Spa, double cleansing should be a regular part of your daily skincare routine.

If you are unsure where to start or which products to choose for your nightly double cleansing routine or exfoliation, let our skin care professionals at Upkeep Med Spa help. We can offer suggestions for products and professional treatments based on your skin care needs and goals. Contact us today to schedule a consultation appointment to learn more.