The short answer is probably not for most of us. Regular use of a great cleanser, particularly at night, should be fine.

But there are exceptions. For example, if you wear waterproof mascara or long-wearing makeup of any kind you may want to consider a double cleanse. If you live in a heavily polluted area, you might benefit from a double cleanse.

Those who use a heavier-than-normal sunscreen application (or multiple applications) while playing sports like golf, tennis, pickleball, etc., may benefit from a double cleanse.

Many of us wear mineral-based sunscreen (those with active ingredients like titanium dioxide and/or zinc oxide) or water-resistant formulas that tend to adhere more tenaciously to the skin, double cleansing can ensure that everything is removed completely.

If you have oily or acne-prone skin, a double cleanse may help unclog pores and prevent breakouts. If you spend most of your day indoors and don't wear makeup a double cleanse is probably not necessary.

But, a nighttime cleansing routine is very important for all of us--oily, combo, or dry skin types.

Double cleansing can also be done in a variety of ways. Micellar water, for instance, is very effective for cleansing the skin.

Option #1

Go over your eyes with a cotton pad soaked in micellar water. Flip the pad over, or use another pad soaked in micellar water, and go over your entire face.
Next, cleanse your entire face with a gentle, yet thorough cleanser. Use your fingertips to apply or a soft cloth.

Option #2

Cleanse your face with a great cleansing gel. Using your fingertips, massage cleanser into the skin then rinse. Apply micellar water or a face toner to a cotton pad and go over the entire face. Your skin should feel moist and super clean.

Option #3

Opting to cleanse with a cream or oil based cleanser first, followed by a gel-type cleanser is another way to ensure your skin is ultra clean. 

However, for those with very dry or sensitive skin, double cleansing may be too harsh and drying for your skin. A thorough cleanse followed by a night cream  specifically designed for dry skin is the best routine for you. It's important to remember serums and moisturizers work best on a clean palette!

Doing a double cleanse only at night is a great option too. It's not necessary to double cleanse in the morning if you performed the extra cleanse the night before. 

There's more to double cleansing than just repeating the act of washing your face. A deeper clean is achieved by switching up the way you wash your skin daily. To remove both surface and deep-down impurities, double cleansing works like a one-two punch.