How to Remove Makeup Properly: Double Cleansing to Prevent Clogged Pores

Short answer: wiping makeup off with a single product, or with makeup wipes alone, leaves sunscreen, foundation and oil behind. Double cleansing first dissolves makeup and sunscreen with an oil or balm cleanser, then washes the face with a gentle water-based cleanser suited to your skin. These two steps reduce clogged pores and help the products you apply afterwards work better.

Why Proper Makeup Removal Matters

Foundation, concealer, powder and especially waterproof mascara and sunscreen are made with oils and silicones so they stay put. Combined with the oil your skin makes during the day, sweat and city grime, the residue settles in the openings of your pores. The result: blackheads, dullness, small bumps and, for some people, breakouts. Makeup left on overnight means a thin plug sits on the skin just when it is repairing itself.

What Is Double Cleansing?

Double cleansing works on the principle that “like dissolves like”:

1. Step one, an oil-based cleanser: a cleansing oil, balm or milk dissolves makeup, sunscreen and oily grime.
2. Step two, a water-based cleanser: a gel, foam or cream cleanser removes what's left from step one, along with sweat and water-soluble dirt.

Using an oil on oily skin can feel counter-intuitive, but a good cleansing oil emulsifies with water and rinses away without leaving a greasy film.

Your Evening Routine, Step by Step

1. Wash your hands. Cleansing shouldn't start with dirty hands.
2. Eyes and lips: soak a cotton pad in a bi-phase eye makeup remover, hold it on the eye for 10–15 seconds, then wipe gently downwards. Don't rub; the skin around the eyes is thin.
3. Oil or balm on dry skin: apply with dry hands to a dry face and massage in circles for 30–60 seconds, paying attention to the sides of the nose and the chin where foundation collects.
4. Emulsify: wet your fingertips and keep massaging until the oil turns milky, then rinse with lukewarm water.
5. Second cleanser: wash for 30 seconds with a gentle gel or cream cleanser that suits your skin, then rinse.
6. Pat dry: press a clean towel to your face; don't rub.
7. Skincare: apply serum and moisturiser while skin is still slightly damp.

Common Mistakes

• Relying on makeup wipes: they move makeup around rather than remove it, and the rubbing stresses skin. Fine when travelling, not as a daily routine.
• Very hot water: it strips the skin's protective oils and increases dryness and redness.
• Chasing a “squeaky clean” feel: tightness after cleansing means your cleanser is too harsh for you.
• Double cleansing in the morning too: if you slept without makeup, one gentle cleanse is usually enough.
• Sleeping in makeup: even occasionally, it's the worst habit for pores and the eye area.

Adapting It to Your Skin Type

For Blackheads and Clogged Pores

Regular double cleansing reduces new blackheads but won't clear existing ones on its own. Squeezing raises the risk of marks and inflammation; we explain why, and what to do instead, in how to get rid of blackheads without squeezing. For a professional deep cleanse, Hydro Facial uses vacuum-assisted cleansing, and blemish-prone skin may benefit from acne care.

Cleansing in Winter

The skin barrier is more fragile in cold weather. Switching to a creamier second cleanser and keeping the water lukewarm helps reduce dryness. See our winter skincare and skin barrier guides.

Professional Facials in Şişli, Istanbul

Your home routine is the foundation; professional care supports it. At our salon on Abide-i Hürriyet Avenue in Şişli, every facial starts with a skin assessment. Browse all options on our skincare page, or book by WhatsApp or phone on +90 533 038 48 24.

This article is for general information and is not medical advice. See a dermatologist for severe, painful or scarring breakouts. Results vary from person to person.