two-step facial cleansing

Two-step facial cleansing is something we've been hearing about for a while now. Healthy, radiant skin starts with proper cleansing. One of the best ways to take care of your skin is to double-step facial cleansing, which effectively removes makeup, impurities, and excess sebum.

A key element of this ritual is a natural make-up removal oil. Find out why you should reach for this product and how to cleanse your skin properly.

Where does two-step facial cleansing come from?

Two-step cleansing has its roots in Korean skincare (K-Beauty) . It’s one of the key steps in this routine that has gained popularity around the world, especially among those striving for healthy, radiant skin.

This method was created in response to the problem of thoroughly removing makeup, sunscreens and impurities from the face, which traditional washing often left incomplete.

Why is it worth using makeup removal oil?

Makeup removal oil is the first step in two-step cleansing. It dissolves even waterproof make-up, removes sebum and impurities accumulated on the skin during the day. Natural oils do not damage the hydrolipid barrier, which means that the skin remains moisturized and elastic.

WHICH OILS WE RECOMMEND

Typically, a two-step facial cleansing oil is made up of a mixture of oils that do the job best.

Properties and use of vegetable oils in two-step facial cleansing

Vegetable oils are a key component of the first stage of two-step facial cleansing, which aims to effectively remove impurities, makeup and excess sebum. Thanks to their chemical structure, they are able to dissolve fats, which makes them an effective agent in eliminating hydrophobic substances from the skin surface. Choosing the right oil is important, because some of them can be comedogenic and contribute to the formation of imperfections. Below we will discuss the properties and applications of selected vegetable oils used in cosmetics.

Sunflower seed oil ( Helianthus Annuus Seed Oil ) is one of the most commonly used oils in facial cleansing cosmetics. It is characterized by a light consistency and a high content of linoleic acid (approx. 60%), which helps regulate sebum secretion and prevents pores from clogging. According to research published in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology , the use of sunflower oil can support the skin barrier function and reduce transepidermal water loss (TEWL). Its anti-inflammatory properties make it recommended for people with acne and problematic skin.

Sweet almond oil ( Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis Oil ) is rich in fatty acids, mainly oleic (approx. 62%) and linoleic (24%), as well as vitamins A and E. In cosmetology, it is valued for its soothing and moisturizing properties. Studies indicate that this oil can support skin regeneration and reduce irritation, making it a suitable choice for people with dry and sensitive skin. However, due to the higher content of oleic acid, it may be less beneficial for oily skin, as excessive use of this acid can lead to disruption of the lipid barrier and increased sebum production.

Avocado oil ( Persea Gratissima Oil ) is one of the most nourishing oils used in cosmetics. It contains a large amount of oleic acid (approx. 50-70%), lecithin, phytosterols and vitamins A, D and E. Its intensive moisturizing effect makes it especially recommended for dry and mature skin. Studies show that avocado oil can support the healing of minor skin damage and strengthen its protective barrier. However, due to its thick consistency and potentially comedogenic properties, it is not recommended for people with skin prone to acne.

Sesame oil ( Sesamum Indicum Seed Oil ) has antibacterial, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. It is rich in fatty acids, mainly oleic (approx. 40%) and linoleic (approx. 45%), as well as vitamin E and lignans, which have strong antioxidant effects. Studies conducted on oily skin show that sesame oil can help regulate sebum production, making it a potentially beneficial choice for combination skin.

Camellia oil ( Camellia Kissi Seed Oil ) is a light, quickly absorbed oil with a high content of fatty acids (mainly oleic and linoleic), vitamins and antioxidants. The literature emphasizes its regenerative and protective properties, which makes it suitable for dry and mature skin. Additionally, its light consistency means that it can be well tolerated by people with normal skin.

Citrus oils ( Citrus spp. ), such as orange, lemon or grapefruit oil, have antibacterial and toning effects. They are rich in flavonoids and vitamin C, which helps to lighten discolorations and even out skin tone. However, their intensive action may cause irritation in people with sensitive skin. In addition, some citrus oils may have a phototoxic effect, so their use should be limited before exposure to the sun.

In summary, choosing the right oil for a two-step facial cleanse should be tailored to your skin type and individual needs. People with oily and acne-prone skin should choose oils with a high linoleic acid content, such as sunflower or sesame oil, which help regulate sebum secretion. Dry and mature skin will benefit more from nourishing oils, such as avocado oil or camellia oil. Additionally, citrus oils can be a valuable addition to problem skin care, but their use requires caution due to potential irritation.

A two-step facial cleanse with the right oils can effectively support the skin barrier, improve hydration and regulate sebum secretion, making it beneficial for a variety of skin types. However, the key aspect is the right choice of ingredients and avoiding potentially comedogenic oils that could contribute to aggravating skin problems.

What is two-step facial cleansing?

First step: Makeup remover oil

To effectively cleanse your face, apply a few drops of oil to dry skin and gently massage it in with circular motions. The oil will dissolve makeup and sebum. Then wet your hands with water and continue massaging – the oil will turn into a milky emulsion that is easy to rinse off.

Second step: Gentle foam or face wash gel

After rinsing the oil, use a delicate foam or gel to remove any remaining impurities and oil residue. The moisturizing Gurdalina Japońska facial wash foam from Orientana is an excellent choice because it effectively cleanses the skin while taking care of its hydration and hydrolipid balance. You can also choose the Hello Daktyl facial wash gel .

Two-step cleansing - benefits

Two-step facial cleansing ensures thorough removal of all impurities that may accumulate on the skin during the day. The oil effectively dissolves greasy substances such as sebum and cosmetic residues, leaving the skin perfectly clean.

It is worth emphasizing that hydrophobic substances, such as sebum, makeup or environmental pollutants, dissolve best in fats, because according to the chemical principle "like dissolves like", lipids in the oil effectively combine with lipids on the skin's surface. As a result, the skin remains cleansed without damaging its natural protective barrier.

Two-step cleansing also helps maintain proper skin hydration. Using oil prevents excessive drying, which is a common effect of using aggressive cleansers.

Additionally, it prepares the skin for the next stages of care, increasing the effectiveness of absorption of active substances contained in serums and creams.

Benefits of Two-Step Facial Cleansing for Acne-Prone Skin

More thorough pore cleansing

Two-step cleansing allows for more effective removal of impurities than traditional washing with one product. The oil dissolves greasy dirt such as sebum, makeup or sunscreens, which often accumulate in pores and can lead to the formation of blackheads.

Then, the water-based product thoroughly removes any remaining oil, sweat, dirt, and dead skin cells. This leaves your skin better cleansed and your pores less likely to become clogged.

Reduced risk of new breakouts

Regular but gentle cleansing helps maintain skin balance and prevents the build-up of acne-causing bacteria. Inadequate removal of makeup and sunscreen can contribute to the development of inflammatory lesions, so a two-step cleanse helps effectively reduce this problem.

Reduces inflammation and irritation

Two-step cleansing, if done gently and using mild products, reduces the risk of irritation.

Unlike aggressive cleansing gels, which can dry out the skin and cause a defensive reaction in the form of overproduction of sebum, this method allows for maintaining the hydrolipid balance. This means that the skin is not excessively dry or irritated, which can lead to reduced inflammation.

Moisturizing and protecting the skin barrier

Oils used in the first stage of cleansing can help skin regenerate and strengthen its protective barrier. Properly selected oils, such as squalane or jojoba oil, help moisturize the skin and prevent it from dehydrating. This means that the skin does not feel the need to overproduce sebum, which can lead to less oiliness and fewer new breakouts.

Better effectiveness of anti-acne care

Thoroughly cleansed skin absorbs the active ingredients in toners, serums and anti-acne creams better. If pores are not clogged, active ingredients such as niacinamide, BHA acids or retinoids can work more effectively. This makes further care bring better results and helps reduce acne.