Back away from the cleansing wipes. It's time for a serious overhaul of your skincare regime, and it all starts with the double cleansing method.

While you may think that double cleansing has been dreamed up by those in the industry wishing to sell you more products, you couldn't be further from the truth. Think about how much time you applying makeup in the morning, 10, 15, 20 minutes? One simple swipe of a facial wipe or cleanser isn't going to cut it if you want a completely clean complexion.

What is double cleansing?

Double cleansing involves using a cleansing oil or balm as the first step in your skincare routine to break down makeup, dirt and impurities, before going in for a second cleanse with your usual cleanser.

If you're feeling the immediate panic about using an oil on your skin, especially if you have combination or acne-prone skin, you can calm down. Oils are actually great for all skin types, including oily and blemish-prone. They help to break down exisiting oils on the skin's surface, and wash away impurities. Plus, because you go in for a second cleanse, you won't feel an oily residue on your skin afterwards.

Can double cleansing cause acne?

A common myth, and one that needs to be dispelled straightaway is the notion that double cleansing can cause acne.

If you have acne-prone skin, double cleansing can actually help to reduce your blemishes by getting deep down into the pores and ridding the skin of excess bacteria.

If you don't have blemish-prone skin, then double cleansing won't cause acne. You might go through what the experts call a "skin purging" period which happens when you switch your skincare routine to a more thorough one. This only means your cells are getting rid of the toxins, (which could make a couple of blemishes appear), but you will have a beautifully clear, glowing and soft complexion afterwards.

How to double cleanse with Bobbi Brown

Our favourite double cleansing products are the Soothing Cleasing Oil and Soothing Cleansing Milk from Bobbi Brown. While you might know the brand for its incredible makeup collection, the brand's skincare range is equally as brilliant.

Step one

Start by using a few pumps of the Bobbi Brown Soothing Cleansing Oil. The lightweight yet rich blend of natural oils including sunflower, olive and jojoba help to break down makeup and dirt on the skin and leave it ready for your second cleanse.

Because this oil feels so luxurious, we love to spend about 5 minutes massaging it into our skin. Starting from your chin, massage in circular motions towards the forehead, paying special attention to any areas of concern such as blemishes, redness or dryness.

This oil also smells absolutely divine, making it perfect for your night-time skincare routine. Made with jasmine flower extract, it has a super soothing and calming scent, helping you to unwind as you spend time on your skin.

Step two

The second step of our favourite double cleansing duo is the Bobbi Brown Soothing Cleansing Milk. Enriched with both narcissus and lavender flower complex, it smells absolutely beautiful and really help you to unwind after a stressful day at work.

The milk is also rich in omega fatty acids, which helps to keep the skin well hydrated and moisturised. We love to use this on wet skin after rinsing away the oil. Make sure you spend time massaging it into the skin so you can feel its benefits.