Posted by Jordyn Ruiz
on September 26, 2026
The Double Cleanse Debate — Australian Edition
Double cleansing — an oil-based cleanser followed by a water-based one — has become a skincare staple for many. But with Australia's unique climate, skin concerns, and lifestyle, it's worth asking: is a two-step cleanse actually necessary, or is it adding unnecessary steps to your routine?
Why Double Cleansing Became Popular
The method originated from Korean skincare and is built around a simple principle: oil dissolves oil. An oil-based first cleanser is designed to break down oil-soluble residue — think SPF, long-wear foundation, and sebum — before a second, water-based cleanser addresses water-soluble impurities like sweat and dust.
In theory, it leaves the skin thoroughly clean without stripping. In practice, whether you need both steps depends entirely on what you're removing — and what kind of cleanser you're using.
The SPF and Makeup Factor
Most Australians wear SPF daily, and many sunscreens — particularly water-resistant or silicone-based formulas — don't rinse away easily. Pair that with makeup or long-wear products, and a double cleanse in the evening makes sense to ensure everything is properly removed.
That said, if your day involves a light SPF, minimal makeup, or no makeup at all, a single thorough cleanse with the right formula is usually all you need.
What About Sensitive or Dry Skin?
Double cleansing isn't a one-size-fits-all solution. For those with dry, sensitised, or reactive skin, cleansing twice — particularly with products that aren't formulated for your skin type — can compromise the skin barrier, leading to increased sensitivity, tightness, or that uncomfortable "squeaky clean" feeling that's actually a sign of over-cleansing.
If your skin feels stripped or reactive after cleansing, that's a signal to simplify, not add more steps.
When a Single Cream Cleanser Does the Work of Two
Here's where formula really matters. Not all single cleansers are created equal — and a well-formulated cream cleanser can genuinely replace the need for two separate steps.
The ELME Cream Cleanser is designed to do exactly that. Its cream texture lifts and dissolves surface impurities, light SPF, and daily makeup in one thorough cleanse — without stripping the skin's natural oils or disrupting the moisture barrier. The result is skin that feels clean, comfortable, and balanced, not tight, dry, or irritated.
For daily wear — a light SPF, minimal or no makeup, or a morning cleanse — the ELME Cream Cleanser is sufficient on its own. One step, properly done, with a formula that works with your skin rather than against it.
This is what sets a considered cream cleanser apart from a basic face wash: it cleanses effectively while actively preserving the skin's hydration and barrier function. You don't have to choose between thorough and gentle — the right formula delivers both.
The ELME Cream Cleanser: Versatile Enough for Both Steps
What makes the ELME Cream Cleanser genuinely different is its versatility. Whether you double cleanse or not, it works beautifully at every point in your routine.
If you prefer to skip the oil-based step entirely, the ELME Cream Cleanser is more than capable of handling a thorough cleanse on its own — lifting makeup, SPF, and daily impurities without the need for a preceding oil cleanse. For many Australians, particularly those with sensitive or dry skin, this single-step approach is not just adequate — it's better.
And if you do double cleanse — after a heavy SPF day, a full face of makeup, or long-wear products — the ELME Cream Cleanser is an ideal second step. After an oil cleanser has lifted the heavy residue, it sweeps away any remaining impurities without disrupting the skin barrier or leaving skin feeling dry or tight. It completes the double cleanse properly: thorough enough to finish the job, gentle enough to keep skin comfortable and hydrated. OR, you can skip the Oil-Based product entirely and double-cleanse with the ELME Cream Cleanser. Many customers have made the switch to ELME and prefer to use a Cream based product on its own.
The result is the same either way — clean, balanced skin that doesn't feel compromised. That's the standard a good cream cleanser should meet, and exactly what the ELME formula is built for.
So, Do Australians Need to Double Cleanse?
The honest answer: sometimes, but not always. Here's a simple guide:
- Wearing SPF and makeup? A double cleanse in the evening helps ensure full removal.
- Full makeup or long-wear products? Double cleansing gives a more complete removal.
- Sensitive, dry, or barrier-compromised skin? A single cleanse with a non-stripping formula like the ELME Cream Cleanser is the kinder, smarter choice.
- Light SPF, no makeup, or a morning cleanse? One thorough cleanse is all you need.
The goal of cleansing is clean, comfortable skin — not tightness, dryness, or redness. A cream cleanser that respects your barrier means you can cleanse properly every day without the cumulative dryness that harsher formulas can cause over time.
The Bottom Line
Double cleansing is a useful tool, not a daily requirement for everyone. The real question isn't how many steps you're taking — it's whether your cleanser is doing its job without compromising your skin in the process.
A gentle, effective formula means less reliance on a second step and healthier skin over time. Explore the ELME Cream Cleanser — designed to cleanse thoroughly, preserve your skin's natural balance, and leave you with nothing but clean, comfortable skin.
