Double cleansing: should we really be cleaning ourselves twice in each shower?
This idea has suddenly gained huge popularity online. But is it just a way to sell us more products – and could it potentially damage our skin? Gone are the days of the speedy shower; a quick lather with a squirt of shower gel will, apparently, no longer cut it. Double cleansing – once the remit of facial skincare and shampoo routines – has steadily trickled into body-care, too. But should you…
The double cleansing trend has gained significant traction on social media platforms, particularly TikTok. However, the question remains: is this practice truly necessary for our body hygiene, or is it merely a marketing ploy to sell more products?
Double cleansing, once predominantly associated with facial skincare and shampoo routines, has now extended to body care. This approach involves using two different cleansers during a shower, the first to break down and remove impurities, followed by a second cleanser to rinse them away. This method has been praised by self-care advocates like Xara Beqele and digital creator Terree Ann, who claim it makes them feel cleaner and better smelling.
Proponents argue that double cleansing ensures a more thorough cleanse compared to using a single hydrating body wash. They claim that relying solely on a body wash is akin to washing one's body with lotion, leaving behind unclean skin. By contrast, double cleansing is seen as a more effective way to remove dirt and grime, akin to using a scented body wash after initially using unclean skin.
Interestingly, research suggests that Gen Z individuals spend more time showering than any other age group, despite being among the most climate-conscious. This increased shower time may suggest a desire to adopt healthier hygiene practices, including double cleansing. However, it's essential to consider whether this trend is genuinely beneficial for our skin or simply a marketing strategy to increase product sales.
Written by urgent.news from Guardian Health's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
