Double Cleansing for Teens: Is It Necessary? (And How to Do It Right)
What Is Double Cleansing, Anyway?
You might have seen double cleansing all over TikTok or heard about it from skincare influencers—but what does it actually mean? Double cleansing is a two-step face washing method: first, you use an oil-based cleanser like FATCO's Facial Cleansing Oils (or micellar water) to break down sunscreen, sweat, and excess oil. Then, you follow up with a water-based cleanser (like your usual face wash or gentle bar soap) to wash away everything else. It’s like hitting the reset button for your skin, especially after a long day.
Do Teens Really Need to Double Cleanse?
For most teens, a single, gentle cleanse is enough—especially if you’re not wearing makeup or heavy sunscreen every day. But double cleansing can be a game-changer if:
- You play sports or sweat a lot
- You use thick sunscreen or makeup (think prom, performances, or sports tournaments)
- You live in a city with lots of pollution
- You struggle with clogged pores or blackheads
If your skin often feels oily or you notice leftover grime after washing your face, double cleansing a few times a week might be worth a try.
How to Double Cleanse: Step-by-Step for Teens
Step 1: Start with an Oil-Based Cleanser or Micellar Water
Apply a small amount of an oil-based cleanser—like FATCO’s Cleansing Oil—to dry skin and gently massage in circles. This helps dissolve sunscreen, excess oil, and any makeup. (If you don’t have an oil cleanser, fragrance-free micellar water on a cotton pad works too.)
Apply a small amount of an oil-based cleanser—like FATCO’s Cleansing Oil—to dry skin and gently massage in circles. This helps dissolve sunscreen, excess oil, and any makeup. (If you don’t have an oil cleanser, fragrance-free micellar water on a cotton pad works too.)
Step 2: Rinse or Wipe Off
Rinse with lukewarm water or gently wipe away with a soft, damp cloth.
Rinse with lukewarm water or gently wipe away with a soft, damp cloth.
Step 3: Use Your Regular Cleanser
Now, use your Prep U Foaming Daily Face Wash or a Prep U Cleansing Bar to wash your face as you normally would. Massage gently, rinse well, and pat dry.
Now, use your Prep U Foaming Daily Face Wash or a Prep U Cleansing Bar to wash your face as you normally would. Massage gently, rinse well, and pat dry.
Step 4: Moisturize
Finish with a lightweight, non-comedogenic moisturizer to keep your skin balanced.
Finish with a lightweight, non-comedogenic moisturizer to keep your skin balanced.
When Should Teens Double Cleanse?
- After sports or gym class: Removes sweat, sunscreen, and bacteria.
- After wearing heavy sunscreen or makeup: Ensures nothing is left behind to clog pores.
- If you live in a polluted city: Helps get rid of grime and pollutants.
- When your skin feels extra oily or congested: A good reset for your pores.
For most teens, double cleansing isn’t needed every night—just on days when your skin has extra buildup.
Double Cleansing Myths (and the Real Truth)
Myth: Double cleansing is only for people who wear makeup.
Truth: Sweat, sunscreen, and pollution can also stick to your skin and need an extra cleanse.
Truth: Sweat, sunscreen, and pollution can also stick to your skin and need an extra cleanse.
Myth: It’s too harsh for teen skin.
Truth: If you use gentle, non-stripping cleansers (like Prep U’s), double cleansing is safe—even for sensitive skin.
Truth: If you use gentle, non-stripping cleansers (like Prep U’s), double cleansing is safe—even for sensitive skin.
Myth: You need expensive products to double cleanse.
Truth: You can use affordable micellar water or a gentle cleansing oil, followed by your usual Prep U cleanser.
Truth: You can use affordable micellar water or a gentle cleansing oil, followed by your usual Prep U cleanser.
Product Picks for Double Cleansing
- Foaming Daily Face Wash: Perfect for your second cleanse—gentle, effective, and teen-friendly.
- Tea Tree Cleansing Castile Bar: Great for acne-prone or oily skin.
- Charcoal Face & Body Cleansing Bar: Deep clean and gentle exfoliation.
- Blem Pen with Witch Hazel: Spot treat after cleansing, if needed.
- FATCO's Facial Cleansing Oil:
FAQs About Double Cleansing for Teens
Is double cleansing OK for sensitive skin?
Yes, just use gentle, fragrance-free products and don’t scrub too hard.
Yes, just use gentle, fragrance-free products and don’t scrub too hard.
Do I have to double cleanse every day?
Nope! Most teens only need it after heavy sunscreen, sweat, or makeup.
Nope! Most teens only need it after heavy sunscreen, sweat, or makeup.
Can I use Prep U bars for double cleansing?
Absolutely—use micellar water or a cleansing oil first, then your Prep U bar or face wash.
Absolutely—use micellar water or a cleansing oil first, then your Prep U bar or face wash.
What if my skin feels dry after double cleansing?
Always follow with moisturizer, and don’t overdo it—listen to your skin.
Always follow with moisturizer, and don’t overdo it—listen to your skin.
What’s a good oil cleanser for teens?
If you’re looking for a clean, natural oil cleanser to start your double cleansing routine, FATCO’s Cleansing Oil is a great option. It’s made with nourishing oils and is gentle enough for sensitive or breakout-prone skin.
If you’re looking for a clean, natural oil cleanser to start your double cleansing routine, FATCO’s Cleansing Oil is a great option. It’s made with nourishing oils and is gentle enough for sensitive or breakout-prone skin.
Related Resources
- How to Cleanse Your Face Properly
- Cleansing Mistakes to Avoid
- Best Soap for Face: How to Choose the Right Bar
The Bottom Line
Double cleansing isn’t a must for every teen, but it can make a real difference if you’re active, wear sunscreen or makeup, or just want a super-fresh, clean feeling. Start simple, listen to your skin, and always follow up with a good moisturizer. Want more tips or the best products for your skin? Shop all Prep U teen skincare essentials.
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