By Anupriya Jamuar

The season of soaring temperatures and feasting on mangoes is here, but this also signals an onslaught of skin issues for acne-prone skin. Having a sensitive skin type means that the rise in heat and humidity, along with sunscreen and makeup grease, can aggravate your skin, leading to frequent breakouts. But here is a neat trick that will help you avoid that this summer: double cleansing.

As the name suggests, this process involves using two different cleansers with distinct purposes in a specific order. Double cleansing ensures that you’re getting rid of all the skin impurities that cause acne. Here is why we advise you to try it.

How does double cleansing work?

There are two types of impurities present on your face–oil-soluble, and water-soluble. Sometimes, especially after a long hot day, cleansing your face just once might not be enough. There could be sebum, makeup and grime still left behind. These impurities then clog your pores and lead to acne and breakouts.

When you double cleanse, first use an oil-soluble cleanser, such as micellar water, or a cleansing oil to wipe away a day’s worth of makeup, skincare and grime. Go in a second time with a water-based cleanser to get all the water-soluble impurities out and you’re left with well cleansed skin. No more clogged pores = fewer chances of breakouts.

Does it work for acne-prone skin?

We understand that acne-prone skin is easily aggravated, and double cleansing may seem like a recipe for skin irritation. But using the right products and technique to double cleanse will prevent you from over-stripping or irritating your skin. Remember that double cleansing is not about stripping your skin of all its oils.

We also advise you to only double cleanse in the night when you have that much build-up present from wearing skincare and makeup all day.

How to choose the right double cleansing products?

Sensitive or acne-prone skin means you need calming, fuss-free and non-comedogenic products that don’t aggravate your skin. Instead, look for antioxidants and anti-inflammatory ingredients, like niacinamide, mandelic acid, vitamin E, aloe, Centella asiatica and tea tree oil in your cleanser.

For your face cleanser, look for ingredients like salicylic acid or glycolic acid. BHAs like salicylic acids dissolve into your pores to clean your skin. That is why salicylic acid is a popular ingredient in products for acne-prone skin. But, if you have really sensitive skin, you can also look for a cleanser with lactic acid, which is a much gentler exfoliator. #AcnePositivity

Break Up With Summer Breakouts