Double cleansing isn’t new. It’s a method built on a simple principle: oil dissolves oil, water dissolves water. Traditionally you start with an oil-based cleanser to break down sunscreen, sebum and makeup, then follow with a water-based wash to sweep away residue.
But in drier, colder seasons, experts are noticing a shift: some people see better results by flipping the order—what’s now called reverse double cleansing. You begin with a gentle gel cleanser, then finish with a richer oil or cream cleanser to replenish lipids and leave skin soft rather than squeaky.
Let’s break down why this tweak matters in autumn, and how to put it into practice with Odylique’s core cleansers and nourishing extras.
Why the Order Matters
Traditional double cleanse
- Step 1: Oil/balm cleanser lifts oil-soluble debris (makeup, SPF, excess sebum).
- Step 2: Gel or foaming cleanser removes remaining impurities, leaving skin fresh.
- Best for: Heavier makeup wearers, humid climates, or very oily skin types.
Reverse double cleanse
- Step 1: Gentle gel cleanser clears daily grime and surface sweat without disrupting the skin barrier.
- Step 2: Cream or oil cleanser replenishes and softens, leaving behind a micro-layer of nourishing lipids.
- Best for: Drier or sensitive skin, cooler climates, anyone prone to tightness after cleansing.
In short: if your skin feels stripped by traditional cleansing in autumn, a reverse double cleanse is worth trying.
The Autumn Skin Factor
Why does this matter now?
- Lower humidity indoors and outdoors accelerates water loss from skin.
- Heating systems reduce air moisture further, increasing trans-epidermal water loss.
- Wind and temperature shifts weaken the lipid barrier.
That means any cleanser that leaves your face squeaky-clean may amplify seasonal dryness. Ending your cleanse with a lipid-rich formula can counteract that.
Building a Routine with Odylique
The Core Cleansers
- Odylique Silk Touch Cleanser (gel phase)
- Gentle, plant-based gel that lifts surface impurities without sulphates.
- Ideal “first step” in the reverse routine.
- Suits morning cleansing or light daily buildup removal.
- Odylique Creamy Coconut Cleanser (cream/oil phase)
- Made with extra virgin olive oil, coconut oil and shea butter.
- Dissolves makeup, sunscreen, and impurities, but also conditions.
- Works perfectly as the second cleanse in reverse order because it leaves a comforting finish.
Optional Enhancers
- Odylique Balms (e.g. Ultra Rich Balm)
Use as a pre-cleanse mask or as the final cleanse when skin feels very parched. Balms provide occlusion, reducing moisture loss. - Odylique Superfruit Concentrate
Technically a serum/oil, not a cleanser. Best used after cleansing to seal in hydration. Rich in rosehip and pomegranate oils, it boosts skin recovery in colder months.
How to Reverse Double Cleanse: Step by Step
- Dispense a small amount of Silk Touch Cleanser into damp hands. Massage gently across face and neck for 30–60 seconds. Focus on areas prone to sweat, pollution or surface buildup (forehead, nose, chin). Rinse with lukewarm water.
- Follow with Creamy Coconut Cleanser. Apply to dry or slightly damp skin. Massage in circular motions to lift deeper debris while letting oils condition. Remove with a soft damp cloth, leaving a slight veil of hydration.
- Optional: Balm Layer. On particularly dry evenings, replace or follow the coconut cleanser with a pea-sized amount of Calendula Balm or Ultra Rich Balm massaged in and gently tissued off.
- Finish with hydration. Mist with Calming Rose Super Tonic (to balance pH) and lock in with Timeless Rose Moisturiser or a few drops of Superfruit Concentrate.
Common Questions
Won’t ending with a cream/oil leave residue?
That’s the point. Unlike foaming washes, a final lipid layer helps reinforce the barrier. As long as you’re not using comedogenic ingredients (Odylique of course uses no mineral oil and synthetic occlusives), this shouldn’t clog pores.
Do I need both methods—traditional and reverse?
It depends on your day. If you’re wearing heavy makeup or SPF 50 outdoors, start with the Coconut Cleanser first, then use Silk Touch second. On no-makeup autumn days, reverse it. The routine can flex with your needs.
Is this suitable for sensitive skin?
Yes. Both cleansers are free from sulphates, artificial fragrance and harsh alcohols. Reverse order is especially good if your skin feels tight or itchy after cleansing.
Routine Examples
Morning (light routine)
- Silk Touch Cleanser (quick refresh).
- Coconut Cleanser (optional if skin feels dry).
- Calming Rose Super Tonic.
- Timeless Rose Moisturiser.
- Sunscreen.
Evening (autumn version, no heavy makeup)
- Silk Touch Cleanser.
- Creamy Coconut Cleanser.
- Rose Super Tonic.
- Timeless Rose Moisturiser + Superfruit Concentrate.
Evening (heavy makeup day)
- Creamy Coconut Cleanser first (traditional method).
- Silk Touch Cleanser second.
- Follow with Superfruit Concentrate.
This flexibility makes double cleansing less of a “rule” and more of a toolkit.