Is ‘double cleansing’ actually doing damage to your skin?
Summary
Consultant dermatologist Katrina Ryan debunks the viral "double cleansing" trend, explaining that over-washing strips essential lipids and disrupts the skin's natural pH and microbiome. She advises that soap is only necessary for areas with apocrine glands, like the underarms and groin, while the rest of the body should be washed with water alone. Ryan recommends short, lukewarm showers and applying moisturizer within two minutes of drying to maintain a healthy skin barrier, particularly as winter approaches.
Topics discussed
Bare Knuckle FC 94 fight promotion
Introduction to the double cleansing trend
Defining the double cleansing process
Dermatologist's initial reaction to the trend
The importance of the skin barrier and microbiome
Risks of over-cleansing for sensitive skin
How lipids and oils protect the skin surface
Impact of soap on skin pH levels
Recommendations for shower duration and temperature
Targeted soap use for apocrine gland areas
Necessity of soap for general body cleaning
Exceptions where double cleansing might be justified
Alternative advice: moisturizing after showering
Benefits of maintaining a nourished skin barrier
Listener question about tattoos and skin barriers
Post-tattoo care and healing process
Winter skin dryness and the double cleansing trend
Commercial motives behind viral beauty trends
Signs of over-cleansing and closing remarks
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