You wouldn’t take a shower with your clothes on would you? No, you have to remove your clothes first before you can wash your body.

It’s the same with your face, first you have to remove your makeup and the day’s grime before you can get to the business of deeply cleansing your skin and pores.

Double cleansing every evening has been a staple in Asian skincare for years and can be done on any skin type. Two products are used in double cleansing, a facial makeup remover (which can be different from an eye makeup remover), and a facial cleanser.

Facial makeup remover is used as the first cleanse to remove makeup, dirt, oils, sweat, pollution and the day’s accumulated grime. Facial cleanser is used as the second cleanse to deeply cleanse pores and surface skin.

Facial makeup remover can come in different forms, from liquid, oil, gel, or cream, to plain old olive oil. Which form you choose will depend on your skin type, and the product line you are using.

Begin your double cleansing in the evening. Put a small amount of your chosen form of facial makeup remover onto one or two cotton pads and gently massage your entire face. If necessary, use a second set of cotton pads to remove any excess makeup remover and debris. If desired, rinse with wet cotton pads.

If you don’t have a specific facial makeup remover, you can use olive oil, or in a pinch, you can also use your facial cleanser for the first cleanse. But it’s best if you use the proper products for the proper step.

Facial cleansers also come in a variety of forms. Generally they are creamy, foaming, or gel. Some newer cleansers for sensitive skin may also be oil-based. Again, the form you choose will depend on your skin type, and the product line you are using.

To deep cleanse, put a small amount of your chosen facial cleanser into your hands and rub together, then pat onto your face and gently massage with water or a wet washcloth or sponges, or a Clarisonic brush. Massage thoroughly, then rinse thoroughly with water. In all, double cleansing should only take about two to three minutes in your evening skincare routine.

Double cleansing your skin allows it to more easily breathe, excrete, and regenerate. Thorough cleansing of your skin is one of the most important steps you can take to ensure clear and radiant skin. So take the few extra minutes to give your skin the double cleansing it needs and it will reward you by growing healthier and stronger.

On a final note, don’t forget to moisturize after you have cleansed. Once cleansed, it’s time to feed your skin. This is where moisturizers and night creams come in. You have now completed a basic evening skincare routine.

Cassandra Lanning is an esthetician/electrologist and owner of The Bathery Electrolysis and Skincare in Kirkland. For information, visit www.thebathery.com.