The Triple Cleansing Trend: Is It Worth the Hype?

We’ve all been there—standing in front of the bathroom mirror, scrubbing away the day’s grime, only to find our skin feeling less than pristine. Pursuing that elusive, purified complexion has led us down countless skincare rabbit holes. The latest trend to catch our eye? Triple cleansing.

This meticulous method has been making waves among skincare enthusiasts, promising a deeper clean that’s nothing short of revolutionary. So, is it worth the hype? 

At MD GLAM, we’re passionate about uncovering the truth behind all the viral skincare fads. Our mission? Empowering you to make informed choices so you can embrace and adore the skin you’re in.

In today’s article, we explore the ins and outs of triple cleansing—from its pros and cons, best practices, alternatives, and more. 

Cue the squeaky-clean facts in 3… 2…

Understanding the Basics of Triple Cleansing

As the name implies, triple cleansing is a skincare practice for cleansing your face not once, not twice, but thrice. The goal? Remove all traces of impurities from your skin, leaving you with an impeccably clean canvas prepped for subsequent skincare. 

The process of triple cleansing follows a specific order:

1. First, an oil-based cleanser dissolves sebum (oil), SPF, and makeup, particularly stubborn, waterproof formulas.

1. Next, a cream or gel-like cleanser targets any lingering impurities, leaving you feeling fresh and hydrated.

1. Lastly, a water-based cleanser (like micellar water) sweeps away residual dirt or oil, ensuring a thorough cleanse. 

But where did this trend originate? Triple cleansing stems from Asian skincare routines, particularly the savvy skincare lands of Korea and Japan. In these cultures, skincare is more than a staple routine—it’s a cherished self-care ritual. 

All this cleansing can’t be good for your skin… or can it?

The Benefits of Triple Cleansing

Who doesn’t love a perfectly pristine complexion? For many, this method has proven itself a game-changer for boosting skin health and radiance. 

Here’s why it’s got skincare aficionados singing its praises:

Deeply purifies the skin

Triple cleansing transcends sweat and makeup removal—it eliminates sunscreen, excess oil, and impurities, leaving your skin radically clean.

Better skincare absorption

Layering three different cleansing products paves the way for enhanced absorption of all your skincare products. 

Prevents breakouts

This method’s thorough cleansing action helps unclog pores and prevent the buildup of acne-causing bacteria, keeping breakouts at bay.

Encourages a radiant complexion

Regular triple cleansing can promote a brighter, more even skin tone, fostering a natural luminosity in your complexion.

But before you can reap these benefits, you’ll need to choose the right products. 

Methods and Products for Triple Cleansing

Earlier, we gave you a glimpse of what the triple-cleansing process looks like—now it’s time to get more specific. 

Here are some of our go-to products for making triple cleansing methods shine:

1. Oil Cleansers

Step one is all about melting away makeup and breaking down sebum and product build-up. An oil-based cleanser works wonders here, attracting oil-based impurities like a magnet. 

Look for products with nourishing oils like jojoba or sweet almond to leave your complexion feeling soft and supple.

• Worthy splurge: Herbivore - Orchid Antioxidant Beauty Face Oil ($74)
• Affordable gem: Beauty of Joseon - Ginseng Cleansing Oil ($17)

2. Cream/Gel Cleansers

Creamy or gel-like cleansing products are designed to clean deeper, targeting residual dirt and impurities lodged in your pores (underneath the preceding makeup removal). 

Opt for formulas that cleanse the skin but pump skin-loving minerals and ingredients (like Vitamin E, glycerin, or niacinamide) right back into it. This helps leave your skin refreshed and replenished.

• Worthy splurge: MD GLAM - Deep Pore Foaming Cleanser ($59)
• Affordable gem: La Roche-Posay - Toleriane Hydrating Gentle Face Cleanser ($17)

3. Micellar Water

Your last step? A water-based cleanser or micellar water that ensures any residue is whisked away, leaving your skin intensely clean. 

Products with hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid or soothing chamomile wrap up your cleansing routine on a refreshing note.

• Worthy splurge: Yon-Ka - Eau Micellaire ($50)
• Affordable gem: Garnier - Skinactive Micellar Water With Hyaluronic Acid ($12)

If that doesn't qualify as pampering your skin like royalty, we're not sure what does.

Now that we’ve explored the positives, let's look at the other side of the coin.

Is Triple Cleansing Suitable for All Skin Types?

For many, three is the magic number, detoxing their skin and leaving it primed to soak up all the goodness of their serums and creams. This holds especially true for combination and oily skin types. 

That said, triple-cleansing may be too intense if you have dry or sensitive skin. If you’re not cautious, it could strip away healthy oils and leave your complexion feeling tight and dehydrated.

In other words, even too much of a good thing is still too much. 

Potential Drawbacks and Considerations

Over-cleansing is a genuine concern in the skincare world. It can disrupt your skin’s natural barrier, leading to dryness, irritation, and even breakouts. It’s all about striking the right balance and tuning in to your complexion’s needs.

Here are a few tips to mitigate the adverse effects of excessive cleansing:

• Limit the frequency. It might not be necessary to triple cleanse every day. Try reserving it for days when you wear heavy makeup or hit the gym.

Remember, while triple cleansing can be a skincare revelation for some, it’s best to tread carefully. 

Alternatives to Triple Cleansing

If you find that the magic of three isn’t so magical, don’t worry—you’ve got options.

Here are two alternative cleansing methods that are just as effective:

Double-cleansing

Ditch the micellar water and stick to an oil-based cleanser, followed by a nourishing cream, gel, or foaming cleanser. This offers a balanced approach, ensuring cleanliness without over-stripping your skin.

Exfoliating regularly

Incorporate exfoliation into your routine to slough off dead skin cells and reveal a brighter complexion. MD GLAM's Exfoliating Enzyme Scrub promotes cell turnover, unclogs pores, and polishes your skin—all without stripping it of its protective oils.

So, don’t get bogged down by fleeting fads and viral sensations—embrace what truly works for you!

MD GLAM: Glow Beyond the Trends

Exploring new trends is part of what makes beauty and skincare so fun. At MD GLAM, we’re all about experimenting with your routine, but at the end of the day? Nothing beats a personalized regimen that speaks directly to your skin's needs.

Triple-cleansing may be all the rage, but its effectiveness varies from person to person. Don’t forget to be mindful of the potential drawbacks and approach each new trend cautiously. 

Whether you're a triple cleansing enthusiast or prefer a simpler routine, we’re happy to support you in finding your skincare bliss. 

Shop our collection of luxurious, medical-grade skincare products today.