Face Cleansing Steps at Home: A Simple Guide for Your Skin Type
Last updated 28 June 2026 · 8 min read
Getting your face cleansing steps at home right is the foundation of healthy skin, because the perfect cleanse removes makeup, oil and impurities without stripping your skin's natural moisture. With so many cleansers out there, though, knowing where to start can feel overwhelming.
This guide breaks down the face cleansing steps at home for every skin type, with clean, Australian-made picks for each. To shop the full range, browse the cleansers collection.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
- The core face cleansing steps at home: know your skin type, choose the right cleanser, cleanse properly, then follow up.
- Double cleanse at night, an oil or balm first to remove makeup and SPF, then a water-based cleanser.
- Use lukewarm water, massage for about 60 seconds, and pat (don't rub) dry.
- Cleanse morning and night, and adjust your cleanser with the seasons.
In this article
QUICK ANSWER
The key face cleansing steps at home are: identify your skin type, choose a cleanser to match, cleanse with lukewarm water for about 60 seconds, double cleanse at night to remove makeup and SPF, then follow with moisturiser and sunscreen. Cleanse morning and night for best results.
Step 1: Know Your Skin Type
The first of your face cleansing steps at home is understanding what your skin actually needs. A quick guide:
- Oily: shine, larger pores and breakouts, often through the T-zone.
- Dry: tight, flaky or rough, especially after washing.
- Combination: an oily T-zone with normal or dry cheeks.
- Sensitive: reddens, itches or stings easily with harsh products.
- Normal: balanced, neither too oily nor too dry.
Step 2: Choose the Right Cleanser
Once you know your skin type, match a cleanser to it. If you wear makeup or SPF, start your evening routine with a first cleanse, an oil or balm, then follow with a water-based cleanser suited to your skin.
First cleanse: oils & balms
Second cleanse: by skin type
Step 3: How to Cleanse Properly
The right cleanser is only half the job, how you cleanse matters just as much. These are the face cleansing steps at home that make the difference:
- Double cleanse at night. Start with an oil or balm to break down makeup, sunscreen and excess oil, then follow with a water-based cleanser to remove the day's impurities.
- Use lukewarm water. Hot water strips the skin's natural oils, so lukewarm is kinder and rinses just as well.
- Massage for about 60 seconds. Gentle, circular motions give a deeper cleanse and a moment of calm.
- Cleanse morning and night. A gentle cleanse in the morning, a double cleanse at night.
- Pat dry. Press a soft towel against the skin rather than rubbing, to avoid irritation.
Step 4: Adjust for the Seasons
Your skin's needs shift through the year, so your cleanser can too. In winter, lean on a richer first cleanse like the Marula Oil Cleanser to keep skin comfortable. In summer, a balancing gel like the Sweet Orange Cleanser helps manage oil and sweat. If your skin feels tight in air-conditioning or congested in humidity, a small swap keeps it happy.
Step 5: Follow With the Right Products
Cleansing is the first step, but the steps after it lock in the benefit:
- Hydrating toner or serum to replenish moisture straight after cleansing.
- Moisturiser suited to your skin type, to seal everything in.
- SPF every morning to protect your skin, even on cloudy days.
For more on the night-time routine, see our guide to how double cleansing benefits your skin, or find your match in the skin-type guide.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the steps to cleanse your face at home?
The main face cleansing steps at home are: know your skin type, choose a cleanser to match, cleanse with lukewarm water for about 60 seconds, double cleanse at night to remove makeup and SPF, then follow with moisturiser and sunscreen.
How do you cleanse your face properly?
Wet your face with lukewarm water, massage a small amount of cleanser in gentle circles for around 60 seconds, rinse well and pat dry with a soft towel. Avoid hot water and scrubbing, which can irritate the skin.
Should you cleanse your face twice a day?
Yes, for most skin types. A gentle cleanse in the morning removes overnight build-up, and a cleanse at night, ideally a double cleanse, removes makeup, SPF and the day's impurities.
What is double cleansing?
Double cleansing means using an oil or balm cleanser first to break down makeup and sunscreen, then a water-based cleanser to clean the skin underneath. It is especially useful at night.
How long should you cleanse your face for?
About 60 seconds. Massaging the cleanser in for a full minute gives a more thorough clean than a quick rinse, without over-doing it.
Explore more: Shop cleansers, moisturisers and Australian skincare at VAMS Beauty.
Read more on The VAMS Edit: How Double Cleansing Benefits Your Skin
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This breakdown of cleansing routines is exactly what I needed. Choosing the right cleanser can be a challenge, and this guide simplifies it beautifully by focusing on skin type. I’m particularly interested in the Muse by Gaia Jelly Cloud Milky Cleanser for winter – it sounds ideal for keeping skin soft and hydrated. The free gift promo is a great incentive to find the best match for my skin. Thanks for making it easier to choose skincare with confidence xx
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