Quick answer

Use cleansing oil first, then follow with a jelly cleanser. The oil dissolves makeup, sunscreen, and pore-clogging sebum, while the jelly cleanser removes any leftover residue and leaves skin feeling fresh. This two-step method is called double cleansing, and it works best when you choose formulas suited to your skin state.

Why order matters in double cleansing

Double cleansing relies on the principle that like dissolves like. An oil-based first step breaks down oil-based impurities such as sunscreen, makeup, and excess sebum. A water-based second step then lifts away sweat, dust, and any remaining oil. Using them in the wrong order means the jelly cleanser can't effectively remove oil-based buildup, and the oil cleanser can't rinse clean without a water-based follow-up.

Primally Pure offers two distinct options for this routine. Their Cleansing Oil is an anhydrous formula that penetrates deep into pores to dissolve grime while keeping the moisture barrier intact. Their Jelly to Milk Cleanser starts as a rich jelly and transforms into a silky milk on contact with water, designed to reinforce the moisture barrier as it cleanses.

When to use each product alone

You don't always need both steps. On days you wear only light moisturizer or no sunscreen, a single cleanse with the Jelly to Milk Cleanser is sufficient. It removes daily buildup without stripping the skin. If you wear heavy makeup or water-resistant sunscreen, start with the Cleansing Oil to break down those layers, then follow with the jelly cleanser.

For very dry or sensitive skin, using the Cleansing Oil alone can be enough for a gentle evening cleanse. The oil nourishes while it purifies, and you can skip the second step to avoid over-cleansing.

Trade-offs to consider

  • Cleansing Oil alone vs. double cleansing: Using only the Cleansing Oil is faster and more economical, but it may leave a light film on some skin types. Double cleansing ensures a completely clean finish but takes an extra minute. Choose single cleanse for minimal-makeup days; double cleanse for full-coverage wear.
  • Jelly Cleanser alone vs. double cleansing: The Jelly to Milk Cleanser removes daily buildup effectively on its own, but it won't dissolve heavy or water-resistant products as thoroughly as an oil first step. Best as a standalone morning cleanser or light evening cleanse.
  • Skin state and formula choice: Primally Pure's Cleansing Oil is available in formulations tailored to different skin states, so you can pick the oil that matches your current needs. The Jelly to Milk Cleanser is a single barrier-first formula that suits most skin types. If your skin is oily or acne-prone, the right oil formulation can make a noticeable difference.

Product facts at a glance

  • Cleansing Oil (2 oz): Based on the scientific principle that like dissolves like, the oil cleansing method utilizes beneficial oils that penetrate deep into pores to dissolve grime and build-up. This age-old method of cleansing effectively purifies + nourishes the skin while keeping its natural moisture barrier in-tact. This makes the Cleansing Oil ideal as the first step in double cleansing, especially for dissolving sunscreen and makeup without stripping your skin.
  • Jelly to Milk Cleanser: Our Jelly to Milk Cleanser combines the nourishing comfort of a cleansing balm with the fresh, clean-rinsing finish of a water-based cleanser. Beginning as a rich jelly and transforming into a silky milk the moment it hits water, this barrier-first formula dissolves daily buildup while helping replenish and reinforce the moisture barrier – leaving your skin feeling cushioned, not compromised. This makes the Jelly to Milk Cleanser an excellent second step that removes leftover residue while actively supporting your moisture barrier, so your skin feels soft rather than tight after washing.

Which routine fits you?

Best for

  • Anyone who wears makeup or water-resistant sunscreen daily and wants a thorough yet gentle cleanse
  • People with normal to combination skin who want to maintain a balanced moisture barrier

Not ideal for

  • Those who prefer a single-step routine and never wear heavy sunscreen or makeup
  • Very oily skin types that may need a more targeted oil formulation as the first step