If you’ve ever struggled with removing waterproof mascara, long-wear foundation, or layers of SPF, you’re not alone. Traditional makeup wipes and water-based cleansers often fall short. Enter: cleansing oils—the skincare saviors that melt away makeup, dirt, and excess oil without stripping your skin dry.
Whether you’re double cleansing or simply want a one-step makeup remover that works, the right cleansing oil can transform your nighttime routine. In this guide, we’ll explore how cleansing oils work, who should use them, and what to look for when choosing one.
Let’s dive into the skincare essentials of cleansing oils for effective makeup removal.
What Is a Cleansing Oil?
Cleansing oils are oil-based facial cleansers formulated to:
- Break down makeup
- Dissolve sunscreen
- Remove excess sebum and impurities
- Leave the skin soft, not squeaky
They typically contain emollient oils (like jojoba, olive, or sunflower) along with emulsifiers that allow the oil to rinse off with water. That means no greasy residue left behind—just clean, nourished skin.
Why Use a Cleansing Oil?
Unlike foaming cleansers that can dry or strip the skin, cleansing oils maintain the skin’s natural moisture barrier. They’re especially effective at removing:
- Long-wear makeup (foundation, eyeliner, lipstick)
- Water-resistant sunscreen
- Excess sebum and oil-based impurities
- Pollution and debris
Plus, they’re gentle enough for most skin types—including sensitive skin—when used properly.
How Do Cleansing Oils Work?
The science behind cleansing oils is based on a simple principle: like dissolves like.
Oil-based makeup, SPF, and skin oils (sebum) bind better to other oils than to water. When you massage a cleansing oil into dry skin, it attaches to these impurities. Once you add water, the emulsifiers help lift everything off your skin, allowing for a thorough rinse.
Cleansing Oils vs. Cleansing Balms: What’s the Difference?
Both do the same job, but the texture is the key difference.
| Cleansing Oil | Cleansing Balm |
| Liquid texture | Solid or semi-solid |
| Easy to spread | Needs to be warmed up |
| Great for quick cleansing | Ideal for dry skin or massage routines |
Both are fantastic for effective makeup removal and can be used interchangeably depending on your preference.
How to Use Cleansing Oil Correctly
To get the most out of your cleansing oil, follow these steps:
- Start with dry hands and a dry face
Do not wet your skin first. - Apply 1–2 pumps of cleansing oil
Massage gently for 30–60 seconds, focusing on areas with heavy makeup. - Add a bit of water
This will emulsify the oil, turning it into a milky texture. - Massage again and rinse thoroughly
Use lukewarm water to wash everything away. - Follow with a water-based cleanser
This is the second step in the double cleansing method—great for acne-prone or oily skin.
Best Ingredients to Look for in a Cleansing Oil
When shopping for a cleansing oil, look for non-comedogenic, skin-friendly oils like:
- Jojoba oil: Mimics natural skin oils, great for acne-prone skin
- Sunflower seed oil: Lightweight and rich in vitamin E
- Olive oil: Nourishing and antioxidant-rich
- Squalane: Non-greasy and deeply hydrating
- Rice bran oil: Gentle and brightening, often found in K-beauty formulas
Also, choose products that are fragrance-free and mineral oil-free if you have sensitive or reactive skin.
Best Cleansing Oils by Skin Type (No Brand Promotions)
Here’s a guide to choosing the best cleansing oil based on your skin type, without promoting any specific brands—just the ingredients to look out for:
For Oily or Acne-Prone Skin
Look for:
- Lightweight, non-comedogenic oils (like grapeseed or hemp seed oil)
- Added salicylic acid or tea tree oil (to help prevent breakouts)
Avoid:
- Coconut oil or mineral oil (can clog pores)
For Dry Skin
Look for:
- Richer oils like avocado or olive oil
- Emollients like shea butter or ceramides
- Hydrating additives like hyaluronic acid
These oils cleanse while replenishing lost moisture.
For Sensitive Skin
Look for:
- Simple formulas with few ingredients
- Calming oils like oat kernel or camellia oil
- Fragrance-free and alcohol-free options
Avoid strong essential oils or added fragrance, which can cause irritation.
For Combination Skin
Look for:
- Balanced formulas with jojoba, sunflower, or rosehip oil
- Lightweight but nourishing blends
- Dual-phase formulas (oil-to-milk emulsions)
Combination skin can benefit from oils that hydrate dry areas and control oily zones.
Benefits of Using a Cleansing Oil Every Day
- Deep-cleans without stripping
- Helps remove stubborn waterproof makeup
- Keeps pores clean and clear
- Supports your skin barrier
- Makes double cleansing more effective
Using a cleansing oil as your first step ensures the rest of your skincare—like serums and moisturizers—can do their job better.
When Should You Avoid Cleansing Oils?
While cleansing oils are generally safe, here are a few cases where caution is needed:
- If you have fungal acne (Malassezia): Some oils may trigger it—stick to fungal-acne-safe oils like squalane
- If your skin is irritated or broken out: Use a gentle cream cleanser instead until it calms down
- If you use eyelash extensions: Oil can break down the glue—use a non-oil-based remover
When Should You Use Cleansing Oils?
- Nighttime is best—especially if you wore makeup, SPF, or live in a polluted area.
- You don’t usually need cleansing oils in the morning unless you have extremely oily skin or wore overnight makeup.
Final Thoughts
When it comes to effective makeup removal, cleansing oils are hands-down one of the best tools in your skincare arsenal. They gently but thoroughly remove the day’s buildup—leaving your skin clean, soft, and ready to absorb all the good stuff that follows.
By choosing the right oil for your skin type and using it the right way, you can elevate your cleansing routine and support healthier, clearer skin.