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The Best Oil Cleansers For Every Skin Type That Will Melt Away Waterproof Makeup, Dirt & More

By Katrina Mitzeliotis Lanza

Published on Mar 19, 2021

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Black woman in a white tank top washing her face Desktop

If you aren’t using an oil cleanser, it’s time you start ASAP. Look, we understand why oil might not be the first thing you associate with getting a clean, clear complexion. The reality is that slathering oil on your face is one of the most effective ways to remove stubborn waterproof makeup, dirt, sunscreen, and, yes, even excess oil. These multitasking formulas are like a makeup remover and cleanser all in one. The concept (like many widespread beauty regimens) was adopted from the world of Korean skincare and is typically the first step in a double-cleansing routine. However, many oil cleansers are effective to use all on their own.

If you have oily, acne-prone skin or even a shiny t-zone, this also applies to you. Oil dissolves oil, so if you want to ensure you give your skin the deep clean it needs, an oil-based cleanser is the way to go, as it typically contains an oil base and a surfactant. Think of surfactants as microscopic dirt magnets which attach to excess oil, traces of dirt, and even waterproof makeup to lift it from the skin barrier so these culprits can’t clog pores. Not only is it the easiest way to remove stubborn makeup (without excessive tugging or rubbing required!), but it also won’t dry out your complexion or mess with your skin’s natural oils the way a foaming cleanser can. That’s especially important if you have sensitive skin and oily, acne-prone skin, too.

We understand why you might be tempted to “dry out” your complexion (especially if you often find a shiny T-zone in the mirror glaring back at you), but by doing so with a harsh cleanser or makeup wipes, you kick your oil glands into overdrive. In turn, your skin will produce excess sebum to compensate for drying it out, and you’ll be stuck in a vicious cycle that can lead to clogged pores and bad breakouts.

Now that we’ve addressed acne-prone skin, another reason many are hesitant to try an oil cleanser is because they simply can’t quit their makeup wipes. Look, we understand the convenience, but the reality is they might be doing more harm than good for your skin. Not only are a majority of makeup wipes overdrying, but they often require a lot of rubbing and tugging, which is detrimental to your skin barrier, in addition to the fact that what they’re really doing is moving a lot of makeup around your face, spreading dirt, oil, and even bacteria in the process—no thank you. If you want to leave your skin feeling clean, it might be time to add an oil cleanser to your list of must-have skincare products.

Before you splash water on your face and reach for your new oil cleanser, you should know that the way to approach cleansing is totally different from your traditional routine. Instead of wetting your complexion, you want to apply your oil cleanser directly on dry skin and massage it in so it can lift away all the impurities and dirt from your day. You’ll be amazed at how easily your mascara comes off—trust me. Next, rinse with warm water or wipe it away with a clean, damp cloth. Making sure you wipe away any residue of oil is crucial so your serums and moisturizers can penetrate as you move onto your skincare routine. If you’re going to double cleanse, you can follow up with another cleanser once you’ve washed it away.

Not sure which oil cleanser is right for you? Well, you’ve come to the right place. We’ve rounded up the best cleansing oils for every skin type to help you achieve the gentle, deep clean your complexion craves.

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1. Best antioxidant cleanser:

TATA HARPER Nourishing Oil Cleanser

Cleanse your skin and protect your complexion against free radical damage in one step. This over-achieving formula is made with 100% natural ingredients including vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, which work together to dissolve makeup and break down build-up, all while keeping your skin protected from premature signs of aging. Infused with jojoba oil, castor oil, grapeseed oil, argan oil, and olive oil, this unique blend is like a booster shot for your skin and it will leave you with clean, smooth skin.

2. Best for oily skin:

DERMALOGICA Precleanse

The most effective way to remove stubborn makeup and achieve a deep clean is with a double cleanse, and this oil-based formula is the first step in the process. Not only will it melt away sunscreen, waterproof makeup, excess oil, and environmental pollutants, but it’s also suitable for oily skin, making it a great go-to for those who may still be weary of using an oil cleanser.

3. Best to improve skin texture:

ELEMIS Nourishing Omega-Rich Cleansing Oil

On the quest for soft, smooth skin? Look no further than this pH-balancing cleansing oil that will improve skin tone and texture as it also removes dirt and impurities, thanks to a unique blend of pomegranate, chia seed oil, and winter rose oil. While pomegranate is rich in vitamin C, chia seed oil serves up a heaping dose of omega 6 and omega 3 fatty acids. Winter rose oil replaces lost lipids all while improving the texture of your complexion in the process. It’s like a cleanser and moisturizer all in one.

4. Best drugstore buy:

NEUTROGENA Ultra Light Cleansing Oil

If you’re looking for an affordable cleansing oil that won’t break the bank, this dermatologist-tested, non-comedogenic cleanser is it. It washes away dirt, bacteria, and even waterproof mascara—and it’s under $10.

5. Most soothing cleanser:

INNISFREE Hydrating Cleansing Oil

Calming green tea can soothe skin and remove excess oil, dirt, and makeup, leaving you with soft, smooth skin thanks to this lightweight, oil-based cleanser that’s made sans soap. It’s tough enough to wash away the remnants of the day yet still gentle enough to treat, soothe, and hydrate your complexion.

6. Best anti-aging cleanser:

BEAUTYCOUNTER Countertime Lipid Defense Cleansing Oil

If you want to wash your face while also reducing premature signs of aging, reach for this brightening cleanser that’s packed with powerhouse ingredients. Vitamin E, essential fatty acids, and bakuchiol improves the skin’s moisture barrier and provides antioxidant defense without further stripping your skin. The result? A cleaner, younger-looking complexion, all thanks to this hydrating cleanser.

7. Best cleansing balm:

DRUNK ELEPHANT Slaai™ Makeup-Melting Butter Cleanser

For days when you need to wash away a full-face of glam, including waterproof makeup, this creamy balm works overtime to remove traces of makeup and dirt. Rub it directly on your face and then add water to watch it transform to a milky cleanser that will work magic on your complexion.

8. Best on-the-go cleanser:

GLOSSIER Milky Oil

Part micellar water, part oil cleanser, this no-rinse formula will melt away makeup and you won’t even have to rinse it away once you’re done. This gentle yet potent formula is tested by both dermatologists and opthamologists to ensure it’s safe for sensitive eyes (and skin). Plus, its convenient compact bottle is perfect for throwing in your beach bag, gym bag, or carry-on for whenever you need to cleanse on-the-go.

9. Best for acne-prone skin:

LANEIGE Cream Skin Milk Oil Cleanser

If you’re trying to clear up a breakout or banish blackheads, reach for this powerful cleanser that washes away dirt and makeup, all while helping to clear your complexion and remove impurities, thanks to a combination of milk oil and white leaf tea water which lap up excess oil. Pro tip: Use it after a workout to ensure pore-clogging dirt and sweat doesn’t stick around.

10. Best for sensitive skin:

TATCHA Pure One Step Camellia Cleansing Oil

Trying to find products that won’t stress out sensitive skin, especially if you suffer from eczema, is no easy task. This soothing, paraben-free, sulfate-free formula will leave your complexion clean, balanced, and nourished. It removes dirt, waterproof makeup, and sunscreen to leave you feeling fresh-faced, all thanks to Japanese camellia oil and a proprietary complex of green tea, algae, and rice. This potent trifecta is the secret to healthy skin and works to retain hydration, detoxify, and reduce signs of aging. Japanese camellia oil is even richer in oleic acid than olive oil and packed with vitamin A, vitamin D, and vitamin E, which combine to nourish skin from the inside out to give you a smooth, supple complexion that glows.

11. Best for dry skin:

DHC Deep Cleansing Oil®

This moisturizing oil cleanser uses a combination of vitamin E, organic oil, and rosemary oil to rinse away dirt and grime and remove makeup without drying out your complexion, leaving you with soft, smooth skin. Not only is the hydrating formula a must-have for dry skin, it’s one of the OG oil cleansers—over 20 years old. Bonus: You can even use it to clean off your makeup brushes.

12. Best for combination skin:

BIOSSANCE Squalane + Antioxidant Cleansing Oil

This antioxidant-rich face wash is all you need to give your skin a deep clean after a long day. It melts away impurities and excess oil using a combination of eight natural plant oils to leave you feeling fresh-faced.

13. Best for removing waterproof mascara:

KIEHL’S Midnight Recovery Botanical Cleansing Oil

Looking for a good evening cleanser that can scrub away stubborn makeup? Look no further than this potent and soothing blend. Not only will it clear away dirt, waterproof makeup, and excess oil, but using this cleanser after a long day will create a spa-like, aromatherapy experience in your bathroom thanks to the presence of lavender essential oils, evening primrose oil, and squalane.

14. Most luxurious cleanser:

LA MER The Cleansing Oil

We all deserve to treat ourselves every now and then, and the second you unbox the beautiful packaging of this luxe cleansing oil, you’ll certainly spark joy in your skincare routine. Crafted with the brand’s marine oil, this nourishing formula will remove dirt, makeup, and impurities while calming the skin in the process, leaving you with a clean complexion. Apply directly to dry skin and add water to emulsify and turn this into a milky treatment.

15. Best to use in the shower:

SHISEIDO Perfect Cleansing Oil

While 99% of oil cleansers are meant for use on dry skin, sometimes that just might not fit in with your routine, and that’s where this formula comes in. Suitable for use on both wet and dry skin, this multitasking oil cleanser is a great go-to, especially if you like to shower before bed and often hop in before you wash your face. Not only will it simplify your routine, but it also lifts dirt, grime, and makeup, leaving you with a dewey, clean complexion.

Regardless of which oil cleanser you decide on, you’ll still be able to benefit from a type of deep clean you didn’t think was possible without heavy scrubbing. For more on our latest beauty must-haves, subscribe to the Glam Bag, where you’ll get a monthly sampling delivered. Just take our Beauty Quiz now to get started. Already an Ipster? Refer your friends to earn points, which you can use toward products. Either way, don’t forget to check us out on Instagram and Twitter @IPSY.

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