Key ingredients: pumpkin, pineapple, papaya, and grapefruit enzymes, squalane, chia, moringa, spirulina, kelp | Who it’s for: people who want light exfoliation | Fragrance-free: yes | Additional benefits: brightening, soothing | Size: 4 oz | How often to use: twice daily
Best Fragrance-Free: Clinique Take the Day Off Cleansing Oil
Why it’s worth it: Few oil cleansers rack up five-star reviews like Clinique’s Take the Day Off Cleansing Oil. True to its name, this formula tackles even the most stubborn makeup dregs like a pro and rinses away without any residue. It’s ophthalmologist-tested, so there is no need to worry about irritated eyes, and it’s synthetic fragrance-free, so sensitive skin types are more than welcome to the party.
The more you know: This cleansing oil is somewhat of a one-trick pony—it does its job spectacularly, but you won’t get many extra benefits.
Key ingredients: glycerin | Who it’s for: people who wear plenty of makeup | Fragrance-free: yes | Additional benefits: n/a | Size: 6.7 oz | How often to use: nightly
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a cleansing oil?
“Cleansing oil” refers to oil-based face washes that replenish moisture and gently remove makeup, excess sebum, and sunscreen. According to Shereene Idriss, MD, a New York City-based board-certified dermatologist, cleansing oils don’t strip your skin of its natural moisture, which is essential for a plump, smooth, and fine line-free complexion. “Cleansing oils usually contain an oil base, along with a traditional skin-cleansing ingredient called a surfactant, which helps bind to dirt on the skin and remove it without disrupting the skin barrier,” Joshua Zeichner, MD, director of cosmetic and clinical research at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City, explains further.
Who can use cleansing oils?
In short, everyone! If you have oily or acne-prone skin, the concept of slathering on any oil-based products like cleansing oils might seem counterintuitive—but think again. “Because makeup and sebum are lipophilic [meaning they dissolve in oil], using an oil-based cleanser can be more effective,” says David Kim, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in New York City.
While oil-based cleansers—or any cleansers, for that matter—don’t stay on your face for too long, it doesn’t hurt that most are infused with moisturizing ingredients, like jojoba seed oil, apricot kernel oil, and Centella asiatica extract, which actively nourish skin while giving it a deep clean. If you have sensitive skin, just check the label’s ingredients list to ensure the formula doesn’t contain any irritants like synthetic fragrances.
How do I use a cleansing oil?
Make sure you work your cleansing oil onto dry skin so it breaks down waterproof makeup, sunscreen, and dirt before rinsing off with lukewarm water or gently wiping it away with a soft muslin cloth. Plus, since cleansing oil dissolves makeup, it’s a great first step if you have product residue on your face. “Use it as a first step to remove all the makeup. Rub it in and massage it in circular motions for 2-3mins to get all the makeup off the skin,” Dr. Kim advises.
How often should I use a cleansing oil?
Each product bears different usage instructions, so read the back of the bottle for details on how often to use your cleanser. Still, most cleansing oils are fine to use twice daily, but start once daily to see how your skin reacts to your new pick.
Is double-cleansing worth it?
Like with all skin care, whether you double-cleanse or not depends on your personal preferences and lifestyle. In case you need a refresher, double-cleansing—that is, starting your routine with a remove-it-all cleansing oil (or cleansing balm) to dissolve makeup, sebum, and sunscreen before going in with a water-based cleanser to remove remaining impurities—has gone from a niche Korean skin-care step to a mainstream practice over the past decade or so.
