Unbranded Korean-style oil cleansers on a pastel background with silk fabric and skincare accessories, representing the double cleansing method.
If you’re serious about skincare, you’ve probably heard of double cleansing. It’s not just a trend—it’s a game-changer. And the first step in that routine? A good oil cleanser. Whether you wear makeup daily or just sunscreen, an oil cleanser can help break it all down without stripping your skin.
What Is Double Cleansing?
Double cleansing is exactly what it sounds like: washing your face twice, but with two different types of cleansers.
Step one: an oil-based cleanser that breaks down makeup, sunscreen, and excess oil.
Step two: a water-based cleanser (like a gel or foam) that cleans deeper into your pores.
Why Use an Oil Cleanser?
It might sound weird to use oil on your skin—especially if you’re oily or acne-prone—but oil attracts oil. An oil cleanser dissolves makeup, sebum, and SPF without harsh scrubbing.
Benefits of oil cleansing:
- Removes stubborn makeup and sunscreen
- Unclogs pores
- Softens blackheads
- Prevents dryness and irritation
- Preps skin for deeper cleansing
Best Oil Cleansers for 2025
1. DHC Deep Cleansing Oil
- Rich in olive oil and vitamin E
- Melts waterproof makeup
- Great for dry and combination skin
2. The Face Shop Rice Water Bright Light Cleansing Oil
- Brightens while cleansing
- Light texture
- Good for oily skin types
3. Banila Co Clean It Zero Cleansing Balm (Original)
- Balm-to-oil texture
- Removes makeup in seconds
- Great for sensitive skin
4. Then I Met You Living Cleansing Balm
- Sea buckthorn oil and persimmon
- Smooth, luxurious texture
- Ideal for dry, dull skin
5. Burt’s Bees Cleansing Oil with Coconut & Argan Oils
- 100% natural origin
- No parabens, sulfates
- Great for normal to dry skin
6. JUNO & Co Clean 10 Cleansing Balm
- Affordable and effective
- Minimal ingredients
- Suitable for all skin types
7. Heimish All Clean Balm
- K-beauty favorite
- Sherbet-like feel
- Works well for combo and sensitive skin
How to Use an Oil Cleanser
- Use on dry face and dry hands
- Massage 1–2 pumps (or a scoop of balm) gently
- Add water to emulsify (it’ll turn milky)
- Rinse well
- Follow with a water-based cleanser
Tips:
- Use every evening if you wear SPF or makeup
- Avoid using it on wet skin
Common Myths About Oil Cleansing
- “Oil will clog my pores.” → Not true if rinsed well
- “I don’t wear makeup, so I don’t need it.” → Sunscreen and pollution require removal
- “I have oily skin. Oil cleansers aren’t for me.” → They can actually balance oil production
Best Ingredients in Oil Cleansers
- Olive oil – Nourishing and antioxidant-rich
- Sunflower seed oil – Light, non-comedogenic
- Rice bran oil – Brightening
- Grapeseed oil – Acne-friendly
- Sea buckthorn oil – Healing, anti-inflammatory
- Squalane – Balances skin’s natural oils
Ingredients to avoid:
- Mineral oil (comedogenic for some)
- Heavy fragrance
- High concentration essential oils
FAQs
Q: Can I use coconut oil instead?
A: Not ideal. It clogs pores for many people.
Q: How often should I oil cleanse?
A: Daily if you wear SPF/makeup; otherwise 3–4 times/week.
Q: Will it make my skin oily?
A: No. It often reduces excess oil production.
Final Thoughts
Oil cleansing isn’t just for beauty experts. It’s for anyone who wants softer, cleaner, calmer skin. You don’t need expensive products—just the right formula. Once you try it, you might never go back. Let your skin breathe and give oil cleansing a go!
💡 Tip: Tell us your favorite oil cleanser in the comments—we love hearing real recommendations!