7 Oil Cleansing Benefits
Oil cleansing is one of my favorite ways to gently remove makeup and build-up, especially as someone who’s always on the lookout for gentle, non-toxic options. It’s more than just a method for taking off the day’s makeup or sunscreen—it’s a nourishing ritual that supports the skin barrier and leaves your complexion feeling hydrated and refreshed. I even love taking a minute to add in a massage or a little gua sha treatment while I use an oil cleanser! Whether you’re new to natural skincare or looking for ways to simplify your routine, I’m excited to share this roundup of 7 oil cleansing benefits that I think you’ll love.
From breaking down stubborn products to helping balance oily skin, oil cleansing offers numerous benefits, regardless of your skin type. If you’ve ever wondered whether it’s worth trying or felt unsure about how they work, this post will walk you through everything you need to know about oil cleansers, including how to use them properly and why they deserve a place in your routine.
7 Oil Cleansing Benefits To Make You A Convert
If you’re curious about oil cleansing, you’ve come to the right place! This post gives a full picture of what oil cleansing does, how it can support different skin types (including acne-prone skin and dry skin), and how to do it properly for the best results.
Whether you’re using a dedicated oil based cleanser or DIYing it with something like olive oil, this guide will help you understand how oil attracts oil, why this method can help remove makeup and excess oils, and how it plays a role in protecting your skin barrier.
What Is Oil Cleansing
Oil cleansing is a method of cleansing the face using oils instead of traditional soaps or foaming face washes. The basic idea is simple: oil attracts oil. So rather than stripping the skin with harsh detergents, oil cleansing dissolves makeup, sunscreen, and the excess oils that build up throughout the day—without compromising your skin barrier.
Experts and estheticians alike love this method because it’s gentle, customizable, and works well for nearly every skin type. Oil cleansers are often rich in nutrients and fatty acids, which help support the skin while removing dirt and dead skin cells.
It’s a particularly great option for those with dry skin or sensitive skin, since it doesn’t cause tightness or irritation like some water based cleansers can. And yes—even oily skin and acne prone skin can benefit from oil cleansing when done correctly!
How Does Oil Cleansing Work
Oil cleansing works on the principle that “like dissolves like.” Oils in the cleanser bind to the oils on your skin—including sebum, makeup, and sunscreen—and gently lift them away when you massage the oil into your skin.
After applying your oil cleanser, you use a damp warm washcloth to gently wipe away the oil, along with the impurities it has lifted. Many people choose to follow this step with a water based cleanser, known as the double cleanse method, especially if they wear a lot of makeup or have oily skin.
Some oil cleansers are designed to rinse clean. Though I haven’t found one that rinses entirely clean, I do prefer these as they’re the easiest to wash off. I’ll share some of my favorites below!
What Are The Benefits of Oil Cleansing
1. Effectively Removes Makeup and Sunscreen
Cleansing oils are incredibly effective at breaking down stubborn makeup and sunscreen—even waterproof formulas. When you massage the oil into your skin, it melts away the products without the need for scrubbing or harsh wipes.
2. Supports the Skin Barrier
Unlike traditional cleansers that can strip the skin of its natural oils, oil cleansers help maintain a healthy skin barrier. This is especially important if you deal with dry skin, irritation, or sensitivity.
3. Balances Oil Production
It might seem counterintuitive, but oil cleansing can actually help balance oily skin. By using the right oils, your skin is less likely to overproduce oil in response to dryness.
4. Suitable for All Skin Types
Whether you have dry skin, acne prone skin, or combination skin, there’s an oil or oil blend that can work for you. You just need to choose an oil based cleanser that’s right for your skin type.
5. Gently Exfoliates and Clears Pores
Oil cleansing can help loosen and lift dead skin cells, dirt, and other debris from your pores. This makes it easier to keep breakouts at bay—especially when paired with a warm cloth to gently wipe away the oil. Some also include enzymes of AHAs to further help exfoliate.
6. Hydrating and Nourishing
Many oils used in oil cleansing—like olive oil, jojoba, or sunflower seed oil—are packed with vitamins and essential fatty acids. These nourish the skin while cleansing, leaving it soft and moisturized.
7. Preps the Skin for Other Products
Because oil cleansing clears away buildup, it allows your serums, moisturizers, and other treatments to absorb more effectively.
How to Properly Oil Cleanse
1. Choose the Right Oil or Cleanser
Pick an oil based cleanser that suits your skin type. For example, olive oil works well for dry skin, while grapeseed or jojoba oil is better for oily or acne prone skin.
2. Start With Dry Hands and a Dry Face
Apply the oil directly to dry skin—this allows it to bind with the oil and debris more effectively.
3. Massage the Oil In
Use gentle, circular motions to massage the oil into your skin for about one to two minutes. Focus on areas with makeup or congestion. I can often see the exfoliation in action as I massage. Certain oil cleansers almost have a gommage effect (throwing that in for the real skincare nerds).
4. Use a Damp Warm Washcloth
Soak a clean washcloth in warm water, wring it out, and place it over your face to steam for a few seconds. Then use it to gently wipe away the oil. If your oil cleanser is formulated to rinse clean, you may be able to skip the washcloth. Simply add warm water to emulsify the cleanser and then rinse it off.
5. Follow With a Water Based Cleanser (Optional)
If you wear heavy makeup or have oily skin, you may want to double cleanse by following up with a gentle water based cleanser to ensure everything is rinsed away. I prefer to double cleanse, but some with very dry or sensitive skin may prefer just the oil cleanser.
6. Moisturize as Usual
After oil cleansing, your skin should feel soft and clean—not tight. Follow with your favorite toner, serum, or moisturizer to lock in hydration.
If you’re overhauling your skincare routine or just simplifying it for summer, you might enjoy this post on the best summer beauty products. It’s packed with clean and effective options to support your skin during the warmer months.
My 3 Favorite Oil Cleansers
If you’re ready to try oil cleansing but not sure where to start, here are three of my go-to cleansing oils that I’ve personally used and loved. These are all gentle, effective, and packed with nourishing ingredients to support your skin barrier and suit a variety of skin types. Oh, and they’re all formulated to rinse off easily.
1. One Love Organics Botanical B Enzyme Cleansing Oil
This is my everyday favorite I’ve used for years. It melts away makeup sunscreen and excess oils effortlessly, and it’s perfect for dry skin or oily skin with the added enzymes. I love how soft and hydrated my skin feels afterward.
→ Shop Botanical B here
2. Leahlani Pamplemousse Tropical Enzyme Cleansing Oil
Great for acne prone skin or anyone dealing with oily skin, this one has a lighter texture that doesn’t clog pores. It helps keep my skin balanced while still being super gentle. I love the tropical scent! It also has added enzymes to help dissolve dead skin cells.
→ Shop Pamplemousse here
3. Sahajan Essential Cleansing Oil
A solid option for all skin types, especially if you’re new to oil cleansing. This one is a little richer than the other two but also rinses clean and works well with double cleansing. I usually follow this one with a water based cleanser.
→ Shop Essential Cleansing Oil here
I rotate between these depending on the season or how my skin is feeling. If you’re curious about which might work best for your routine, feel free to reach out or check out my reviews!
Final Thoughts
Oil cleansing is a game-changer in any skincare routine—whether you’re looking to remove makeup, balance oily skin, or support your skin barrier. With the right products and technique, you can enjoy all the benefits of oil cleansing without irritation or breakouts.
Ready to give it a try? Start with a simple oil based cleanser, experiment with what works for your skin type, and enjoy your clean, nourished skin!
