How to use a cleansing oil: oil cleansing for every skin type
Short answer: Pump 2–3 doses of cleansing oil into dry hands and massage it over a dry face for 30–60 seconds to dissolve makeup, sunscreen and excess oil. Add a splash of water to turn the oil milky, then rinse thoroughly. In the evening, follow with a gentle water-based cleanser for a double cleanse.
Key takeaways
- Oil dissolves oil: makeup, SPF and sebum break down easily.
- Start with dry hands on a dry face, then emulsify with water.
- Double cleanse in the evening; a single gentle cleanse is enough in the morning.
- Most skin types, including oily and acne-prone, can use a rinse-off cleansing oil.
In this article
Why oil cleansing works
Makeup, sunscreen and the oil your skin produces are all oil-based, and oil dissolves oil. That makes a cleansing oil better at breaking down long-wear makeup and SPF than many foaming cleansers. Modern cleansing oils contain emulsifiers, so they turn milky with water and rinse off cleanly instead of leaving a greasy film.
How to use a cleansing oil, step by step
- Start with dry hands and a dry face. Water too early stops the oil from dissolving makeup properly.
- Apply 2–3 pumps and massage in small circles for 30–60 seconds. Spend extra time on the nose, chin and hairline.
- Remove eye makeup by gently pressing oil-coated fingertips over closed eyes for about 10 seconds, then sweeping outward.
- Emulsify. Wet your fingertips and keep massaging until the oil turns milky.
- Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water.
- Second cleanse (evening). Follow with a gentle foaming or gel cleanser.
Step 1: oil cleanse
A hydrating oil cleanser for everyday makeup, SPF and excess oil.
Step 2: water-based cleanse
A foaming cleanser to finish your evening double cleanse.
What is double cleansing?
Double cleansing means using an oil cleanser first to dissolve makeup, sunscreen and sebum, then a water-based cleanser to remove what’s left. It’s most useful in the evening, especially if you wear makeup or daily SPF. In the morning, a single gentle cleanse is usually enough.
Darcy tip: Keep your cleansing oil on the bathroom counter, not in the shower. You need dry hands and a dry face for it to work properly.
Is oil cleansing good for oily or acne-prone skin?
Often, yes. Dissolving excess oil can help keep pores clearer, which is why oil cleansing is a common first step in routines for blackheads. Choose a formula that emulsifies and rinses off fully, and stop if you notice more breakouts.
| Skin type | Does oil cleansing suit it? | Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Dry | Yes | Leaves skin feeling comfortable rather than tight |
| Oily | Usually | Always follow with a second cleanse in the evening |
| Acne-prone | Usually | Rinse thoroughly; avoid heavy plain oils |
| Sensitive | Yes | Massage gently and choose a fragrance-light formula |
| Combination | Yes | Focus the massage on the T-zone |
Cleansing oil vs micellar water vs makeup wipes
| Cleansing oil | Micellar water | Makeup wipes | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Waterproof makeup | Excellent | Fair | Fair |
| Sunscreen removal | Excellent | Good | Fair |
| Gentle on skin | Yes, no rubbing | Yes | Rubbing can irritate |
| Needs rinsing | Yes | Optional | No |
For waterproof makeup
Deep Cleansing Makeup Remover Oil
Ideal for waterproof mascara and long-wear foundation.
Dealing with blackheads too? Read How to get rid of blackheads on your nose.
Frequently asked questions
Do you need to double cleanse after a cleansing oil?
In the evening it’s recommended, especially if you wear makeup or sunscreen. A second, water-based cleanse removes any leftover residue.
Can cleansing oil clog pores?
A well-formulated cleansing oil that emulsifies and rinses off fully is unlikely to clog pores. Problems usually come from not rinsing thoroughly or from heavy plain oils.
Can you use coconut oil to cleanse your face?
It isn’t ideal. Coconut oil doesn’t rinse off cleanly and can clog pores in acne-prone skin. A cleansing oil with emulsifiers is a better choice.
Should you use cleansing oil in the morning?
You can, but it isn’t necessary. Most people only need a gentle cleanser or a splash of water in the morning and save oil cleansing for the evening.
Sources
- Cleveland Clinic. Double cleansing explained.
This article is for general information only and isn’t medical advice. Avoid getting products directly in your eyes, and patch test new products first.