Our Best Cleansing Oils for Clean, Refreshed, and Hydrated Skin 

Key Takeaways

How They Work: Cleansing oils operate on the "like-dissolves-like" principle, effortlessly breaking down oil-based impurities such as stubborn makeup, SPF, and excess sebum far more effectively than water-based cleansers alone.

Best for Double Cleansing: They are the ideal first step in a double cleansing routine. By using a cleansing oil first on dry skin, you remove the top layer of grime, allowing your second water-based cleanser to deeply clean the skin itself.

Suitable for All Skin Types: Modern cleansing oils are formulated to rinse clean without leaving a greasy residue, making them suitable for just about everyone, including those with oily and blemish-prone skin. They help balance the skin by cleansing thoroughly without stripping its natural moisture barrier.

What is a Cleansing Oil?

Cleansing oils are, as the name describes, oil-based cleansers. They have an oily, liquid-y consistency that feels soft and smooth on the skin. Some oil cleansers have an oil-to-foam consistency, meaning they feel oily when you first apply them but foam up when they’re met with water.

What are the Benefits of Using a Cleansing Oil?

Oil cleansers can effectively remove makeup, sweat, sunscreen, and grime with minimal tugging or rubbing. They usually do a faster job of breaking down makeup and impurities than water-based cleansers, since the oil-based formula works to attract and dissolve other oils. Cleansing oils are gentle and can work for every skin type, including oily skin — they won’t over-dry your skin or leave behind an oily residue once you rinse them off.

“If you use oil-based products or have oily skin, an oil cleanser is necessary to melt the oil away,” dermatology resident physician Dr. Joyce Kim previously told Skincare.com. When used in combination with a water-based cleanser, Dr. Kim explained, it can help remove “as much debris as possible” and allow for better absorption of the serums and moisturizers you layer on top of clean skin. Plus, thoroughly cleansing your skin helps prevent clogged pores, which can later turn into breakouts. A board-certified dermatologist can help you determine if a cleansing oil is right for you.

How Does a Cleansing Oil Work?

Cleansing oils dissolve oil, such as oil-based makeup, sunscreen, excess sebum, and sweat. If you notice that water-based cleansers aren’t always effective at taking off your makeup (particularly if you wear full-coverage foundation or waterproof products), or if your skin is very oily, a cleansing oil may be a great addition to your skincare routine, especially as the first step of the double-cleansing method (more on that below) or during your “everything shower” ritual. They’re also the perfect cleansers for skin recovery nights, as they provide a gentle, non-stripping clean that preps the skin for barrier-repairing moisturizers.

How to Use Cleansing Oils

Most cleansing oils can be applied to wet or dry skin, then massaged into the face. If you’re wearing heavy makeup or sunscreen, you may want to take your time massaging the product into your skin, allowing it to fully break down any impurities on your skin. Next, you can wash away the cleansing oil with water and follow with either a water-based cleanser as part of the double-cleansing method, or continue with your usual skincare routine. This is how most cleansing oils work, but you should always double-check the instructions on your cleansing oil of choice to be sure before use.

How to Double Cleanse with a Cleansing Oil

“If you tend to wear heavy makeup every day, and a traditional cleanser is not enough to remove it, then it may help to double cleanse as part of your evening routine to ensure the makeup is completely removed,” says Dr. Marisa Garshick, a board-certified dermatologist. To double cleanse, start by applying several pumps of a cleansing oil to dry skin, gently massaging the formula in circular motions. Once you notice your makeup coming off, wash your face with lukewarm water and follow with a water-based cleanser, such as the CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser. You’ll know a cleanser is water-based if “water” is listed as the first ingredient on the label.

Our Best Cleansing Oils for Every Need

Best Overall: Kiehl’s Midnight Recovery Botanical Cleansing Oil

This lightweight oil is a fan favorite for a reason. It emulsifies with water into a cleansing milk, effortlessly dissolving stubborn makeup. Formulated with squalane and lavender essential oils, it leaves all skin types feeling soft, soothed, and ready for your nighttime routine.

Best for Dry & Sensitive Skin: La Roche-Posay Lipikar AP+ Gentle Foaming Cleansing Oil

Accepted by the National Eczema Association, this gentle formula is a hero for dry, sensitive skin on both face and body. It cleanses away debris while providing 24-hour hydration, helping to protect the skin from the drying effects of water. It contains soothing niacinamide and lipid-replenishing shea butter.

Best for a Luxury Experience: Shu Uemura Ultime8 Sublime Beauty Cleansing Oil

For a truly spa-like cleanse, this iconic oil delivers. With a silky texture and a blend of eight botanical oils, it melts away long-wear makeup while leaving skin feeling moisturized and soft. It helps to refine skin texture and minimize the look of pores over time.

Best for Oily & Blemish-Prone Skin: Shu Uemura Porefinist2 Sakura Refreshing Cleansing Oil

If you have oily skin, don't be afraid of this cleanser. This water-like formula is specifically designed to target excess sebum and help reduce the appearance of blackheads and pores. It leaves the skin feeling refreshed and matte without any tightness.

Best for Dull Skin: Shu Uemura Anti/Oxi+ Pollutant & Dullness Clarifying Cleansing Oil

Formulated to combat the effects of environmental aggressors that can lead to dullness, this invigorating cleansing oil helps to clarify and refresh the complexion. Not only does it remove impurities and leave the skin with a radiant, healthy-looking glow, but it also boasts a citrus-and-ginger scent.