Allow These Cleansing Oils to Remove Makeup and Debris Without Stripping Skin (2024)

Cleansing your face is arguably the most important step in any skin care routine as it lays the foundation for everything that follows. The best cleansing oil comes in handy when a traditional face wash isn’t enough to get everything off—think a tinted gel cream base, multiple rounds of sunscreen, a swipe (or several) of your favorite blush. Sure, your trusty micellar water can get most of it off, but not everything. That’s where cleansing oils come in. As the name suggests, these products contain oils that quickly and effectively remove debris, and makeup from the skin.

Vogue’s Favorite Cleansing Oils:

• The Editor’s Pick: Sulwhasoo Cleansing Oil, $40
• The French Pharmacy Favorite: La-Roche Posay Cleansing Oil, $18
• Best for Sensitive Skin: Bioderma Cleansing Oil, $22
• Best for Eczema-Prone Skin: Avène XeraCalm A.D Lipid-Replenishing Cleansing Oil, $31
• Best for Double Cleansing: Peach & Lily Cleansing Oil, $34
• Best for Makeup Removal: PCA Skin Cleansing Oil, $46
• Best Gentle: Kora Organics Gentle Cleansing Oil, $46
• Best K-Beauty: Anua Heartlead Pore Control Cleansing Oil, $18

According to board-certified dematologist Dr. Tiffany J. Libby, using an oil formulation abides by the principle of “like dissolves like” (for those of you who didn’t sleep through science class, this may ring a bell). This means that the oils in the cleansing oil are naturally attracted to the oils and impurities on the skin, facilitating the breakdown of makeup, sunscreen, dirt, and excess sebum without stripping the skin of its natural oils. Whether you’re in the mood for a double cleanse, or just want to try a new wash formula, ahead Vogue’s favorite cleansing oils that’ll leave your skin feeling fresh as spring.

In This Article:

• What is a cleansing oil?
• What are the origins of cleansing oil?
• How does it differ from other cleansers on the market?
• Ingredients and textures to look out for
• How to use cleansing oil
• Who is a cleansing oil best for?
• Do dermatologists recommend oil cleansing?
• How often should you oil cleanse?
• Do you have to follow a cleansing oil with a gel or foam cleanser?
• Meet The Experts

Sulwhasoo Cleansing Oil

• Why We Love It: The crème de la crème of cleansing oils, this K-beauty staple melts away makeup. Unlike many cleansers that strip the skin, this one helps maintain hydration, thanks to tangerine peel extract, squalene, and a blend of traditional Korean oils such as pine nut oil, camellia seed oil, and plum seed oil. And for those who love waterproof makeup but hate how long it takes to remove, just a swipe of this silky formula is all it takes to tackle even the toughest mascaras.
• Key Ingredients: Glycerin, squalene, mulberry leaf extracts, mountain yam extracts
• Size: 200 mL
• Best For: All skin types, dryness, uneven texture, oiliness
• Cruelty-Free: N
• Fragrance: Y

Typology Cleansing Oil

• Why We Love It: French beauty lovers might already be familiar with Typology, one of the leading brands for simple, efficacious formulas. This cleansing oil is a minimalist’s dream—fragrance-free, safe for sensitive skin, and contains only seven ingredients. In this case, less is more as sunflower seed oil cleanses the skin, and sweet almond oil nourishes and improves elasticity.
• Key Ingredients: Sweet almond oil, Sunflower Seed Oil, vitamin E, sunflower seed hybrid oil
• Size: 3.38 fl oz
• Best For: Suitable for all skin types and concerns
• Cruelty-Free: Y
• Fragrance: N

La Roche-Posay Cleansing Oil

• Why We Love It: This oil-to-foam cleanser is a great option for individuals with dry to extra dry skin, as well as sensitive skin types — it has been proven to be safe for babies as young as two weeks or even those undergoing chemotherapy. Dr. Castilla is also a fan, adding that it “can be used on both face and body, does have a slight foam which some people prefer, cleanses well but is also great for sensitive dry skin types, and doesn’t leave an oily residue behind.”
• Key Ingredients: La Roche-Posay prebiotic thermal water, niacinamide, shea butter, glycerin
• Size: 13.52 fl oz
• Best For: Dry to extra dry, sensitive skin
• Cruelty-Free: N
• Fragrance: N

Bioderma Cleansing Oil

• Why We Love It: Put down the makeup wipes! After dampening your skin, this oil cleanser turns into a foaming texture that can remove even the most stubborn smokey eyes. Safe for dry skin, atopic eczema, and dermatitis, it’s mild enough to be used by everyone—including your partner, who will definitely sneak some when you’re not looking.
• Key Ingredients: Vegetal biolipids, vitamin B3
• Size: 33.8 fl oz
• Best For: Suitable for all skin types and concerns
• Cruelty-Free: N
• Fragrance: N

Peach & Lily Cleansing Oil

• Why We Love It: This cleansing oil is perfect for those who like to double cleanse, as it doesn’t strip the skin and layers well with other cleansers. A little goes a long way since it’s a bit thicker than some of the other options on this list. You can even use it to remove waterproof eyeliner or mascara (takes about 30 seconds) and it doesn’t irritate or leave you with raccoon eyes.
• Key Ingredients: Ginger, pineapple, papaya, sunflower seed oil, grapeseed oil
• Size: 150 mL
• Best For: Dry skin, blackheads, dryness, pores, sensitivity
• Cruelty-Free: Y
• Fragrance: N

Elemis Cleansing Oil

• Why We Love It: This softening cleansing oil can easily be added to any existing skin care routine. It contains 90% natural oils, including winter rose and chia seed oil to support and balance the skin barrier. It isn’t heavy or greasy; upon use, it turns into a milky lather, leaving your skin supple and plump after rinsing it off.
• Key Ingredients: Winter rose oil, chia seed, pomegranate
• Size: 195 mL
• Best For: Suitable for all skin types and concerns
• Cruelty-Free: N
• Fragrance: Y

PCA Skin Cleansing Oil

• Why We Love It: On nights when you’re sporting a full beat, it can be exhausting just thinking about wiping it all off. Thankfully, this cleansing oil does a great job of breaking down your makeup quickly. Just massage a few pumps into your face, and watch as it all washes away—matte lipstick, brow pomade, and waterproof mascara don’t stand a chance.
• Key Ingredients: Vitamin E, grapeseed oil, sweet almond oil
• Size: 5 fl oz / 150 mL
• Best For: Suitable for all skin types
• Cruelty-Free: Y
• Fragrance: Y

Avène XeraCalm A.D Lipid-Replenishing Cleansing Oil

• Why We Love It: The National Eczema Association and Dr. Castilla have given this cleansing oil their stamp of approval, which is why we recommend it to users with dry, sensitive, or itchy skin. It includes the brand’s thermal spring water, renowned for its ability to soothe, soften, and calm the skin. “It’s unscented, very mildly foaming, rinses easily, and leaves skin very silky,” Dr. Castilla says. Here’s a pro tip: Add five pumps to running bathwater to lock in moisture and aid in restoring your skin barrier.
• Key Ingredients: Modulia, cer-mega, Avène thermal spring water
• Size: 13.5 fl oz
• Best For: All skin types, dry, itchy skin
• Cruelty-Free: Y
• Fragrance: N

Tatcha Camelia Cleansing Oil

• Why We Love It: There’s no worse feeling than coming home and sensing a layer of grime on your skin. Whether you live in a bustling city or spent hours in makeup, the quickest way to feel clean again is to use a reliable cleansing oil like this one, which transforms into a milky texture when mixed with water. Its power lies in Japanese camellia oil, a lightweight, nourishing botanical oil rich in vitamins and omegas. All of Tatcha’s products offer a luxurious, sensorial experience, which is why so many celebrities are obsessed with the brand.
• Key Ingredients: Japanese camellia oil, Hades-3, rice, green tea, algae
• Size: 150 ML
• Best For: Skin type: All skin types, dryness
• Cruelty-Free: Y
• Fragrance: Y

Shiseido Cleansing Oil

• Why We Love It: If you love the glazed donut look, you’re going to adore this cleansing oil. Simply pump the product and emulsify it in your hands; alternatively, you can apply it to a cotton pad, then massage it in small circles into your skin. Rinse it off and pat dry with a washcloth for brighter, bouncy skin. You can follow up with another cleanser for a double cleanse, but it’s not necessary as this one does an excellent job of removing everything.
• Key Ingredients: Grapeseed oil
• Size: 180 ML
• Best For: Suitable for all skin types and concerns
• Cruelty-Free: Y
• Fragrance: Y

Caudalie Cleansing Oil

• Why We Love It: French brand Caudalie is an insider favorite—and this cleansing oil, in particular, has earned top marks because it’s lightweight and safe for those with acne-prone skin. It contains a slew of nourishing oils as well, including castor, sweet almond, sunflower seed, and grape seed. Best yet, everything comes off instantly so there’s no weird film left on your skin afterward.
• Key Ingredients: Sweet almond oil, grape seed oil, sunflower oil, castor oil
• Size: 150 ML
• Best For: Dryness, dullness, uneven texture
• Cruelty-Free: Y
• Fragrance: Y

Kora Organics Gentle Cleansing Oil

• Why We Love It: If you’re seeking something capital-G gentle, this vegan option from Miranda Kerr’s Kora Organics is just what you need. Incorporate it into your nighttime routine to remove any buildup accumulated during the day. For those who don’t enjoy the feel of an oil, once you shake this one, it transforms into a creamy milk texture.
• Key Ingredients: Silver ear mushroom, babassu oil, sunflower seed oil
• Size: 150 ML
• Best For: All skin types, dryness, and dullness
• Cruelty-Free: Y
• Fragrance: N

DHC Cleansing Oil

• Why We Love It: Japanese beauty brand DHC never misses, so we expected nothing but the best from this cleansing oil. It’s fragrance-free and super calming, with olive oil as the main ingredient. Remember, for it to really work, emulsify it with water (we like to use it in the shower) and massage it into the skin for one minute. FYI, it also doubles as a makeup brush cleaner.
• Key Ingredients: Olive oil, rosemary leaf oil, vitamin E
• Size: 1 fl oz, 2.3 fl oz, 6.7 fl oz
• Best For: Suitable for all skin types and concerns
• Cruelty-Free: Y
• Fragrance: N

Anua Heartlead Pore Control Cleansing Oil

• Why We Love It: Come across this K-beauty product on your TikTok feed? It’s worth the hype, especially if you have oily, acne-prone skin. Not only does it not clog your pores, but it also contains anti-inflammatory, antibacterial ingredients like turmeric and heartland extract. But it’s not limited to oily skin; anyone can use it as it guarantees fresh, hydrated skin, thanks to conditioning jojoba, grapeseed, and olive oils.
• Key Ingredients: Olive oil, jojoba oil, turmeric extract, heartleaf extract, sunflower seed oil, grape seed oil
• Size: 200 mL
• Best For: Acne-prone skin
• Cruelty-Free: Y
• Fragrance: Y

Pai Light Work Rosehip Cleansing Oil

• Why We Love It: Pai’s cleansing oil is a great choice for all skin types, especially those with sensitivities. Here, olive and sunflower oils nourish the skin, preventing it from feeling stripped after the first cleanse, while rosehip promotes a glowing, radiant complexion; skin feels softer and calmer after each use. “Although it's oil-based, this cleanser won’t feel greasy; instead, it feels light and luxurious,” says board-certified dermatologist Anetta Reszko. “Plus, it’s gentle enough for sensitive skin and safe for use around the eye area.”
• Key Ingredients: Olive, sunflower, castor, jasmine, lime, orange, geranium, and basil oils, rosehip fruit extract, vitamin E, rosemary extract
• Size: 100 mL
• Best For: Suitable for all skin types and concerns
• Cruelty-Free: Y
• Fragrance: N

What is a cleansing oil?

Cleansing oil, as we mentioned earlier, contains oils that effectively remove dirt, debris, and makeup from the skin. These oils dissolve impurities on the skin’s surface, allowing them to be easily rinsed away. In general, oil cleansers, according to Dr. Castilla, are gentler on the skin barrier and less likely to strip natural oils compared to regular facial cleansers. The main ingredients to look out for are plant oils such as grapeseed, sunflower, and argan oils.

What are the origins of cleansing oil?

Per Dr. Libby, the origins of cleansing oil may have derived from Asian beauty skin care routines, which often employed a double-cleansing method consisting of an oil-based cleanser followed by a water-based cleanser.

How does it differ from other cleansers on the market?

Time for a science lesson: Traditional cleansers use surfactants, such as soap, to remove dirt and excess oil from the skin, along with moisturizing ingredients that deposit on the skin to prevent it from feeling tight and dry. These surfactant-based water cleansers work better on water-soluble particles. “Some cleansing oils also contain surfactants, but the main cleansing component is the oil itself. Oil cleansers tend to foam significantly less than regular face washes due to minimal surfactants,” says Dr. Castilla.

What ingredients and textures to look out for

The texture of cleansing oils can vary. “Some are lightweight and easily spreadable, while others are thicker and heavier and may require more effort to rinse off,” says Dr. Castilla. If possible, she suggests testing the consistency of the formulation before purchase. Fragrance-free options are ideal, as fragrances can be potentially irritating, especially for sensitive and dry skin types. “Try to look for a formulation with relatively few ingredients; less ingredients generally mean there are fewer potential irritants,” she adds. Also, look out for hydrating superstars like glycerin, niacinamide, and colloidal oatmeal that help nourish skin’st moisture barrier.

How to use cleansing oil

Cleansing oil is meant to be the first step in cleansing; apply it to dry skin as oil cleansers are especially efficient at removing makeup. Dr. Castilla generally recommends using a cleansing oil once per day, particularly at night, especially if you wear makeup.

Who is a cleansing oil best for?

“Cleansing oils can be used for essentially all skin types,” says Dr. Castilla. However, she notes that they are most beneficial for those with sensitive, dry, eczema, or mature skin types, as they can benefit from the extra hydration they impart. For oily or acne-prone skin types, she recommends using formulations that can be rinsed away with water without leaving an excessive oily residue.

Cleansing oil also works well on stubborn sunscreen, especially since many mineral formulations are water-resistant. “My pro tip is to use a cleansing oil, as this will effectively cleanse off the sunscreen. Then, if desiring a double cleanse, you can follow this step with a water-based cleanser,” says Dr. Libby.

Do dermatologists recommend oil cleansing?

According to Reszko, oil cleansers effectively remove impurities while preserving the skin barrier, making them ideal for dry skin. She explains that oil cleansers gently purify pores while helping balance the skin’s natural oil production across most skin types. They are particularly effective at lifting excess sebum and makeup, including waterproof products. Reszko advises for acne-prone skin to use non-comedogenic oil cleansers to avoid breakouts. For sensitive skin, opt for fragrance-free options with hydrating ingredients.

How often should you oil cleanse?

Reszko recommends using oil cleansers as the first step in a double cleansing routine in the evening. The frequency of oil cleansing depends on individual skin type and can range from daily use to as needed. “Those with dry or sensitive skin may benefit from daily oil cleansing, while people with oily or acne-prone skin might prefer using it 2-3 times per week to avoid overloading their skin,” she explains. Always adjust based on how your skin responds.

Do you have to follow a cleansing oil with a gel or foam cleanser?

Contrary to popular belief, Reszko says you don’t always need to follow an oil cleanser with a gel or foam—it depends on your skin type and condition. “Double cleansing—using a water-based cleanser after an oil cleanser—is often recommended for those with oily or acne-prone skin to ensure all impurities are thoroughly removed,” she explains. “For dry or sensitive skin, a single oil cleanse may be sufficient, as it effectively removes dirt and makeup without stripping the skin.”

Meet the Experts

• Dr. Tiffany J. Libby is a board-certified dermatologist and the Director of Mohs Micrographic & Dermatologic Surgery at Brown Dermatology in Rhode Island.
• Dr. Carmen Castilla is a New York City-based, board-certified dermatologist at New York Dermatology Group and clinical instructor at Mount Sinai Hospital.
• Dr. Anetta Reszko is a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City.