Cleansing Oils: An Introduction

Theyre Great for All Skin Types

Before you start thinking, I have oily skin! Why on earth would I want to add more oil to my routine? Or, I have dry skin that tightens up after every wash!dont fret. Unlike traditional cleansers, which can strip the skin of its naturally occurring oils, cleansing oils dissolve impurities on the skin without drying it out, making them a great alternative for those with dry, sensitive skin, or aging skin. (For those with particularly finicky skin, we love Sunday Rileys Blue Moon Tranquility Cleansing Balm and One Love Organics Elizabeth Dehn for One Love Organics Vitamin B Enzyme Cleansing Oil + Makeup Remover.) And because dryness can also trigger an overproduction of sebum (which then leads to shine and breakouts), oil-based formulas like RENs Rosa Centifolia No.1 Purity Cleansing Balm are a great option for those battling acne.

Theyre Easy to Use

To use most cleansing oils and balms, massage a pump or penny-size amount into dry skin with your hands. (Some formulas like Shiseido Perfect Cleansing Oil, can be used on wet or dry skin.) After massaging for a minute, wet your fingertipsas the water meets the oils, the formula will turn into a light, milky emulsion during which the good oils in the cleanser will attach themselves to the bad oils on your skin. To gently remove the formula, wet a warm washcloth or muslin cloth and massage in circular motion. A final rinse with water will remove any lingering product.

Theyre Also the First Step of the Popular Double Cleanse

Cleansing oils are also the first step of a technique called double cleansing, which was initially popularized in Japanese and Korean beauty routines. The method goes like this: First, remove makeup and dirt with an oil cleanser. Next, follow with a gentle wash (like Avenes Foaming Cleanser or Caudalies Cleansing Foam) to cleanse the skin itself. The result? A clean, spotless complexion thats perfectly prepped for the rest of your skincare regimen.

Ready to start shopping? Check out the list to the right for some our favorite cleansing oils and balms.