cleansing oil for face

For the first step cleanse with an oil-based cleanser. In chemistry “like dissolves like”, so the oil-based cleanser works to remove oil based makeup, oil based impurities such as sebum, SPF and pollution.

cleansing oil for face

Cleansing Oil: the “start here” step that makes everything else work

If your skincare routine feels like it’s doing a lot… but not quite landing, the first thing I’d look at isn’t your serum. It’s your cleanse.

A good cleansing oil is one of those deceptively simple steps that changes the whole vibe of your skin. Makeup sits better. Sunscreen comes off properly. Your face feels clean without that tight, squeaky feeling that makes you want to drown yourself in moisturiser.

And yes, if you’ve got oily or acne-prone skin, you can still use oil. That sounds like a contradiction, right? But that’s also the point. Oil breaks down oil. It’s chemistry with a soft, glowy finish.

Let me explain, in normal-person terms.

So what does a cleansing oil do, exactly?

A facial oil cleanser works by dissolving the stuff that clings to your skin. Think:

  • SPF (especially water-resistant formulas)
  • Makeup, including mascara and long-wear foundation
  • Sebum (your skin’s own oil)
  • That “city layer” you pick up during the day: dust, pollution, grime

Water-based cleansers are great, but they can struggle to fully lift sunscreen and makeup on their own. That’s why a lot of people end up scrubbing. Or cleansing twice with the same foaming cleanser. Or using wipes (no judgement, we’ve all done it).

Oil cleansing is the calmer route. It melts things down first, then rinses clean when it emulsifies with water. No wrestling match with your skin.

Balm vs oil: which one should you choose?

Here’s the thing. “Oil cleansing” can mean a liquid oil or a balm. Both work. The best choice is the one you’ll actually use consistently.

Liquid oil

A liquid oil face cleanser is fast, smooth, and easy to massage in. It’s brilliant if you want slip and you like a longer, relaxing cleanse (the kind that turns into a mini face massage while you mentally unpack your day).

Balm cleanser

A balm starts solid and melts into an oil as you warm it up. It’s tidy, travel-friendly, and feels a bit more “spa night at home”. Also, balms can be a nice entry point if you’re nervous about oil because the texture feels controlled.

If you’re still on the fence, you can’t go wrong starting with a balm and then moving to a liquid oil later. Or do what most skincare lovers do: keep both, because moods change.

How to do oil face cleansing (without overthinking it)

Oil cleansing is simple, but the details matter. The goal is to melt, lift, emulsify, rinse. That’s it.

  1. Start with dry hands and a dry face.
  2. Massage your cleansing oil in for 30 to 60 seconds.
  3. Add a little water and keep massaging. It should turn milky (that’s emulsifying).
  4. Rinse well.
  5. Follow with your water-based cleanser (your “second cleanse”).

That second cleanse is the difference between “soft and clean” and “why do I feel a film?”. Not everyone needs a heavy foaming cleanser either. A gentle gel works fine for most people.

And yes, you can use this even if you don’t wear makeup. SPF alone is reason enough.

“But I’ve got oily skin…” and other very fair worries

Honestly, the fear makes sense. If you’re shiny by lunchtime, why would you add more oil?

But your skin’s oil is not the same as cleansing oil. When you use an oil face cleansing product that emulsifies properly, it rinses away with water, taking excess sebum and sunscreen with it. Many people find their skin actually feels more balanced because they stop stripping it with harsh cleansers.

If you’re prone to blackheads

Look for options that cleanse thoroughly but don’t feel heavy. Massage time helps here, too. Blackheads are basically compacted oil and dead skin. A consistent oil cleanse can support the “soften and lift” process over time.

If you’re sensitive

Gentle formulas and soothing extracts matter. Your technique matters too. Don’t scrub. Don’t use scorching hot water. Keep it calm.

If you’re dry or dehydrated

A balm can feel particularly comforting. You’ll still do a second cleanse, but you can keep that second cleanse mild and non-stripping.

Shop oil cleansers at Seoul of Tokyo (curated, authentic, delivered in SA)

If you want the “browseable” version: here’s the full oil cleansers collection. If you want the guided tour, keep reading.

I’m going to call out specific options and what they’re good for, without pretending there’s one magic product for everyone. Skin’s too moody for that.

The Banila Co. Clean It Zero family (balm icons for a reason)

Banila’s balms are famous for a reason: they melt makeup and SPF like it’s nothing, and they’re easy to use consistently. If you want one of those “why didn’t I do this sooner?” steps, this range can deliver that feeling.

If you only buy one thing from this page? A Banila balm is a sensible bet. Not the only bet, but a sensible one.

Liquid cleansing oils: fast, thorough, and oddly satisfying

If you prefer the glide of a liquid oil, or you want something that rinses very clean, these are worth a look.

Targeted picks for blackheads and texture (because that’s the real villain)

You know what? Blackheads are stubborn. They don’t respond well to panic-cleansing or harsh scrubs. They respond to consistency.

A few picks that make sense if clogged pores are your ongoing project:

If you’re dealing with blackheads, here’s a small but powerful tweak: spend your massage time where you clog (nose, chin, jaw). Be gentle, but be consistent.

Makeup-melting balms (for full glam, SPF, and long days)

If you wear heavier makeup, or you reapply sunscreen properly (gold star behaviour), you’ll appreciate balms that melt everything down without stinging.

What to pair after oil cleansing (the routine glue)

Oil cleansing is step one. But your routine doesn’t end at the sink, does it?

Second cleanse

Follow your oil cleansing step with a gentle water-based cleanser. If you’re acne-prone, choose a cleanser that cleans well but doesn’t leave you squeaky. If you’re dry, avoid aggressive foam.

Moisturiser

Once your skin is clean, you’ll get more out of your moisturiser. If your barrier is feeling fragile, go for something nourishing and steady.

A product like Beauty of Joseon Dynasty Cream can slot in nicely when you want a moisturiser step that feels comforting, especially after active-heavy routines.

And if you’re using a lighter routine but still want that “sealed in” comfort, Mixsoon Bean Cream is a clean pairing idea for people who like minimal, layered hydration.

SPF

If you’re doing oil cleansing because you wear sunscreen (as you should), the routine loop closes here. Cleanse well at night, protect well in the day. Simple, but it works.

Common oil cleansing slip-ups (and how to fix them)

A few tiny changes can stop most “oil cleansing didn’t work for me” stories.

  • Using it on a wet face
    Start dry. Water first can stop the oil from grabbing onto makeup and SPF properly.
  • Not emulsifying
    Add water and massage until it turns milky. That’s the rinse-clean moment.
  • Skipping the second cleanse
    Even if your oil face cleansing product rinses well, the second cleanse is your safety net.
  • Rushing the massage
    30 seconds is better than 10. A minute is even better when you’re congested.
  • Going too hard around the eyes
    Be gentle. Let the product do the work.

So… what’s the best cleansing oil?

I’ll be honest: “best” depends on your skin, your routine, and your tolerance for texture and scent.

But if you want a shortcut, think of it like this:

And if you’re hunting outside of this page for barrier-focused support, some people also compare options when searching for the best cleansing oil alongside ceramide-heavy routines. That “cleanse + barrier rebuild” pairing can be a game changer if your skin is feeling touchy.

FAQs (because someone’s definitely wondering)

Will oil cleansing cause breakouts?

It shouldn’t, if you: emulsify, rinse, and follow with a second cleanse. Breakouts usually come from residue, over-rubbing, or using a routine that’s too heavy overall.

Can I oil cleanse if I don’t wear makeup?

Yes. Sunscreen, sebum, and daily grime still build up. A cleansing oil is still useful.

How often should I do it?

Most people do it nightly. Morning is optional and depends on your skin. If you’re oily, a gentle morning cleanse can work. If you’re dry, you might just rinse and moisturise.

Is balm better than liquid oil?

Not “better”. Different feel, same job. Balm is tidy and comforting. Oil is quick and glides easily. Choose what you’ll use.

Ready to pick yours?

If you want to browse everything in one place, the full cleansing oil collection is right here.

Start simple. Stay consistent. And give it a week or two before you judge it. Oil cleansing isn’t flashy, but it’s the kind of routine step that quietly makes the rest of your skincare behave.