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    1. Beauty
    2. Skincare

    The Best Cleansing Oils Melt Away Dirt and Makeup with Ease

    Your ticket to dewy, glass-like skin.

    Siena Gagliano#039;s avatar
    By Siena Gagliano
    Last updated 20 January 2026 In Buying Guides

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    the best cleansing oils remove melt makeup
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    I'll admit, I once thought cleansing balms and oils were a step too extra. Why overcomplicate things when I could just swipe on a makeup remover, follow with a face wash, and call it a night? But, oh, how wrong I was. The best cleansing oils can transform your skincare routine. These powerhouse cleansers attract and break down oil—be it makeup, sunscreen, or excess sebum—leaving my skin clean, balanced, and moisturized without that stripped, tight feeling.

    "Cleansing oils are especially great for makeup wearers," says board-certified dermatologist Karan Lal, MD, who highlights their ability to dissolve trapped oils without compromising your skin barrier. Even if you have acne or oily skin, board-certified dermatologist Mona Gohara, MD, assures that a well-formulated cleansing oil can actually help balance your natural oils, giving you a healthy, radiant skin barrier.

    Want to go next level? Cleansing oils and balms are also the cornerstone of double-cleansing, a Korean skincare technique that, like all of K-beauty, prioritizes the health of your skin. Step one: Use an oil cleanser to lift makeup, sunscreen, and oil-based gunk. Step two: Follow with a water-based cleanser to nix leftover grime. "It's all about starting with a clean slate for that dewy, soft skin," says esthetician and K-beauty expert Charlotte Cho. While the practice is not essential for everyone or for every cleansing oil, double-cleansing is a great option for makeup wearers and those with oily skin. Just be sure to use the technique at night only—doing so in the morning, when your skin is still relatively clean from the evening before, can dry out your skin.

    After rigorously testing dozens of cleansing oils, a few beauty experts and I handpicked the true game-changers. These 12 oils cleanse away the most stubborn products, prioritize high-quality ingredients that support your skin barrier, and ultimately leave me with glowing, supple skin. Whether you're new to cleansing oils, a double-cleanse devotee, or a makeup wearer in general, you'll wonder how you ever washed your face without them.

    The Best Cleansing Oils

    • Best Overall Cleansing Oil: Then I Met You Living Cleansing Balm Makeup Remover
    • Best Cleansing Oil for Glass Skin: Sulwhasoo Gentle Cleansing Oil Makeup Remover
    • Best Cleansing Oil for Waterproof Makeup: Eve Lom Cleansing Oil Capsules
    • Best Cleansing Oil for Sensitive Skin: Avène Xeracalm A.D Lipid-Replenishing Cleansing Oil
    • Best Cleansing Oil for Dry Skin: Elemis Pro-Collagen Makeup Melting Cleansing Balm

    The Best Cleansing Oils, By The Numbers

    Swipe to scroll horizontally

    Product Name

    Winning Category

    Price

    Who It's For

    Key Oil(s)

    Then I Met You Living Cleansing Balm Makeup Remover

    Best Overall

    $39

    All skin types, especially makeup-wearers

    Grapeseed oil, Sea Buckthorn Berry Oil

    Sulwhasoo Gentle Cleansing Oil Makeup Remover

    Best for Glass Skin

    $40

    All skin types

    Korean Herbal Oil Complex

    Eve Lom Cleansing Oil Capsules

    Best for Waterproof Makeup

    $32, $80

    All skin types, particularly mature

    Grapeseed Oil, Camelina Seed Oil, Chamomile Oil

    Avène Xeracalm A.D Lipid-Replenishing Cleansing Oil

    Best for Sensitive Skin

    $34

    All skin types, especially sensitive and hyper-reactive

    Evening Primrose Oil, Jojoba Seed Oil

    Elemis Pro-Collagen Makeup Melting Cleansing Balm

    Best for Dry Skin

    $42

    All skin types

    Grapeseed Oil, Borage Seed Oil

    Shop The Best Cleansing Oils

    Living Cleansing Balm Makeup Remover

    Best Overall Cleansing Oil
    Then I Met You
    Living Cleansing Balm Makeup Remover
    $39
    SHOP NOW

    The formulation behind this cleansing balm is basically the recipe for smooth, soft-as-hell skin. It's filled with a slew of oils that not only provide major moisture but also come along with impressive ingredient profiles. At the top of its list sits grapeseed oil—a lightweight emollient that is packed with skin-protecting antioxidants, barrier-supporting linolenic acid, and collagen-building amino acids. It also contains sea buckthorn berry oil, an omega-7-rich oil that works at the cellular level to support healthy skin barrier function. When I apply this rich balm, it immediately emulsifies into a luxe oil that breaks down my SPF, makeup, and a day's worth of grime.

    Key Ingredients: Grapeseed oil, sea buckthorn berry oil (moisturizes and supports skin barrier); Vitamin E (antioxidant protection and soothing agent)

    Who It’s For: All skin types, especially makeup-wearers

    Size: 3.17 fl. oz., 0.67 fl. oz.

    What I Love: Doesn't leave any residue behind despite being a rich formulation; Jam-packed with barrier-supporting ingredients

    What I Don’t: If you don't use the included scoop, going in with your fingers can introduce bacteria to the product

    Review for MC: "On nights out, I wear long-lasting waterproof makeup that's a challenge to remove. This cleansing oil balm is the only product that's effectively done the job with zero redness or irritation—and I don't say that lightly. I also love that it comes in a balm formula, which is way less messy than its liquid counterparts." — Siena Gagliano, Beauty Editor

    Siena Gagliano applies the Then I Met You Living Cleansing Balm Makeup Remover on top of lipstick, cream eyeshadow, and waterproof liquid eyeliner before and after

    Siena Gagliano applies the Then I Met You Living Cleansing Balm Makeup Remover on top of lipstick, cream eyeshadow, and waterproof liquid eyeliner.

    (Image credit: Courtesy of Siena Gagliano)

    Gentle Cleansing Oil Makeup Remover

    Best Cleansing Oil for Glass Skin
    Sulwhasoo
    Gentle Cleansing Oil Makeup Remover
    $40
    SHOP NOW

    This cleansing oil has been my go-to lately for those light makeup and SPF days. Just a splash of water transforms it into a silky emulsion that rinses clean, leaving my skin refreshed and never stripped. The secret? Sulwhasoo's signature Hydra Capture Complex—a blend of traditional Korean herbal oils that melt away makeup, deeply cleanse, and lock in moisture. And with a hint of squalane to boost your skin's barrier and add a healthy glow, it's the ultimate recipe for achieving glass skin. Think dewy and luminous—the hallmark of K-beauty.

    Key Ingredients: Citrus unshiu peel extract (brightens skin and protects with antioxidants); Nelumbo nucifera seed extract (antibacterial and protects with antioxidants); Squalane (moisturizes)

    Who It’s For: All skin types

    Size: 6.76 fl. oz., 1.7 fl. oz.

    What I Love: Emulsifies quickly, turning into a milky cleanser; Gentle enough to use on the eye area

    What I Don’t: Contains a fragrance that is a very strong herbal scent

    Review for MC: "Daily, I go for lighter makeup and, of course, sunscreen, and this gentle cleansing oil is perfect for removing it all. Just keep in mind, it may need a second cleanse to tackle waterproof products like eyeliner." — Siena Gagliano, Beauty Editor

    Siena Gagliano applies the Sulwhasoo Gentle Cleansing Oil Makeup Remover on top of lipstick, cream eyeshadow, and waterproof liquid eyeliner before and after

    Siena Gagliano applies the Sulwhasoo Gentle Cleansing Oil Makeup Remover on top of lipstick, cream eyeshadow, and waterproof liquid eyeliner.

    (Image credit: Courtesy of Siena Gagliano)

    Cleansing Oil Capsules

    Best Cleansing Oil for Waterproof Makeup
    EVE LOM
    Cleansing Oil Capsules
    $32
    SHOP NOW

    One of my biggest gripes with cleansing oils? The mess. Whether I'm traveling or just doing my nightly routine, they can get everywhere. Enter: these genius oil capsules. Compact, mess-free, and super travel-friendly, they've completely changed the game. But don't think they're only for jet-setters—they're also one of the best formulas I've tried for removing waterproof makeup. With grapeseed, camelina seed, and chamomile oils packed with fatty acids, anti-inflammatory benefits, and soothing properties, this cleanser is an ideal choice for dry or sensitive skin.

    Key Ingredients: Grapeseed oil, camelina seed oil, chamomile oil (moisturizes and supports skin barrier); Vitamin E (protects from environmental aggressors)

    Who It’s For: All skin types, particularly mature

    Size: 50 count, 14 count

    What I Love: Travel-friendly; Mess-free; Helps calm redness

    What I Don’t: The smell when you open the container is unique and some testers expressed their dislike

    Review for MC: "This capsule formula is probably the most underrated cleansing oil out there. It deserves way more hype considering it tackled my almost impossible-to-remove waterproof eyeliner without any irritation or redness whatsoever." — Siena Gagliano, Beauty Editor

    Siena Gagliano applies the Eve Lom Cleansing Oil Capsules on top of lipstick, cream eyeshadow, and waterproof liquid eyeliner before and after

    Siena Gagliano applies the Eve Lom Cleansing Oil Capsules on top of lipstick, cream eyeshadow, and waterproof liquid eyeliner.

    (Image credit: Courtesy of Siena Gagliano)

    Avamp;egrave;ne Xeracalm A.d Lipid-Replenishing Cleansing Oil (25.3 Oz.)

    Best Cleansing Oil for Sensitive Skin
    Avène
    Xeracalm A.d Lipid-Replenishing Cleansing Oil
    $34
    SHOP NOW

    There's a reason this French beauty staple is beloved by beauty editors, dermatologists, and, ahem, yours truly. Dr. Lal even calls it his absolute favorite, praising its prebiotics for restoring the skin barrier, non-comedogenic oils, and suitability for sensitive skin. Echoing the latter, this cleansing oil has the National Eczema Association seal, meaning that even those with the most hyper-reactive skin types can feel confident using the formulation. But here's the standout: Dr. Gohara notes that this cleansing oil isn't just for your face—it's formulated for use on your body and scalp, helping to strengthen your skin barrier from head to toe.

    Key Ingredients: Avène thermal spring water (soothes); Prebiotics (boosts skin's natural defenses); Glycerin (hydrates)

    Who It’s For: All skin types, especially sensitive and hyper-reactive

    Size: 25.3 fl. oz.

    What I Love: Safe for all skin types and even babies; Meant to be used all over your body; Fragrance-free; Certified by the National Eczema Association

    What I Don’t: Didn't completely get rid of waterproof makeup on the first cleanse

    Review for MC: "This cleansing oil may not be the go-to for waterproof makeup, but I find it absolutely wonderful to use on lighter makeup days and all over my body. It gives the most luxurious experience when I apply it on my scalp, especially during the winter when my skin is craving moisture." — Siena Gagliano, Beauty Editor

    Siena Gagliano applies the Avamp;egrave;ne Xeracalm A.d Lipid-Replenishing Cleansing Oil on top of lipstick, cream eyeshadow, and waterproof liquid eyeliner before and after

    Siena Gagliano applies the Avène Xeracalm A.d Lipid-Replenishing Cleansing Oil on top of lipstick, cream eyeshadow, and waterproof liquid eyeliner.

    (Image credit: Courtesy of Siena Gagliano)

    Pro-Collagen Makeup Melting Cleansing Balm

    Best Cleansing Oil for Dry Skin
    Elemis
    Pro-Collagen Makeup Melting Cleansing Balm
    $42
    SHOP NOW

    Looking for a cleanser to break through l-a-y-e-r-s of heavy makeup, a full day's sweat and grime, or simply just give your skin a much-needed deep clean? Meet your new holy grail: the cult-favorite cleansing balm from Elemis. Just a dime-size scoop of this rich, velvety formula melts into an oil as you massage it, effortlessly breaking down makeup and leaving your skin glowing, soft, and plump. The key players? Grapeseed oil, a lightweight emollient packed with antioxidants, and borage seed oil, which boasts one of the highest omega-6 fatty acid contents among seed oils. Translation: stronger, smoother skin with locked-in moisture.

    Key Ingredients: Grapeseed oil (moisturizes and supports skin barrier); Borage seed oil (strengthens, smoothes, and moisturizes)

    Who It’s For: All skin types

    Size: 3.5 fl. oz., 0.7 fl. oz.

    What I Love: A little goes a long way; Vetted by beauty industry experts

    What I Don’t: Does not come with a spatula, so you can reintroduce bacteria to the container if you don't have clean hands

    Review for MC: "I can attest, this balm cleanser is as good as everyone says. The rich texture feels like I'm giving myself a spa-worthy facial at home, and the way my skin feels after I rinse it off can only be described as heavenly. Cheesy? Yes. But true? Also, yes." — Siena Gagliano, Beauty Editor

    Siena Gagliano applies the Elemis Pro-Collagen Makeup Melting Cleansing Balm on top of lipstick, cream eyeshadow, and waterproof liquid eyeliner before and after

    Siena Gagliano applies the Elemis Pro-Collagen Makeup Melting Cleansing Balm on top of lipstick, cream eyeshadow, and waterproof liquid eyeliner.

    (Image credit: Courtesy of Siena Gagliano)

    The Face Shop Rice Water Bright Light Facial Cleansing Oil, Daily Makeup Remover, Oil Cleanser, Vegan, Korean Skin Care With Jojoba Oil, Face Pore Cleanser, 150ml

    Best Cleansing Oil on Amazon
    The Face Shop
    Rice Water Bright Light Facial Cleansing Oil
    $15$14
    SHOP NOW

    Don't let the budget-friendly price tag fool you—this Amazon bestseller delivers serious results. It features conditioning jojoba oil alongside rice bran and water, a centuries-old staple in Asian skincare, known for its skin-brightening and moisturizing properties. Together, these ingredients work to gently cleanse your skin while leaving it soft, moisturized, and perfectly primed for the rest of your routine. The result? Fresh, clean skin that feels as healthy as it looks—no splurging necessary.

    Key Ingredients: Jojoba oil (moisturizes); Rice water and bran (brightens skin and moisturizes)

    Who It’s For: All skin types

    Size: 5 fl. oz.

    What I Love: Almost 13,000 five-star reviews; Lightweight consistency

    What I Don’t: Contains fragrance, which may irritate sensitive skin or noses

    Review for MC: "For $15 and two-day Prime shipping, I was shocked by the efficacy of The Face Shop cleansing oil. It definitely comes with a true oil texture, but it feels extremely lightweight on your skin (just note that this means it's pretty runny). If you're sensitive to fragrance, you may want to avoid it, but I find the scent lovely and non-irritating." — Siena Gagliano, Beauty Editor

    Siena Gagliano applies The Face Shop Rice Water Bright Light Facial Cleansing Oil on top of lipstick, cream eyeshadow, and waterproof liquid eyeliner before and after

    Siena Gagliano applies The Face Shop Rice Water Bright Light Facial Cleansing Oil on top of lipstick, cream eyeshadow, and waterproof liquid eyeliner.

    (Image credit: Siena Gagliano)

    The Camellia Oil 2-In-1 Makeup Remover amp;amp; Cleanser

    Best Cleansing Oil for Acne-Prone Skin
    Tatcha
    The Camellia Cleansing Oil
    $50
    SHOP NOW

    I can't get enough of the magic that is Tatcha. Hailing from Kyoto, Japan, this brand's formulations are as luxe as its packaging—case in point: The Camellia Cleansing Oil. Dr. Lal gives it a stamp of approval, too, highlighting its blend of non-comedogenic oils that won't clog your pores. The star ingredients include Japanese camellia, packed with vitamins and omegas, and rice bran, an excellent skin brightener and moisturizer. Plus, the green tea and algae present in Tatcha's proprietary complex deliver soothing, anti-aging benefits for that extra glow.

    Key Ingredients: Camellia oil (protects with antioxidants); Rice bran (brightens and moisturizes)

    Who It’s For: All skin types

    Size: 5 fl. oz.

    What I Love: Emulsifies into a milky texture that's easy to rinse; Luxurious packaging; Heavy in antioxidants

    What I Don’t: May cause irritation if you're fragrance-sensitive

    Customer Review: "Don’t even think about it just get it. She’s incredible. Takes off all of your makeup on the first try, yes, even stubborn mascara, trust. And it doesn’t leave any residue behind on your skin. If I could bathe in this I would. It’s worth every penny." — Sephora

    Pore Cleansing Oil - Aha

    Best Exfoliating Cleansing Oil
    Hanskin
    Pore Cleansing Oil
    $27
    SHOP NOW

    This K-beauty cleanser boasts a true oil-based texture that melts away makeup and grime, locks in moisture, and—here's the kicker—gently exfoliates without stripping your skin. Packed with glycerin, ceramides, and amino acids—ingredients that mimic your skin—this formula is a barrier-strengthening powerhouse. Hanskin offers this cleansing oil in a BHA formula for oilier skin and a PHA one for sensitive types, but my go-to is the AHA version. Its blend of chemical exfoliants—lactic and glycolic acids—gently lifts away dead skin cells and improves texture, blackheads, and discoloration.

    Key Ingredients: Lactic acid, glycolic acid (exfoliates); Sunflower seed oil (moisturizes and protects with antioxidants); Jojoba oil (moisturizes and improves skin texture; Sodium hyaluronate (hydrates)

    Who It’s For: Dry, combination, or acne-prone skin types with clogged pores or uneven texture

    Size: 10.14 fl. oz.

    What I Love: Different exfoliating formulations based on skin type; A ton of product for the price; Contains loads of skin-identical ingredients

    What I Don’t: A true oil texture, so it may be messy

    Customer Review: "This cleansing oil removes everything—and I mean it. Waterproof mascara and even lip stains...on days when I see my pores getting clogged around my nose, I just use this cleansing oil and massage it on my nose for about 30 seconds before rinsing. My nose is super smooth and no longer bumpy afterward. I used to use face scrubs to exfoliate my face but I found that AHA is super gentle on my sensitive skin and does not irritate it or make my skin red." — Ulta

    Lipikar Ap+ Gentle Foaming Cleansing Oil - 13.52 Oz

    Best Drugstore Cleansing Oil
    La Roche-Posay
    Lipikar Ap+ Gentle Foaming Cleansing Oil
    $22
    SHOP NOW

    Ask any dermatologist for their top cleansing oil picks, and La Roche-Posay's is likely to make the cut. Dr. Lal loves it for its brightening niacinamide, while board-certified dermatologist Azadeh Shirazi, M.D.—or Dr. Azi, as her patients know her—swears by its emollient properties. "This is a favorite option for dry or sensitive skin as it’s formulated with glycerin, niacinamide, and shea butter to restore the moisture barrier," she says, adding that she's a fan of how it foams up when mixed with water.

    Key Ingredients: Thermal water (soothes); Niacinamide (brightens); Shea butter (moisturizes); Glycerin (hydrates)

    Who It’s For: All skin types, especially sensitive and hyper-reactive

    Size: 13.52 fl. oz.

    What I Love: Fragrance-free; Certified by the National Eczema Association; Great value for the price; Available at most drugstores

    What I Don’t: Due to its foaming nature, you may need a heavier moisturizer after use

    Customer Review: "I am 39 and have painfully suffered from highly sensitive and hormonal acne skin. I have tried just about everything (medical, drug store, high-end) with very little success. I use this as step one in my double cleanser. I use the LRP hydrating gentle cleanser as my second cleanser. I use the LRP Triple Repair Moisturizing Cream after. This has almost completely cleared my skin. I went out in public for the first time in years with nothing but moisturizer and sunscreen on and wasn't embarrassed to show my face." — Ulta

    Pai Skincare Light Workamp;trade; Cleansing Oil 100ml

    Best Clean Cleansing Oil
    Pai
    Light Work Cleansing Oil
    $54
    SHOP NOW

    Rosehip oil, known for its antioxidant properties, is the star ingredient in this gentle cleanser. Ideal for anyone prone to redness, this simple yet extremely effective formula maintains a calm, even skin barrier while delivering a brightening boost. But the selling point is its 100 percent natural formula that's free of any questionable ingredients, making it a cleansing oil you can trust to do the job right.

    Key Ingredients: Grapeseed oil (moisturizes and supports skin barrier); Rosehip oil (calms and soothes); Squalene (emollient)

    Who It’s For: All skin types, particularly redness-prone

    Size: 3.3 fl. oz., 0.9 fl. oz.

    What I Love: 100 percent natural formula; Extremely calming; Safe for the delicate eye area

    What I Don’t: Contains less product for the price than most competitors

    Customer Review: "I have rosacea and this is very gentle but very very effective. I really love this. Takes makeup off very well. Effective and gentle on eyes to remove mascara. Smells nice but not too strong. I'm chemically sensitive so I notice fake smells or overpowering essential oils." — Dermstore

    Silk Rice Makeup-Removing Cleansing Oil

    Best Oil for Double-Cleansing
    Damdam
    Silk Rice Makeup-Removing Cleansing Oil
    $46
    SHOP NOW

    As an avid follower of the double cleanse method, I've tried my fair share of cleansers—some hit the mark, others not so much. But this particular option is my go-to when I need to remove a full face of makeup. Damdam blends two lightweight oils—rice bran and sunflower seed—that moisturize my skin without feeling greasy, while antioxidant-rich vitamin E gives it extra protection from environmental aggressors. The best part? I can easily wipe off all my eye makeup without any stinging or irritation—even if a bit accidentally gets in my eyes.

    Key Ingredients: Rice bran oil (brightens and moisturizes); Sunflower seed oil (protects skin barrier and moisturizes)

    Who It’s For: All skin types, especially if you double cleanse

    Size: 5.07 fl. oz.

    What I Love: Clean, vegan formula; Fragrance-free; Safe around the delicate eye area

    What I Don’t: Because the formula is so lightweight, it runs and can create a bit of a mess

    Customer Review: "Amazing. I've used so many oil cleansers, but nothing compares to this. It melts makeup better than anything else. Even waterproof mascara is ready to rinse off within 30 seconds. Best of all, it rinses clean and leaves my skin feeling soft and comfortable." — Sephora

    Perfect Cleansing Oil W/ Grape Seed Oil

    Best Lightweight Cleansing Oil
    Shiseido
    Perfect Cleansing Oil
    $39
    SHOP NOW

    Shiseido has solidified itself as one of the leading Japanese skincare companies thanks to its high product quality standards. This cleansing oil is no exception, and I reach for this formulation whenever I want that glass, bouncy skin look. "This is one of my favorite cleansing oils as it is formulated with high-quality refined ingredients that don’t leave the skin greasy," says Dr. Azi. She adds that it's lightweight, yet still packs a punch when removing makeup and SPF. "It's a great option for all skin types to be used alone or as part of a double cleanse."

    Key Ingredients: Grapeseed oil (moisturizes and supports skin barrier); Glycerin (hydrates); Vitamin E (protects from environmental aggressors)

    Who It’s For: All skin types

    Size: 6 fl. oz.

    What I Love: Won't leave any greasy residue; High-quality, refined ingredients; Can be used solo or as part of a double cleanse

    What I Don’t: It's easy to dispense too much product due to the large nozzle packaging

    Customer Review: "With just two pumps it easily removes all makeup including mascara. Has a delicate, unobtrusive aroma. And most importantly, it is washed off with warm water without the feeling of a film on the face and eyes, which happened with other oils." — Sephora

    What is a Cleansing Oil?

    Cleansing oils are gentle yet effective face washes that dissolve makeup, dirt, sebum, and sunscreen without stripping your skin's natural moisture. Dr. Lal explains that they work on the principle of "like dissolves like," using oils to lift impurities without drying out your skin. Dr. Azi adds that these cleansers typically combine oils and emulsifiers to break down oil-based debris while preserving your skin barrier. When water is added, the oil transforms into a milky texture, allowing surfactants—ingredients that help oils rinse away—to lift off grime, makeup, and excess sebum.

    Cleansing oils are also key to double cleansing, a popular two-step K-beauty routine. Charlotte Cho describes it as "an essential skincare step," starting with an oil-based cleanser to break down oil-based products like makeup and SPF, followed by a water-based cleanser to remove leftover residue. While not everyone needs to double cleanse, this method is a great option for makeup wearers.

    Do I Need to Double-Cleanse if I Don’t Wear Makeup?

    Generally speaking, all skin types can benefit from a cleansing oil, even if you don't wear makeup—provided you're choosing the right ingredients for your goals and concerns (more on that below). Though they're definitely effective for makeup wearers, because they dissolve oil-based makeup products easily, cleansing oils are also ideal for dry and sensitive skin, thanks to their moisturizing properties. Just note: For a cleansing oil to work, massage it onto dry skin for about 60 seconds. This gives it enough time to properly bond with and break down the oil-based debris and product.

    Do Oil Cleansers Clog Pores?

    It might seem counterintuitive to add more oil to your face in an effort to get rid of the oil already there. However, oily, congested skin can actually benefit. As Dr. Gohara explains, cleansing oils "help balance natural oils without over-drying." However, to be on the safe side and avoid any chance of clogged pores, it's best to steer clear of heavier oils like mineral, coconut, and olive oils in skincare.

    Unlike harsh cleansers that disrupt your skin's acid mantle—i.e., the first line of defense against pollutants and free radicals—cleansing oils don't mess with this barrier, helping to reduce the risk of irritation, breakouts, and sensitivity. The key is to choose the right oils and actives that address your skin concerns.

    Can Cleansing Oils Cause Fungal Acne?

    Short answer: No, cleansing oils aren't a cause of fungal acne. For most people, they're a gentle, effective way to remove makeup and sunscreen without disrupting the skin barrier.

    The nuance comes from how fungal acne behaves and who it affects. Fungal acne affects a relatively small subset of people and is more closely tied to genetics, heat, sweat, and factors such as recent antibiotic use than to any single cleanser. The yeast involved can interact with certain fatty acids that naturally occur in many oils, which explains why the ingredient conversation sometimes comes up.

    That said, fatty acids are also fundamental to the skin barrier and appear in countless moisturizers and other beauty products. In other words, if fatty acids were broadly "bad," most of these moisturizers wouldn't exist—nor would they be dermatologist-recommended. What matters is context, the type of ingredients, how it's formulated, and whether it's left on the skin. Because cleansing oils emulsify and rinse clean, they don't behave like leave-on products and are generally well tolerated when used as intended.

    If you're especially reactive, ensure you rinse well with your second face wash in your double cleanse. And if you really want to avoid them altogether, opt for a micellar water double cleanse.

    What to Look for in a Cleansing Oil?

    Ingredients

    Dr. Lal recommends oils like sunflower seed, grapeseed, almond, and marula oil for cleansing. Dr. Gohara and Dr. Azi co-sign the grapeseed oil, adding that squalane, jojoba, rosehip, argan, and camellia also make excellent choices. On the flip side, it's best to avoid heavier oils like mineral, coconut, and olive oils, as well as products with heavy fragrances or essential oils, as these may lead to irritation.

    In addition to oils, these cleansers also include actives to target alternative skin concerns. You can find cleansing oils that contain chemical exfoliants that are great for dull, textured, or acne-prone skin, as well as brighteners like niacinamide, skin-protecting antioxidants, and soothing ingredients for reactive skin types.

    Texture

    According to Dr. Gohara, "lighter textures work best for oily skin, while thicker oils feel more luxurious for dry skin." Dr. Azi agrees, emphasizing that a good cleansing oil should rinse off easily without leaving a greasy residue. Cleansing oils also come in liquid and balm versions, and sometimes I prefer the latter, as it is less messy and easier to work with.

    Should I Use a Cleansing Oil Morning and Night?

    For those who wear makeup or follow a double cleansing routine, cleansing oils are best used at night, making them ideal for washing away the day's buildup of dirt, oil, and makeup. Dr. Lal advises nighttime use to "rid the skin of oils accumulated throughout the day," while Dr. Gohara agrees, calling evening "prime time for cleansing oils." In the morning, a gentle cleanser usually suffices, though dry skin types may enjoy the added moisture of a cleansing oil on an as-needed basis.

    Why Trust Marie Claire

    For more than 30 years, Marie Claire has been an internationally recognized destination for news, fashion, and beauty trends, investigative packages, and more. When it comes to the products Marie Claire recommends, we take your faith in us seriously. Every product that we feature comes personally recommended by a Marie Claire writer or editor, or by an expert we’ve spoken to firsthand.

    How We Tested

    Marie Claire Beauty Editor, Siena Gagliano, went through a vigorous testing period where she reviewed dozens of cleansing oils. After determining the top picks alongside dermatologists and skincare experts, she tested each cleanser with her most worn, and hardest-to-remove makeup products: A satin lipstick, cream eyeshadow, and waterproof liquid eyeliner.

    Each cleansing oil was massaged on top of the product for 60 seconds, emulsified with a bit of water, and rinsed off. The results, along with the texture, ingredients, and post-cleanse feel, determined this list of the 14 best cleansing oils. She also evaluated customer reviews and best-selling products across our favorite retailers.

    Meet the Experts

    cleansing oil expert
    Charlotte Cho
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    Founder and CEO of Then I Met You and Soko Glam

    Charlotte Cho is the founder of the skincare line Then I Met You and co-founder of the incredibly popular K-beauty site Soko Glam. After moving to South Korea after college, she discovered the skin-first philosophy of Korean beauty. After co-founding Soko Glam with her husband Dave in 2012, she later earned her esthetician license, blending the best of Western and Korean skincare. Cho's expertise has made her a trusted voice in the beauty industry where she continues to educate consumers about her passion for skincare rooted in K-beauty practices.

    board-certified dermatologist
    Dr. Azadeh Shirazi
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    Board Certified Dermatologist

    Internationally renowned board-certified Dermatologist in La Jolla, Dr. Azadeh Shirazi—or Dr. Azi, as her patients know her—specializes in a wide range of skincare and beauty treatments. As the founder of La Jolla Dermatology Laser Surgery Center, she embodies a strong passion for aesthetics and truly enjoys the art of cosmetic surgery. Dr. Azi has patented an under-eye treatment technique called EyeGlow® using a white opaque filler blend to lift and brighten dark circles.  She also enjoys delivering valuable information on health, beauty, and wellness to consumers through her podcast, More than a Pretty Face, as well as other media outlets. 

    board-certified dermatologist Mona Gohara
    Dr. Mona Gohara
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    Board Certified Dermatologist

    Dr. Mona Gohara, a Yale-trained board-certified dermatologist and former chief resident at Yale New Haven Hospital, is an associate clinical professor at Yale, where she continues to teach and mentor. As President of the Women's Dermatologic Society and chair of several committees for the American Academy of Dermatology and the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery, Dr. Gohara is a recognized leader in her field. A trusted medical expert, she frequently contributes to Marie Claire, ELLE, Cosmopolitan, Vogue, and more, and serves on the advisory board for Women's Health. Her clinical focus and interests include skin of color and both medical and surgical dermatology.

    dermatologist headshot
    Dr. Karan Lal
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    Board Certified Dermatologist

    Dr. Karan Lal is a double board-certified dermatologist specializing in pediatric and adult dermatology, laser surgery, soft tissue filler augmentation, body sculpting, and pigmentary skin conditions. Dr. Lal treats patients of all ages, from infancy onward, and is an internationally renowned speaker. His expertise has been featured in top media outlets, including ELLE, Harper’s Bazaar, and Marie Claire.

    Explore More
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    Siena Gagliano
    Siena Gagliano
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    Beauty Editor

    Siena Gagliano is the Beauty Editor at Marie Claire, where she writes and edits reported features, trend stories, and expert-backed shopping roundups. Before joining the team full-time, she was an editor at Cosmopolitan, where she specialized in SEO-first beauty content and commerce strategy. Her bylines have also appeared in Allure, ELLE, Bustle, Well+Good, Popsugar, and Women's Health, covering everything from the best products for brighter, glowier skin to the science behind face mapping. Curious about the behind-the-scenes magazine life and her go-to beauty picks? Follow her on Instagram at @sienagagliano.

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