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The 14 Best Cleansing Oils We've Tried for Soft, Truly Clean Skin

Where makeup removal meets glowy skin.

images of dermalogica precleanse, shiseido perfect cleansing oil, and sulwhasoo gentle cleansing oil on a cream-colored background with shadows

Byrdie / Alli Waataja

In the case of cleansing oils, these formulas can help cut through the oils in makeup, sunscreen, and others that build up on the skin, and dissolve them, leaving the skin extra clean. And, unlike their sudsy face wash counterparts, there’s no risk of stripping or over-drying the skin, since oils are innately hydrating.

While they’re an especially awesome pick for dry or sensitive types, face oils work well on all skin…yes, even acne-prone and oily. We tested 20 of the best cleansing oils available today to find the best ones for every skin type. As we used each one, we considered its ingredients, consistency, and ability to remove dirt, oil, and makeup. Finally, we chatted with a cosmetic chemist who helped us land on these truly impressive oil cleansers that may make you rethink your old face-cleansing routine.

What We Like
  • Gentle and incredibly hydrating

  • Luxe packaging

  • Removes stubborn makeup

  • Softening

What to Consider
  • Some ingredients can clog pores for acneic skin types

Key Ingredients: Japanese camellia oil (tsubaki), hadasei-3 | Skin Type: Dry, mature, combination | Size: 1.7 or 5 fluid ounces | Cruelty-Free: Yes

The star of the show here is Japanese camellia oil, which may be higher in omega fatty acids than even olive oil. Translation: It’s a really good skincare ingredient and super hydrating for even the most parched complexions. Stacey appreciated how well it removed her makeup and cleansed her skin while remaining gentle and hydrating. Though she didn't experience breakouts, it's worth mentioning that the formula contains apricot kernel oil and jojoba oil, both of which can be pore-clogging for those with acne-prone skin. The formula and packaging feel so high-quality, making it a perfect luxury addition to any skincare routine.

Read Full Review: Reviewed: Tatcha Pure One-Step Camellia Cleansing Oil

Before and after comparison of a person using cleansing oil on their skin

Byrdie / Nicole Pulyado

Stacey, age 25 to 34 with dry skin

"I've used oil cleansers in the past from other high-end brands and this one is the most lightweight and hydrating. Not only did it leave my skin baby-soft, but there was no residue left behind that would require a second cleanse. Given I have naturally dry, dehydrated skin, the less cleansing the better."

What We Like
  • Soothing and anti-inflammatory

  • Lightweight, easy-gliding texture

  • Suitable for most skin types

What to Consider
  • It can be potentially pore-clogging for some

Key Ingredients: Heartleaf extract, sunflower seed oil, olive oil, jojoba oil | Skin Type: All skin types | Size: 5 ounces | Cruelty-Free: Yes

With a laundry list of botanical oils like sunflower seed oil, macadamia seed oil, olive oil, jojoba oil, grapeseed oil, and moringa oil, it's safe to say that this formula is nourishing. And, shockingly, it doesn't leave behind a trace of residue. The formula has an earthy-floral scent that Michelle enjoyed while cleansing. Similarly to a few other options on this list, it could be potentially pore-clogging for some individuals prone to breakouts due to the thick oils. If you have very acne-prone skin you might want to skip this one.

A person's skin before and after cleansing with ANUA Heartleaf Pore Control Cleansing Oil

Byrdie / Jhett Thompson

Michelle, age 35 to 44 with combination skin

"This cleanser is gentle and effective. It thoroughly cleaned off my makeup without needing to double cleanse. My skin felt refreshed and smooth afterward. I had no irritation, even around my eyes, and I loved that it required almost no effort to rub it into my skin. My makeup came right off."

What We Like
  • Contains fruit enzymes to gently exfoliate

  • Luxe formula and bottle

  • Breaks down makeup and SPF without stripping skin

  • Consistency has slip to it without being runny

What to Consider
  • Feels like it needs to be followed up with a more traditional cleanser

Key Ingredients: Fruit enzymes, squalane, chia, moringa, spirulina | Skin Type: All | Size: 4 ounces | Cruelty-Free: Yes

This pick does an excellent job of breaking down SPF, makeup, and grime from the day, making it a perfect first step in your makeup removal and cleansing routine (otherwise known as double cleansing). It contains a blend of fruit enzymes that gently exfoliate the skin, so you can expect the formula to slough away dead skin while illuminating the complexion in the process. The product does leave behind a subtle residue, so you'll likely have to follow up with a regular cleanser.

Richard age 25 to 34, with normal skin

"This cleanser has a beautiful slip to it without feeling too slick between the fingers. It feels great on the skin and rubs in easily, making my skin feel soft and smooth throughout the process."

What We Like
  • Great for all skin types

  • Gentle on the skin

  • Leaves skin soft and smooth

  • Little bit goes a long way

What to Consider
  • Not ideal for removing waterproof eye makeup

Key Ingredients: Rosehip oil, olive oil, sunflower seed oil, orange peel oil | Skin Type: All | Size: 3.4 fluid ounces | Cruelty-Free: Yes

People with sensitive skin know that harsh cleansers can cause irritation. If you struggle to find a cleanser that's gentle enough for your skin while still adequately cleaning it, we recommend trying this one. The formula contains a blend of nourishing oils, like olive oil, sunflower seed oil, rosehip oil, and more to break down grease, SPF, and makeup without stripping the skin. Shecquana said the oil left her skin soft and balanced, but it's not ideal for removing face makeup. The light mascara she had on was smeared around, so she had to wipe her eyes for a bit longer than she'd have liked. Despite that, she still loved the formula and the pump bottle which never failed her during the testing period.

A person before and after applying the Pai Light Work Rosehip Cleansing Oil

Byrdie / Jhett Thompson

Shecquana age 18 to 24, with combination skin

"This oil cleanser spreads nicely on the face and it has a soothing texture. A little bit goes a long way, I think you'd get a sufficient amount of product with just one or two pumps."

What We Like
  • Gentle on skin but tough on makeup

  • Doubles as aromatherapy

  • Lightweight

What to Consider
  • Consistency is a bit too slippery

Key Ingredients: Lavender essential oil, evening primrose oil, squalene | Skin Type: All | Size: 2.9 or 5.9 fluid ounces | Cruelty-Free: No

You could totally use this cleanser in the morning, but we like reserving it for the evening for several reasons. One, it’s awesome at taking off makeup (Shecquana says one pump is all you need to take everything, including mascara, off) and is gentle enough to use around your eyes. Two, it pulls double duty as aromatherapy, thanks to the addition of lavender essential oil; one whiff is instantly calming and relaxing. Shecquana's only gripe was that the formula was a bit too lightweight for her liking (veering on slippery territory).

Shecquana, age 18 to 24 with combination skin

"This formula is lightweight and does a great job of removing makeup. I had on light mascara and everything was removed with one wash."

What We Like
  • Ginseng and oils help nourish skin

  • Non-comedogenic formulation

  • Works well for sensitive skin

What to Consider
  • Not the deepest cleanse

Key Ingredients: Ginseng root oil, soybean oil, rice bran oil, sunflower seed oil | Skin Type: All | Size: 6.7 fluid ounces | Cruelty-Free: Yes

This formulation from Korean skincare brand Beauty of Joseon is among the best on the market. With a silky yet thin texture, it feels like a dream on the face—Stephanie almost forgot to wash it off. It's a true oil cleanser (so it doesn't get soapy or sudsy the more you rub it) and is a nice addition to any daily routine. It's not the deepest clean, so those who wear lots of makeup or sunscreen (or have very oily skin) will likely need to follow up with a separate face wash to feel completely clean.

Stephanie, age 35 to 44 with combination skin

"My face is so clean and fresh after cleansing. The product is robust and cleansed my skin without stripping it, making it feel soft and supple. My face feels like my face, but better!"

What We Like
  • Rice bran oil helps retain moisture in skin

  • Lightweight and hydrating

  • Slight lather for deep clean

What to Consider
  • Not cruelty-free

Key Ingredients: Rice bran oil, silk amino acids, fragrance oils | Skin Type: All | Size: 4 ounces | Cruelty-Free: No

Rich in rice bran oil (an ingredient rich in antioxidants that helps the skin retain moisture) and amino acids, this cleanser is a treat. Plus, as Lee shares, it didn't require much effort to visibly remove makeup. The formula has a milky, semi-translucent consistency that's lovely to work with (aka not messy). Lee was able to get a sufficient amount of product with one pump and it rinsed off quickly sans residue.

Lee, age 35 to 44 with sensitive, dry skin

"This oil cleanser had a silky, smooth quality that's not too thick or viscous. It glided over my skin super with ease and prevented skin pulling or tension during cleansing. It felt like a true oil except when it emulsified lightly in water, providing a thorough cleanse."

What We Like
  • Blend of 9 hydrating oils

  • Doesn't strip skin

  • Jelly-like consistency feels nice on the skin

  • Long nail-friendly, sleek packaging

What to Consider
  • Leaves behind a residue

Key Ingredients: Kalahari melon seed oil, baobab seed oil, castor oil, essential oils, shea butter | Skin Type: All | Size: 5 ounces | Cruelty-Free: Yes

With a jelly-like texture, sleek packaging, and a nourishing formula featuring nine oils, this cleansing oil from Rihanna's Fenty Beauty is not to be missed. According to the brand, the formula is designed to break down the most long-wearing, waterproof makeup without stripping the skin of its natural oils. And it certainly delivers; Austin noted that his face felt fully clean after use. (So much so that he didn't need to follow up with a second cleanser.) As for application, it couldn't be easier; the sleek purple bottle is equipped with a flip top and a pump, so the formula comes out in a straight, vertical motion (making it nail-friendly).

Austin, age 35 to 44 with combination skin

"This formula has a smooth, jelly-like consistency that's unlike other oils I've tried. After one wash, my face felt hydrated, refreshed and nourished. Compared to a regular face wash, it did feel more hydrating and it required similar effort."

What We Like
  • Designed to penetrate deep in pores

  • Emulsifies well with water for an effective clean

  • Minimal risk for irritation or sensitivity

What to Consider
  • Flimsy pump can get slimy

Key Ingredients: Calendula extract, sunflower seed oils, jojoba oil, macadamia seed oil | Skin Type: All | Size: 5 ounces | Cruelty-Free: Yes

This cleansing oil is a great option for anyone seeking a gentle, effective cleanse with minimal, naturally-derived ingredients. It's easy to see why Sunita was such a fan. The formula consists of 94% plant oil and is light enough to spread easily across the skin. Her favorite part: It emulsified upon contact with water without turning foamy. The plastic top can get oily, slimy, and flimsy, so we suggest cleaning to off after a few uses.

A person before and after cleansing with the iUNIK Calendula Complete Deep Vegan Cleansing Oil

Byrdie

Sunita, age 55 to 64 with normal, balanced skin

"Having used the face wash from the brand (which I love), I was keen on testing the oil cleanser. I love that it did not feel like a heavy oil and was efficient at taking my makeup off my face. A well-priced product as well with a handful of good ingredients."

What We Like
  • Emulsifies and breaks down makeup and grime

  • Lots of slip without being messy

  • Great bottle

What to Consider
  • Thick oil could be pore-clogging for some

Key Ingredients: Olive oil, rosemary leaf oil, tocopherol (vitamin E) | Skin Type: All | Size: 6.7 fluid ounces | Cruelty-Free: No

This oldie-but-goodie has been around for three decades and remains super popular. One of the OG cleansing oils to launch stateside, it uses hydrating vitamin E, organic olive oil, and rosemary oil to clean every last trace of gunk and grime while leaving the skin looking and feeling hydrated. (Keep in mind the thick oil could be comedogenic for some.) Aside from a nice-feeling formula, Nikki loved the pump bottle. A semi-transparent and soft-textured plastic, the bottle sits nicely in the hand and has a pump that allows for controlled dispensing. Two pumps of the product was a sufficient amount to spread over the entire face.

Nikki, age 45 to 54 with combination skin

"It spreads very nicely over the skin and does not lather but rather creates a creamy film as it emulsifies and breaks down makeup and grime. As I gently massaged my face, I could see the makeup lifting and melting in the layer of oil. It took very little effort as the slip of the oil made it very easy to spread the product and remove my makeup."

What We Like
  • Hydrating and softening

  • Feels refreshing during use

  • Skin appears radiant immediately after washing off

What to Consider
  • Leaves behind an oily residue

Key Ingredients: Sunflower seed oil, Papaya seed oil, pumpkin oil, vitamin E | Skin Type: All | Size: 4 fluid ounces | Cruelty-Free: Yes

Amy was a fan of this product and gave bonus points for the elegant packaging (the glass bottle shows off the different layers of oils in the formula) and how easy it was to use. Her only gripe was that a subtle oily residue was left behind after washing it off. This might not be ideal for some people (aka those with oily skin), however, for Amy and those with super dry skin, the smooth, hydrated finish only added radiance and suppleness.

Amy, age 35 to 44 with combination skin

"This is a 'dual-phase cleaner' where an obvious separation of the layers of liquid can be seen from the bottle. I needed to shake the bottle to mix the product before use, making it into a milky formula. It lathered well and spread over my face very easily, requiring little to no effort to remove makeup and sunscreen. However, it didn't feel as if I could rinse off this oil cleanser from my face entirely. It still felt a little greasy on my skin."

Peach & Lily Ginger Melt cleansing Oil
PHOTO:

Ulta

What We Like
  • Breaks down full-coverage and waterproof makeup very well

  • Leaves skin supple, bouncy, and hydrated

  • Scent very subtle

What to Consider
  • Not safe for use around the eye area

Key Ingredients: Ginger root extract, sunflower seed oil, grapeseed oil, pineapple extract, papaya extract | Skin Type: All, including oily and sensitive | Size: 0.17 and 5.07 fluid ounces | Cruelty-Free: Yes

This cleanser is chock-full of plant-forward ingredients like ginger, pineapple, sunflower seed oil, and grapeseed oil. It has a peach-clear color and a light oil consistency that feels gentle on the skin, but the ginger and pineapple combo might be too much for the sensitive eye area (despite what the brand might say). Upon contact with water, it turns foamy and removes makeup—even long-wearing, waterproof kinds—with ease.

Sunita, age 55 to 64 with normal, balanced skin

"This oil cleanser removed my makeup well—I didn't notice any remaining makeup left behind. While I didn't use it close to my eyes (I didn't have eye makeup on), the cleanser made my eyes burn immediately. The rest of my skin felt and looked clean, though."

Best for Double Cleansing

Dermalogica Precleanse

Sephora Dermalogica Precleanse Cleansing Oil
PHOTO:

Sephora

What We Like
  • Several sizes available

  • Excels at removing stubborn makeup

  • Suitable for use around the eyes

What to Consider
  • Can be easy to use too much if not careful

Active Ingredients: Capric triglyceride, capryloyl glycol, isopropyl palmitate | Skin Type: All | Size: 5, 8.4, 16.9, and 33.8 fluid ounces | Cruelty-Free: Yes

Easy to use (thanks to a minimalist aesthetic bottle with a pump applicator) this no-nonsense oil removes makeup—even in the sensitive eye area—without irritation. While Meghan felt like she had to follow up with another cleanser, she didn't think that was too important given that this formula is intended to be used alongside another formula (hence the name). She used two pumps of the product (any more than that would have been a waste) and it easily removed waterproof makeup—she said it was the fastest she'd ever removed her makeup.

Meghan, age 25 to 34 with normal skin

"My skin was left clean and bright after using the Dermalogica Precleanse. It wasn't goopy and thick like some others in this category; in fact, it was a very thin, transparent formula with a calming eucalyptus scent that felt luxurious. I experienced no irritation and it didn't leave my eyes super cloudy like some cleansers. I love this cleanser."

What We Like
  • Luxurious feel

  • Lightweight consistency that emulsifies well with water for easy rinsing

  • Several size varieties available

What to Consider
  • Eye makeup might require a separate makeup remover

Ket Ingredients: Jojoba oil, apricot kernel oil, tamanu oil | Skin Type: All | Size: 5, 7.6, and 16 fluid ounces | Cruelty-Free: Yes

This lightweight cleanser from Shiseido can melt away waterproof makeup and dirt without drying out the skin or making it feel tight. It's rich in several oils, including jojoba oil, apricot kernel oil, and tamanu oil, and well tolerated by all skin types. Also nice: It comes in several size options to pick the option that suits you and your needs best. Amy's only gripe with this formula is that there was a bit of leftover eyeliner at the corner of one of her eyes after rinsing off the product, so she said next time, she'd opt for a separate eye makeup remover.

Amy, age 35 to 44 with combination skin

"This oil cleanser did a good job in removing most of the makeup from my skin, and afterward, my skin felt smoother."

What to Look for When Buying a Cleansing Oil

  • Ingredients: These days, most cleansing oils rely on a blend of oils that differ from formula to formula. Cosmetic chemist and skincare expert Michelle Wong likes sunflower and grapeseed to start because they’re affordable and less occlusive (i.e. not greasy or likely to leave a film). More expensive oils like camellia, rosehip, argan, and sweet almond are also effective and can offer certain nourishing benefits and/or a beautiful experience when it comes to scent profile. 
  • Non-comedogenic oils: Wong does point out that coconut oil and olive oil are ones to potentially avoid; coconut oil because it can clog pores and olive oil because it’s often processed and this can lead to irritation. Each product and brand is different, though, so be sure to do independent research. 
  • Skin type: This is less important, but it’s still nice to end up with a product you actually enjoy using, right? Dry skin types might love a rich, viscous oil, whereas oil-prone complexions will fare better with a lightweight product that rinses off well.
FAQ
  • How does cleansing oil work?

    Cleansing oils work on the premise that like dissolves like. According to Wong, a lot of skincare, SPF, and makeup products are oil-based, meaning an oil-based cleanser may be more effective when it comes to removing them.

  • How do you use cleansing oil?

    Cleansing oils are typically suggested as a first step in your cleansing routine to dissolve dirt, grime, makeup, and sunscreen. Try applying one to a dry face, emulsifying it with a little water, and really massaging in, focusing on areas such as the eyes and lips, then rinse with warm water or remove with a face washer.

  • How often should you oil-cleanse?

    While the choice is ultimately yours, oil cleansers work best at night as a first cleanse to remove everything that’s accumulated on your face during the day. They can also function as a morning cleanser for skin that’s really dry—just be sure to either pick a lightweight formula that doesn’t leave a filmy texture or remove more thoroughly with a face cloth so serums and moisturizers can penetrate.

Why Trust Byrdie

Byrdie contributor Melanie Rud has over a decade of experience in the beauty industry, writing for some of the biggest magazines and websites out there. She's tested countless cleansers over the years—from foaming formulas to oils, gels, and creams.

Caitlyn Martyn is a commerce writer on staff at Byrdie, where she covers all things beauty and style. She relied on tester insights to update this story in 2024.

For this story, we consulted:

  • Michelle Wong is a cosmetic chemist and educator who's the brains behind educational beauty platform Lab Muffin—a website and YouTube channel where she breaks down skin care and cosmetic ingredients in products to a general audience. She has a PhD in chemistry from the University of Sydney.
Edited by Ally Hirschlag
Article Sources
Byrdie takes every opportunity to use high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our editorial guidelines to learn more about how we keep our content accurate, reliable and trustworthy.
  1. Chen W, He M, Xie L, Li L. The optimal cleansing method for the removal of sunscreen: water, cleanser or cleansing oil?J Cosmet Dermatol. 2020;19(1):180-184. doi:10.1111/jocd.12995

  2. Zeng W, Endo Y. Lipid characteristics of camellia seed oilJ Oleo Sci. 2019;68(7):649-658. doi:10.5650/jos.ess18234

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