What is an Oil Cleanser & How Do You Use One?

If you've ever struggled to remove stubborn makeup, SPF or the day's build-up without leaving your skin feeling tight and stripped, an oil cleanser might be exactly what your routine is missing. Despite what the name might suggest, an oil cleanser doesn't leave your face greasy — it actually works with your skin's natural oils to clean it more gently and effectively than many traditional cleansers. Let's break down everything you need to know.

What is an oil cleanser?

An oil cleanser is exactly what it sounds like — a cleanser made from plant-based oils designed to dissolve impurities on the skin. Unlike foaming or gel cleansers that rely on surfactants and detergents, an oil based cleanser uses nourishing oils such as argan, jojoba, rosehip and avocado to lift away dirt, makeup, sunscreen and excess sebum without disrupting your skin's moisture barrier.

Think of it this way: oil attracts oil. So instead of stripping your face of everything (including the good stuff), a cleansing oil binds to the oils already on your skin — including the ones trapping dirt and impurities — and removes them when you rinse. What you're left with is clean, balanced skin that still feels soft and hydrated.

How does an oil cleanser work?

The science behind an oil cleanser is simple but effective. It works on the principle that like dissolves like. The oils in the cleanser bond with the oil-based impurities sitting on your skin — things like sebum, makeup, SPF and pollution particles. When you massage the oil cleanser into dry skin, it breaks down those impurities so they can be easily wiped or rinsed away.

Because oil cleansers don't rely on harsh surfactants, they cleanse without stripping the skin of its natural lipid layer. This is particularly important for people who struggle with dryness, sensitivity or conditions like eczema, where a damaged moisture barrier makes skin more reactive.

Who should use an oil cleanser?

Short answer: almost everyone. A common misconception is that oil cleansers are only suitable for dry skin, but they're actually brilliant for every skin type — including oily and acne-prone skin.

If you have oily skin, an oil based cleanser can help regulate sebum production. When you strip your skin with harsh cleansers, it often overcompensates by producing even more oil. An oil cleanser keeps things balanced.

If you have dry or sensitive skin, a cleansing oil provides a gentle cleanse without triggering tightness, flaking or irritation.

If you have combination skin, an oil cleanser hydrates drier areas while dissolving excess oil in the T-zone — giving you an even, comfortable finish.

If you have acne-prone skin, the right oil cleanser can actually help. Non-comedogenic oils like argan and jojoba won't clog pores. Instead, they help dissolve the sebum and dead skin cells that contribute to breakouts in the first place.

How to use an oil cleanser step by step

Using an oil cleanser is straightforward, but technique matters. Here's how to get the best results:

Step 1: Start with dry hands and a dry face. Oil and water don't mix, so applying the cleanser to wet skin will reduce its effectiveness.

Step 2: Dispense a small amount of oil cleanser — a few drops is usually enough — into your palms and warm it between your hands.

Step 3: Gently massage the oil into your face using circular motions for 30 to 60 seconds. Focus on areas where makeup, sunscreen or oil tends to build up — around the nose, chin, forehead and jawline.

Step 4: To remove, wet your hands with warm water and continue massaging. The oil will emulsify and turn slightly milky, making it easy to rinse away. Alternatively, use a warm damp cloth to gently wipe the oil off.

Step 5: Follow with a water-based cleanser if you're double cleansing, or continue with the rest of your skincare routine — toner, serum or moisturiser.

Oil cleanser vs regular cleanser — what's the difference?

The biggest difference is in how they clean. A regular cleanser — whether it's a foam, gel or micellar water — typically uses surfactants to lift dirt and oil from the skin. While effective, surfactants can be drying, especially for people with sensitive or compromised skin barriers.

An oil cleanser, on the other hand, dissolves impurities without surfactants. It cleans deeply but gently, leaving behind a thin layer of nourishment rather than that tight, squeaky-clean feeling that often signals your skin has been over-cleansed.

Many people find the best results come from combining both — using an oil cleanser as the first step to dissolve oil-based impurities, followed by a gentle water-based cleanser to sweep away anything remaining. This is the foundation of the double cleanse method, which has become a staple in effective skincare routines worldwide.

Common mistakes people make with oil cleansers

Applying to wet skin. Always start on a dry face. Water creates a barrier between the oil and your skin, preventing it from dissolving impurities properly.

Rushing the massage. Give the oil at least 30 seconds to work. Massaging it in allows the oils to bind with dirt and sebum — skip this and you won't get a thorough cleanse.

Using too much product. A little goes a long way. A few drops is plenty for the entire face. Over-applying won't make it more effective — it just wastes product.

Skipping the second cleanse. If you wear heavy makeup or SPF, following your oil cleanser with a water-based cleanser ensures everything is properly removed. An oil cleanser does the heavy lifting, but a second cleanse catches anything left behind.

Choosing the wrong oil. Not all oils are created equal. Look for non-comedogenic, cold-pressed, organic plant oils. Avoid mineral oil or synthetic fragrances, which can clog pores and irritate skin.

Ready to try an oil cleanser?

If you're looking for a natural oil cleanser that works for every skin type, try Sustain (oil cleansing protection) from Like It On Top. Made with organic argan oil, avocado oil, sweet almond oil, rosehip oil and vitamin E, Sustain dissolves impurities while nourishing your skin with every use. It's handmade, vegan and free from harsh chemicals — exactly what your skin deserves. Also available in a nut-free formula for those with allergies.

Looking for more? Browse our bestselling skincare products to find your perfect natural skincare routine.