what is a cleansing oil?

Cleansing oils are oil-based cleansers that effortlessly remove make up, environmental surface debris or pollution, and excess sebum from the skin. Cleansing oils work differently than traditional water, cream, gel-based or foaming cleansers. These cleansing types typically rely on surfactants, with some ingredients that attract and dissolve oil, make up, and the daily grime off the skin so that they’re suspended and then rinsed off with water.

what does an oil cleanser do?

As chemistry tells us, “like attracts like,” so oil-based cleansers can deconstruct oil-soluble substances like make up, environmental pollutants, excess sebum (oil), and residual product build-up for a deeper clean compared to only using your regular cleanser alone. The best way to wash your face is by using an oil-based cleanser to break down the day and follow with a cleanser suited to your skin type. We call this gentle yet effective cleansing technique the Dermalogica Double Cleanse.

using an oil cleanser before your regular cleanser helps to:

• Gently dissolve and remove built-up residue and make up
• Smooth, calm, and nourish skin without clogging pores
• Enables your regular cleanser and other skin care products to work more effectively
• Dissolve and remove mascara (even waterproof), heavy foundation, film leftover from physical sunscreen, lipstick, hard-to-remove lip stains, false eyelashes and eyelash extensions

is an oil cleanser necessary? 

Even if you don’t wear make up, oil-based cleansers remove any SPF residue and daily pollutants that regular cleanser leave behind. If you have an oily skin type, skin is more likely to attract surface debris and bacteria, leading to redness and breakouts. Oil cleansing gently lifts and breaks down excess oil and surface debris to give oily skin a more thorough and gentle cleansing option. Those with dry skin or sensitive skin have an impaired moisture barrier that can be bolstered by using an oil cleanser before moving on to a gentle second cleanse and exfoliation.

Oil cleansers soften skin, allowing targeted ingredients from moisturisers and serums to penetrate your skin better. Oil-based cleansers also help you avoid damaging your skin from scrubbing too hard. So, again, it doesn’t matter if you’re removing a full face of glamorous make up or just a day out and about; an oil cleanser is your best friend because it gently melts it all away.

who is a cleansing oil best for?

Adding a cleansing oil to your double cleansing routine can benefit all skin conditions, especially when followed by a second cleanser. In the end, using cleansing oil and doing a Double Cleanse is up to personal preference, but if you are a fan of stay-all-day make up products, wear SPF, have problematic skin issues, using a cleansing oil can be a game-changer for your skin.

how to choose a cleansing oil 

Always use products that avoid synthetic fragrance or problematic essential oils to avoid reactivity on dry skin or sensitive skin conditions and select formulas with plant derived oils over synthetic to avoid clogging residue left on the skin. There are many oils out there that help benefit the skin, including oily and breakout prone skins. Using cleansing oils containing Grapeseed Oil, Primrose Oil, or other non-pore-clogging oils like Argan Oil are excellent for oily and acne-prone skin types, and especially for dry and sensitive skin. Those with mature skin can address signs of skin ageing using oil cleansers containing Apricot Kernel Oil, a skin-softening oil that leaves skin feeling clean, looking brighter, and more supple.

how to use an oil cleanser

As skin heath experts, we know that the best way to use an oil cleanser is as the first step of your double cleansing routine, following with a cleanser suited to your skin type. Here’s how to begin your double cleanse using an oil-based cleanser.

Dispense oil-based cleanser into dry hands. Massage over a dry face and eyes, concentrating on areas of congestion, water-proof make up, or stubborn debris to dissolve surface oil and dirt. Wet hands and continue massaging to create a light, milky emulsion before rinsing with lukewarm water.

Follow with a prescribed Dermalogica cleanser to get professional cleansing results.

what’s the best cleansing oil for my skin condition?

Introducing Oil to Foam Total Cleanser, an all-in-one cleanser that removes make up, sunscreen, debris, excess sebum, and pollutants while leaving skin instantly soft and smooth.* The formula starts as a golden gel-oil infused with Sea Buckthorn Oil that melts away layers of make up, sunscreen, debris, and excess sebum. A splash of water transforms the gel-oil into a rich, cloud-like foam to wash away any remaining impurities. A plant-derived prebiotic acts as a moisture magnet, supporting long-lasting hydration. Great for those of you who like a quick ‘skinimalist’ routine.

*Based on independent clinical study results with 30 volunteers, one application.

For a twostep cleansing routine, PreCleanse is a lightweight oil ideal for balanced and oily skins. A deep-cleansing oil that melts make up and impurities from skin with nourishing oils of Borage Seed, Apricot Kernel, Kukui Nut, Rice Bran, and Sunflower Seed.

Alternatively, we have Micellar Prebiotic PreCleanse, ideal for dry and sensitive skin. The light milky formula contains Murumuru Butter, Oat milk, Apricot Kernel Oil, Cotton Seed Protein, and a Prebiotic Blend to attract and dissolve make up, sunscreen, and impurities. The gentle micelles thoroughly lifts debris whilst the microbiome balancing prebiotics replenish.

For a best overall double cleansing routine for all skin types, follow oil cleansing with Special Cleansing Gel. A soap-free, foaming cleanser that works to cleanse all skin conditions with a refreshing lather. It thoroughly removes impurities without disturbing the skin’s natural moisture balance. Lightweight and mild enough to use every day, this cleanser contains naturally foaming Quillaja Saponaria to gently rinse away toxins and debris to leave skin feeling smooth and clean. It also features calming Balm Mint and Lavender extracts to soothe the skin.

Want to learn more about which skin care products are right for you? Find your local Dermalogica skin therapist with our store finder or chat live now.