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Top 6 Best Oil Cleansers for Double Cleansing

Written by Andrew Le, MD

UpdatedOctober 23, 2024

The process of double cleansing is a skin care technique where two cleansers are used to cleanse the face to remove make-up, dirt and excess oils. The first is an oil-based cleanser that breaks down makeup and sebum while the second one is a water-based cleanser that can get rid of any remaining dirt. Another factor that is equally important when it comes to double cleansing is understanding the right type of oil cleanser to use.

Oil cleansers are available in different forms such as balm, cream, and liquid form. They function by drawing oil-based dirt, such as makeup and sebum, onto the surface of the skin and breaking it down. Oil cleansers are also popular for being nourishing and non-irritating, which is perfect for those who have dry or sensitive skin.

Top 3 Best Oil Cleansers for Double Cleansing

  1. VILLAGE11FACTORY Miracle Youth Double Cleanser
  2. LA ROCHE POSAY Lipkar Ar Cleansing Oil
  3. Sulwhasoo Gentle Cleansing Oil

As you are aware, it can be quite challenging to identify the right oil cleanser for double cleansing. There are so many products on the market that it can be difficult to determine which one will work for you. That is why we have taken the time to do the research and testing for you. In this article, we have gathered a list of the best oil cleansers that will effectively cleanse your skin while at the same time hydrating it and making it glowing. For dry skin, oily skin, or even combination skin, we have the perfect solution for you. Without any further delay, let’s jump straight into the list of the best oil cleansers for double cleansing that we have selected for you.


VILLAGE11FACTORY Miracle Youth Double Cleanser

Editor's Choice

VILLAGE11FACTORY Miracle Youth Double Cleanser

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If you are in search of a mild oil cleanser for double cleansing, we strongly endorse VILLAGE11FACTORY Miracle Youth Double Cleanser.

Pros

  • The 2-in-1 formula with 10 types of plant oils provides a thorough cleansing experience without leaving a greasy residue.
  • The cleanser contains V11TM complex and Glycerin, which replenish hydration and provide antioxidant benefits.
  • The sulfate-free formula with 88% natural ingredients is gentle enough for delicate skin.

Cons

  • The oil-to-foam formula may not be suitable for those who prefer traditional oil cleansers.
  • Some users may find the scent overpowering.
  • The price point may be higher than other oil cleansers on the market.

Specifically, we have been pleased with the performance of VILLAGE11FACTORY Miracle Youth Double Cleanser. The oil-to-foam formula was easy on water and effectively washed off makeup and other dirt off the skin without leaving the skin dry. Following the wash off of the cleanser, our skin felt silky and moisturized.

The 2-in-1 formula is very practical for people who do not have too much time to spend in the skincare process. V11TM complex & Glycerin added in the formulation of the product offers beyond cleansing skin benefits.

To some, the scent may be overpowering, but we personally felt that it had a very fresh and awakening smell. While the product may be priced slightly higher than other oil cleansers in the market, we feel that the quality of the product needs to reflect the high price.

In conclusion, for those seeking a gentle yet efficient oil cleanser for double cleansing, we strongly recommend VILLAGE11FACTORY Miracle Youth Double Cleanser.


LA ROCHE POSAY Lipkar Ar Cleansing Oil

LA ROCHE POSAY Lipkar Ar Cleansing Oil

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If you are considering getting an oil cleanser for your skin type, it would be worth it to try the LA ROCHE POSAY Lipkar Ardry To Extra Dry Skinoilpump Bottlebody And Faceshea Butter, Niacinamidehydrationfoaming Cleansing Oil Unscented 1352 Fl Oz (Pack of 1) as it is gentle on sensitive skin.

Pros

  • This oil cleanser is fragrance-free, which makes it an ideal choice for those with sensitive skin.
  • It's formulated with shea butter and niacinamide, which help to hydrate and soothe the skin.
  • This cleansing oil is gentle on the skin and effectively removes makeup and impurities.

Cons

  • This oil cleanser may not be suitable for those with oily skin, as it can leave a slightly greasy residue.
  • It's a bit pricey compared to other oil cleansers on the market.
  • Some users may find the pump to be a bit difficult to use.

This oil cleanser comes with shea butter and niacinamide, which assist in moisturizing and calming the skin. It is especially suitable for those who seek a product that not only purifies the skin, but also nourishes it and makes it healthy.

However, one disadvantage of this oil cleanser is that it may not be ideal for people with oily skin because it leaves the skin slightly oily. Moreover, it is relatively expensive compared to other oil cleansers available for purchase. Some users may also find the pump itself to be a little complicated to use.

In summary, when it comes to the LA ROCHE POSAY Lipkar Ardry To Extra Dry Skinoilpump Bottlebody And Faceshea Butter, Niacinamidehydrationfoaming Cleansing Oil Unscented 1352 Fl Oz (Pack of 1), it is a highly recommended oil cleanser for individuals with sensitive skin.


Sulwhasoo Gentle Cleansing Oil: Silky Hydrating Texture to Melt Away Waterproof Makeup & SPF 1.69 Fl Oz (Pack of 1)

Sulwhasoo Gentle Cleansing Oil: Silky Hydrating Texture to Melt Away Waterproof Makeup & SPF 1.69 Fl Oz (Pack of 1)

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For people seeking a mild cleansing oil that effectively removes waterproof makeup and sun protection factor, Sulwhasoo Gentle Cleansing Oil is ideal.

Pros

  • It has a silky, hydrating texture that feels luxurious on the skin.
  • The tangerine and apricot scent is refreshing and invigorating.
  • It's suitable for all skin types, including oily, combination, sensitive, dry, and normal.

Cons

  • It may not be effective at removing waterproof mascara.
  • The price point is a bit high for the amount of product you receive.
  • It has a fragrance that may not be appealing to everyone.

Recently we tested Sulwhasoo Gentle Cleansing Oil, and we can say that it met our expectations. The oil has a thin consistency that does not feel sticky on the skin and is easily absorbed by the skin when applied. Make-up is effortlessly wiped off together with all other dirt without being extremely harsh on the skin and drying it up.

Another good thing about this cleansing oil is that it comes with moisturizing benefits. There was no feeling of tightness or dryness of our skin after using it, and our skin felt silky to the touch. The fruity smell, particularly of tangerines and apricots, also feels good to the skin and is a nice extra.

Sulwhasoo Gentle Cleansing Oil is appropriate for those with any skin type but might not be perfect for those who use thick waterproof mascara. It’s not very effective at getting rid of this kind of makeup and we had to use an additional product to achieve this.

In conclusion, Sulwhasoo Gentle Cleansing Oil could be recommended to every woman who is in a search of a gentle but effective makeup remover and cleansing oil with moisturizing properties. This is still on the high end in terms of the prices, but we think it delivers value as an investment to get the desired outcomes.


Neutrogena Ultra-Light Cleansing Oil

Neutrogena Ultra-Light Cleansing Oil

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If you want a mild but effective oil cleanser, it is worth trying Neutrogena Ultra-Light Cleansing Oil.

Pros

  • Removes makeup, dirt, and oil without leaving a greasy residue
  • Lightweight formula won't clog pores
  • Clinically tested by dermatologists and ophthalmologists

Cons

  • May not effectively remove heavy or waterproof makeup
  • Has a slightly unpleasant taste if it gets in your mouth
  • Pump dispenser can be difficult to control, leading to wasted product

From our experiment, we realized that this cleansing oil washed off makeup and dirt accumulated in a day regime without leaving the skin oily. It is a low-impact product that does not contain heavy oils and is appropriate for most skin types. But it is not the best if you are going to apply heavy or waterproof makeup.

The only drawback we found is that the oil feels rather dirty if it gets on the lips, and since it may be massaged on the lips to assist in the removal of lip products, it is better to wash out the area swiftly. Also, the pump dispenser is often hard to control and this means it often dispenses too much product.

All in all, we suggest Neutrogena Ultra-Light Cleansing Oil for those who are searching for the mild and relatively cheap oil cleanser which removes makeup and sebum effectively.


CeraVe Hydrating Foaming Oil Cleanser Wash

CeraVe Hydrating Foaming Oil Cleanser Wash

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The CeraVe Hydrating Foaming Oil Cleanser is perfect for those who want a mildly abrasive oil cleanser that doesn’t remove your skin’s natural oils.

Pros

  • Daily wash with hyaluronic acid, ceramides, squalane & triglycerides cleanses without stripping moisture.
  • Transforms from an oil into a soft lathering foam to cleanse, to help hydrate, and leave skin feeling comforted/comfortable without a tight, dry skin feeling.
  • Suitable to use as facial cleanser & body wash. Fragrance-free and non-comedogenic.

Cons

  • May not be effective at removing heavy makeup.
  • Some users may find the formula too thick.
  • May not be suitable for oily skin types.

In terms of the daily cleanser, we have discovered that CeraVe Hydrating Foaming Oil Cleanser is gentle on the skin and leaves the skin well-moisturized. The foaming oil is easy to apply over the face and the formula changes into a gentle foam that helps in removing the grime and extra oil without clogging the pores and leaving the skin oily.

This cleanser does not contain any fragrance which makes it appropriate for use by individuals with sensitive skin and it is non-comedogenic as well. We like that it has 3 core ceramide (1, 3, 6-II) that helps restore the skin’s barrier and does not make skin feel dry. Hyaluronic acid is also beneficial as it assists in pulling moisture to the outer layer of the skin and retain that moisture during the day.

In conclusion, we would suggest CeraVe Hydrating Foaming Oil Cleanser to anyone with dry skin type up to very dry skin who’s looking for gentle, moisturising cleanser that is not aggressive to the skin’s barrier.


DHC Deep Cleansing Oil

DHC Deep Cleansing Oil

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If you want an oil cleanser that is actually capable of wiping off all makeup and dirt but is non-acnegenic at the same time, DHC Deep Cleansing Oil is not a bad bet.

Pros

  • The water-soluble formula rinses thoroughly, leaving your skin feeling clean and fresh.
  • The oil is rich in vitamins and antioxidants, which can help nourish and hydrate your skin.
  • In a clinical study, 92% of participants agreed that DHC Deep Cleansing Oil worked better than a leading cleanser at removing complexion makeup.

Cons

  • The oil may not be suitable for those with extremely oily skin.
  • Some users may find the fragrance-free formula a bit too plain.
  • The price point is a bit higher than some other oil cleansers on the market.

For the past few months now, we’ve been trying the DHC Deep Cleansing Oil, and so far, it has not disappointed. It removes all makeup including the waterproof mascara and eyeliner and when rinsed with water, it turns into a milky foam. It wash off very easily giving your skin that fresh feel that it deserves.

Among the things that we appreciate regarding this oil is that it is ideal for use on all skin types. It is mild on the skin and at the same time powerful enough to eliminate all stubborn stains. Moreover, it does not contain any added fragrance or colorants which can be appealing to users with sensitive skin.

In summary, we recommend DHC Deep Cleansing Oil for anyone who wants an efficient and non-harsh oil cleaner. It is a little expensive than other similar creams but we believe this deserves the price for the kind of cream it is.

Buying Guide

Selecting the best oil cleanser to use when double cleansing entails the following factors.

Skin Type

The first criterion one has to identify is the skin type. Oil cleaners are made differently depending on the skin type so you need to select a good one that suits your skin. For instance, if you have oily skin it is advisable to use an oil cleanser which is mild and does not contain heavy oils.

Ingredients

Another item that you should not overlook is the list of the ingredients used in the oil cleanser. Products that have natural and healthy components such as Jo joba oil, almond oil or coconut oil should be sought. Do not use cosmetics with abrasive substances or synthetic perfumes, since they will cause irritation to the skin.

Texture

The nature of the oil cleanser can also have a big impact on the effects that it has on your skin. There are dense types of oil cleansing that are thick while others are thin and can be applied smoothly. When selecting the texture, it is vital to take into account one’s skin type and personal preferences.

Price

Last of all, think about the cost of the oil cleanser. However, while it is possible to find products at very low prices, one must remember that products that are of high quality are somewhat expensive. This is why it is necessary to look for products that are reasonably priced to ensure maximum value for the amount of money that you have.

To sum up, when selecting an oil cleanser for double cleansing, one needs to take into account the type of skin, components, consistency, and cost of the product. Hence, by considering these factors, you can determine a product that suits you and ensures clean and healthy skin.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of cleanser should I use for double cleansing?

In the double cleansing regimen, the first cleanse should be done using an oil based formulation. This will aid in effectively dissolving and eliminating makeup, sunscreen, or excess sebum on the skin’s surface. This is followed by washing with water based cleanser that has the effect of washing out any remaining dirt and purifying the skin.

Can you double cleanse with an oil cleanser?

Yes, it is safe and possible to double cleanse with an oil cleanser. More specifically, it is advised that an oil cleanser is applied as the first cleanser when performing double cleansing. The oil will enable emulsification and washing out of makeup, dirt, and any other impurities that may be on the skin’s surface, hence, readiness of the skin for washing by the water-based cleanser.

What is the best oil cleanser to remove makeup?

The choice of oil cleanser for makeup removal will, therefore, depend on the skin type as well as personal preferences. It is better to prefer those oil cleansers containing natural oils like jojoba, almond, or grapeseed oil as they are mild and can easily remove makeup without damaging the skin’s natural oils. The most well-known makeup removers are DHC Deep Cleansing Oil, Clinique Take The Day Off Cleansing Oil, and The Face Shop Rice Water Bright Light Cleansing Oil.

What are the benefits of using an oil cleanser for double cleansing?

The benefits of employing an oil cleanser as the first cleanser in a two-step process include; Oil cleansers dissolve makeup, oil, and grime on the surface of the skin thus preparing it for the water-based cleanser to remove deeper dirt on the skin. Oil cleansers also aid in the moisturizing of the skin and it also has richness that makes the skin feel silky.

Which oils are best for double cleansing?

The best kinds of oil for double cleansing are those that do not irritate the skin but can effectively remove makeup and other forms of dirt. The best oils for double cleansing are jojoba oil, almond oil, grapeseed oil and sunflower oil.

What are some popular brands of oil cleansers for double cleansing?

Some of the best known oil cleansers for double cleansing are DHC Deep Cleansing Oil, The Face Shop Rice Water Bright Light Cleansing Oil, Banila Co Clean It Zero Cleansing Balm and Kose Softymo Speedy Cleansing Oil.

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