When it comes to cutting through the most stubborn waterproof mascara and long-lasting lipsticks, the best cleansing oils can’t be beat. Here are our top picks.
Cleansing oils can be polarizing: Many skincare enthusiasts swear by these slippery, silky formulas, while others recoil at the idea of removing a day’s worth of oil with, well, more oil. But anyone who’s tried one would agree that the best cleansing oils can’t be beat when it comes to cutting through makeup, sunscreen and grime—like our top pick the Shiseido Perfect Cleansing Oil, which takes everything off at the end of the day with ease.
Since oil dissolves oil, these rich formulas make for incredible cleansers (yes, even if you’re oily-skinned or acne-prone), and unlike their sudsy face wash counterparts there’s no risk of drying or stripping the skin. Innately hydrating, most are infused with ingredients you’d find in a good face moisturizer, like jojoba, almond and grapeseed oils, which actively nourish skin while giving it a deep clean (similar to what eye makeup removers do). And perhaps the best part about dislodging caked-on makeup this way is the spa-worthy ritual of massaging the formula onto your face and the satisfying visual of it all melting away. Ahead, the top formulas for every budget, skin type and complexion goal that make your skin feel impossibly soft and pampered post-rinse.
Best Cleansing Oil Overall: Shiseido Perfect Cleansing Oil
Best Drugstore Cleansing Oil: Neutrogena Ultra Light Cleansing Oil
Best Luxury Cleansing Oil: Tata Harper Nourishing Oil Cleanser
Best Natural Cleansing Oil: DHC Deep Cleansing Oil
Best Cleansing Oil For Dry Skin: Biossance Squalane + Antioxidant Cleanser
Best Cleansing Oil For Oily Skin: Dermalogica Precleanse Oil
Best Cleansing Oil For Sensitive Skin: Avène Xeracalm Cleansing Oil
Best Cleansing Oil For Mature Skin: Elemis Pro-Collagen Balm
Best Cleansing Oil For Acne-Prone Skin: Pai Skincare Light Work What To Look For In A Cleansing Oil
Like with any skincare product, it’s important to consider your skin type and goals when making a new purchase.
