Testing notes: “I use this cleansing oil if I’m looking to remove stubborn makeup or self-tanner on my face,” says Glamour’s Kilkeary. “It’s great for sensitive areas because it also does a great job of soothing the redness around my nose. I love that it doesn’t break me out and that it has niacinamide—I already see a difference in the areas of my skin that are often dull and uneven toned. Bonus points: It can be used as a body wash too.”
Best for Oily Skin: The Ordinary Squalane Cleanser
The Ordinary Squalane Cleanser
Original video from Alanna Martine Kilkeary testing The Ordinary Squalane Cleanser
Dr. Garshick highly recommends this budget-friendly cleanser that turns from a balm into an oil during application. It’ll also “keep the skin hydrated and balanced thanks to squalane and lipids in the formula,” she says. This one is lightweight, so it works well for oily skin types, and is noncomedogenic, so it won’t break you out.
Testing notes: “As a rule, I’ve found that anything with squalane leaves my skin feeling plumped and moisturized,” says Glamour contributor Brittany Loggins. “This face wash was no exception. At a good price point, it is super gentle and comes recommended by dermatologists. That said, if you’re looking to truly slough away mascara and hard-to-remove eye makeup, you may have to be diligent about double-cleansing with this one. It left a little eye makeup residue behind; however, it was easily removed with another once-over of the face wash. Overall, I’d definitely purchase again if only for the skin-cleaning component.”
Best for Combination Skin: Beauty of Joseon Ginseng Cleansing Oil
Beauty of Joseon Ginseng Cleansing Oil for Gentle Daily Cleansing
Original video from Alanna Martine Kilkeary testing Beauty of Joseon Ginseng Cleansing Oil for Gentle Daily Cleansing
If you have combination skin, you know the struggle of finding a cleanser that won’t break you out, won’t clog pores, and won’t make your areas of redness worse. This incredibly calming deep cleansing oil will do just the trick—it’s great for acne-prone and sensitive skin types with a blend of ginseng seed oil, olive oil and soybean oil that work together to keep inflammation down and remove impurities and blackheads.
Testing notes: “My combination skin gets quite moody if I use a product that’s too harsh or clogs pores. This oil cleanser is the complete opposite—it’s super gentle and noncomedogenic, and removes stubborn makeup without making skin irritated or red. It’s lightweight and slippery to the touch, and I managed to get all of my makeup off with just two pumps,” says Glamour’s Kilkeary.
Best Korean Beauty: Ma:nyo Pure Cleansing Oil Deep Clean
Ma:nyo Pure Cleansing Oil Deep Clean
Original video from Sarah Y. Wu testing Manyo Pure Cleansing Oil Deep Clean
If you’re looking for a top-rated Korean cleanser, this antiaging Korean skin care pick is another favorite of Dr. Chang’s. “It’s formulated with noncomedogenic oils to hydrate the skin without clogging the pores,” she notes. It helps remove dirt, makeup, and sunscreen, and contains grapeseed, lavender, and sunflower-seed oils.
Testing notes: It’s also a go-to for Glamour contributor Sarah Y. Wu. “This vegan cleansing oil is fragrance-free and pairs well with all skin types, making it a safe bet for just about anyone. Simply dispense a few pumps onto your face, gently massage the oil into the skin, and watch all the impurities melt away,” she says.
Best Antiaging: Anua Heartleaf Pore Control Cleansing Oil
Anua Heartleaf Pore Control Cleansing Oil
Original video from Denise Pimbet testing Anua Heartleaf Pore Control Cleansing Oil
This antiaging K-beauty cleansing oil is packed with essential oils including sunflower seed, macadamia, jojoba, and heartleaf to help deep-clean skin and leave it looking bright and bouncy. It’s noncomedogenic, making it great for acne-prone skin types, and really gives you a glassy glow without leaving an oily residue behind. It also emulsifies quickly and leaves skin plump and clean.
Testing notes: “After using it consistently in my cleansing routine for two months, I noticed a sizable improvement to the quality of my skin and hydration levels. This Korean cleansing oil has a rich and silky texture. And once emulsified into a lovely milky blend, it leaves my skin supple and moisturized,” says Glamour contributor Denise Primbet.
8 Best Cleansing Oils 2025, Reviewed by Dermatologists & Testers
What Makes a Cleansing oil the best Choice in 2025?
Cleansing oils have become an essential part of skincare routines worldwide, especially for removing makeup, sunscreen, and impurities gently yet effectively. Dermatologists recommend selecting cleansing oils that balance deep cleansing with nourishing and hydrating properties, suitable for various skin types including sensitive and acne-prone skin.
Key Features to Look For in cleansing Oils:
- Non-comedogenic ingredients: Prevent pore clogging and breakouts.
- Rich in antioxidants and vitamins: Support skin barrier repair and fight free radicals.
- Lightweight yet moisturizing: Avoids greasy residue and keeps skin hydrated.
- Naturally-derived oils: Such as jojoba, squalane, or sunflower oil, favored for skin compatibility.
- Fragrance-free or hypoallergenic formulas: Ideal for sensitive skin types.
Top 8 Cleansing Oils of 2025 – Dermatologist & Tester Reviews
| Rank | Product Name | Key Ingredients | Skin Type | Dermatologist Rating | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Clinique Take The Day Off Cleansing Oil | Grapeseed Oil, Apricot Kernel oil | All skin types, especially sensitive | 9.5/10 | $$ |
| 2 | Shu Uemura Ultime8 Sublime Beauty Cleansing Oil | Camellia Oil, Tamarind Seed Oil | Dry to normal skin | 9.3/10 | $$$$ |
| 3 | DHC Deep Cleansing Oil | Olive Oil, Rosemary Extract | All skin types, especially combination | 9.1/10 | $$ |
| 4 | Dr. Jart+ Dermaclear Micro Cleansing Oil | Squalane, Macadamia Nut Oil | Normal to dry skin | 8.9/10 | $$$ |
| 5 | Caudalie Makeup Removing Cleansing Oil | Sweet Almond Oil, Grape Seed Oil | All skin types | 8.7/10 | $$$ |
| 6 | Banila Co Clean It Zero Cleansing Balm (Oil-Inspired) | Mangosteen Extract, Papaya Enzymes | Sensitive and acne-prone | 8.6/10 | $$ |
| 7 | Kose Softymo Speedy Cleansing Oil | Saflower Seed Oil, Jojoba Oil | oily to combination | 8.3/10 | $ |
| 8 | Fresh Seaberry Moisturizing face Oil Cleanser | Seaberry Oil, Rosemary Leaf Extract | Dry and sensitive skin | 8.1/10 | $$$ |
Dermatologists’ Insights on Cleansing Oils
According to skin experts,cleansing oils are highly effective at dissolving makeup and protecting the skin’s natural lipid barrier. The oil-based formula emulsifies with water, lifting impurities without stripping the skin’s moisture.Dermatologists emphasize using oils with gentle, non-irritating ingredients to prevent dryness or breakouts, especially for acne-prone or sensitive skin.
Why Dermatologists Recommend Cleansing Oils:
- Efficient removal of long-wearing sunscreens and waterproof makeup.
- Maintains skin hydration by not disrupting the acid mantle.
- Supports skin conditions such as eczema and rosacea due to its gentle nature.
- Helps balance natural sebum production, preventing excess oiliness.
Practical Tips for Using Cleansing oils for Optimal Results
- Start with dry hands and face: Apply 2-3 pumps of oil directly and massage gently for 1-2 minutes.
- Add water to emulsify: Once emulsified into a milky texture, rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water.
- Double cleanse for extra clean skin: Follow with a gentle water-based cleanser if you have oily or acne-prone skin.
- pat dry with a soft towel: Avoid rubbing to prevent irritation.
- Use daily: Most cleansing oils are safe and beneficial for morning and night routines.
First-Hand Tester Experiences with 2025’s Top Cleansing Oils
Case Study 1: Sensitive Skin Transformation
“I was hesitant to try an oil cleanser due to my sensitive, acne-prone skin, but Clinique’s Take The Day Off Cleansing Oil was a game-changer.It removed my makeup flawlessly without irritation or breakouts. My skin felt soft and hydrated after every wash.” – Emma G., tester
Case Study 2: Dry Skin hydration Boost
“Shu Uemura’s Ultime8 Sublime Beauty Cleansing Oil gave my dry skin lasting moisture. Unlike typical cleansers that left my face taut, this oil nourished deeply and made my skin glow.” – Lucas M., tester
Benefits of Using Cleansing Oils for all Skin Types
- deeply cleanses without stripping natural oils.
- Hydrates and softens the skin, leaving it supple.
- Effective makeup and sunscreen remover.
- Improves skin texture and brightness over time.
- Reduces irritation commonly caused by harsher cleansers.
FAQ About Cleansing Oils
Are cleansing oils suitable for oily or acne-prone skin?
Yes. Many cleansing oils are formulated as non-comedogenic and help dissolve excess sebum, dirt, and makeup without clogging pores. look for lightweight, balanced oils such as jojoba or squalane.
Can I use cleansing oils daily?
absolutely. Cleansing oils are gentle enough for daily use, both morning and night, especially when you rinse thoroughly.
Do cleansing oils leave an oily residue?
No, when used properly and emulsified with water, cleansing oils rinse off cleanly leaving no greasy feeling.
what’s the difference between a cleansing oil and a cleansing balm?
Cleansing oils are liquid and easily spreadable, while balms are solid but melt into an oil upon contact with skin. Both effectively remove makeup but you might prefer one texture over the other.
