What is the difference?
| Feature | Cleansing oil | Face wash |
|---|---|---|
| Main role | Removes oily residue, excess skin oil and waterproof makeup or sunscreen. | Removes sweat and dirt. |
| Formula and texture | Oil based. | Water based; cream and foaming options are available. |
| Place in a double cleanse | First, then rinse. | Second, then rinse and pat dry. |
| Price | Prices vary; there is no fixed category price advantage. | Prices vary; expensive cleansers can have ingredients similar to cheaper ones. |
Face wash does not remove only sweat and dirt. Cleansers contain surfactants, cleaning ingredients with one part that grips oil and dirt and another that lets water wash them away. Water alone cannot fully remove dirt that sticks to skin through oil. The whole formula matters more than whether the bottle calls itself an oil, gel or cream.2
Which should you choose?
- For waterproof makeup or sunscreen, consider cleansing oil followed by a gentle face wash.
- For dry or sensitive skin, choose a gentle cleanser without fragrance; cream cleansers are less drying than foaming ones.
- For oily or combination skin, a water based foaming cleanser is an option.
- For skin prone to acne, use caution with cleansing oil, particularly alone, because it can cause breakouts.
One thorough cleanse is enough for most people, so the second bottle does not get a job just because it is standing there.1
How to use cleansing oil and face wash together
- 1Gently massage cleansing oil into your skin to loosen makeup, skin oil and sunscreen residue.
- 2Rinse with lukewarm water, not hot water.
- 3Leave your face damp and gently massage in the water based cleanser.
- 4Rinse thoroughly and pat dry with a soft towel.
Apply skin medication or treatment after cleansing, followed by moisturizer and sunscreen as appropriate. Makeup goes last. Using more products can irritate skin, especially when several are anti aging treatments; the bathroom shelf is not a checklist.3
How often should you cleanse?
Most people should wash in the morning and evening. For dry or sensitive skin, try water alone in the morning and cleanser at night. If you wash only once a day, choose the evening, after the day's buildup. Oily skin prone to acne generally needs cleanser twice daily, with an extra wash sometimes needed after vigorous exercise.4
There is no universal washing duration, so a social media stopwatch does not become part of the plumbing. Cleansing time depends on your skin, cleanser and activity level. Washing in the shower counts just as much as washing at the sink. Removing makeup is a reason to consider two steps, not a reason to double cleanse every morning and night.4
What if cleansing leaves your skin uncomfortable?
Overwashing removes natural oils and can leave skin dry. If washing causes dryness or irritation, change to a gentler cleanser rather than adding more washing. Cleansers can also cause stinging, itching, redness or swelling. Be careful with acne cleansers alongside acne treatments left on the skin: too much treatment can cause excessive dryness and irritation. Speak with a dermatologist if you have concerns about caring for your skin.234
Where this answer comes from
- 1Double Cleansing Method Explainedhealth.clevelandclinic.org
- 2Soaps and cleansersdermnetnz.org
- 3Should I apply my skin care products in a certain order?aad.org
- 4How Often Should You Wash Your Face?health.clevelandclinic.org
