DHC cleansing oil: does it suit your routine?

What should a cleansing oil do?

Cleansers remove makeup, sunscreen, dirt and excess oil, which is a useful job without a more ambitious job title. Cleansing formulas use surfactants, ingredients that help loosen oily dirt and let water wash it away. A surfactant has one part that attaches to oil and another that works with water. The formula affects how the cleanser feels, lathers and rinses.4

Do you need a second cleanser?

Double cleansing means using an oil based product followed by a water based cleanser. Most skin types do not need this extra washing step. Double cleansing can help some people with very oily skin, but excessive washing can cause dryness, irritation and damage to the skin's protective barrier.1

Is it a good choice for oily skin?

For oily skin, choose a mild, gentle foaming face wash rather than an oil based or alcohol based cleanser. Both types can irritate oily skin. A harsh wash intended to strip away oil can also trigger increased oil production. Look for products labelled oil free and noncomedogenic, meaning formulated not to clog pores. Wash up to twice daily and after sweating, without scrubbing, then apply moisturizer to keep skin hydrated.3

What if you have acne or new breakouts?

For acne prone skin, use an oil free makeup remover and follow with a gentle cleanser. Choose skin care and makeup labelled oil free, won't clog pores or noncomedogenic. If a product is causing breakouts, stop using it rather than trying to compensate with more washing. Cosmetics can cause acne even in people who do not usually have it, and blemishes can take a few days to six months to appear. That delay can make the culprit difficult to identify.2

How to remove makeup if an oil cleanser is not suitable

1. 1Before bed, remove makeup, including eye makeup, with an oil free makeup remover.
2. 2Gently apply a mild cleanser with your fingertips. Avoid scrubbing, including over areas where makeup is harder to remove.
3. 3Rinse with lukewarm water and gently pat dry.
4. 4Apply moisturizer after cleansing, including if your skin is oily.

What if your skin is dry or sensitive?

Sensitive skin often stings during or just after cleansing and is more likely to be dry. Adding another wash can make dryness worse by removing the surface oils that help limit water loss. A cleanser labelled hypoallergenic can still irritate skin. Micellar water is another cleansing option for sensitive skin; an oil cleanser is not the only route to makeup removal.14

When should you stop or get help?

Stop using a product that irritates your skin. Cleansers can cause redness, dryness, itching or allergic reactions. Be especially cautious about combining a cleanser designed to treat acne with acne products left on the skin, because too much treatment can cause excessive dryness and irritation. If breakouts continue or you cannot identify which product is causing them, a dermatologist can help distinguish product related acne from other causes.234