How often should I use a cleansing oil?

Can I use cleansing oil every day?

As general routine guidance, daily evening use can make sense if you wear makeup or waterproof sunscreen daily and need an extra removal step. If you do not, skip the oil rather than adding it to meet a schedule.1

The usual face washing schedule is morning and evening, plus after heavy sweating; that does not mean every wash needs cleansing oil. For dry or sensitive skin, a morning rinse with water and a cleanser only at night can be enough. If you wash only once a day, make it the evening wash.23

Should I use cleansing oil before face wash?

Yes, when double cleansing, use the oil first and a water based face wash second. The oil helps remove makeup, sunscreen residue and excess skin oil. The second cleanser removes sweat and dirt.1

1. 1Apply cleansing oil with clean hands and gently massage with your fingertips. Do not scrub.
2. 2Rinse with lukewarm water, not hot water.
3. 3Leave your face damp, then gently apply the water based cleanser.
4. 4Rinse again and pat dry with a soft towel.
5. 5Apply moisturizer if your skin is dry or itchy.

How long should I massage cleansing oil on my face?

There is no standard massage time for cleansing oil. Gently massage to help break down makeup and sunscreen residue, then rinse. A full minute is not a universal requirement for face washing; the cleanser and your skin type affect how long to wash. Longer rubbing is not a substitute for gentle cleansing.123

Do I need to double cleanse after cleansing oil?

A water based cleanser is the second step if you choose double cleansing, but the whole routine is unnecessary for most people. Waterproof makeup or waterproof sunscreen makes the extra step more useful. If one gentle cleanser removes what you wear, a second wash is not a promotion to a higher tier of cleanliness.1

Who should be careful with cleansing oil?

For oily skin, a mild, gentle foaming face wash is the default choice, and oil based cleansers can irritate skin. Although an oil cleanser can help remove excess oil, it can also cause breakouts in acne prone skin, especially when used alone. Dry or sensitive skin is better served by a gentle, unscented water based cleanser; cream cleansers are less drying than foaming ones.14

Stop the irritating product or use it less often if irritation develops. Too much washing removes natural oils and can dry skin out. If you are struggling with blackheads, acne or excess oil, see a dermatologist rather than increasing your cleansing frequency.24