How to use cleansing oil properly

How to apply and rinse cleansing oil

1. 1Start dry. Put one to two pumps into dry palms and apply to your dry face.
2. 2Massage gently. Use circular motions across your face for 30 to 60 seconds, including your forehead, nose and jawline.
3. 3Add water gradually. Wet your hands with a little lukewarm water, then massage for another 15 to 20 seconds. The oil should become milky throughout.
4. 4Rinse thoroughly. Use lukewarm water until the milky residue is gone. Your skin should not feel slippery or tight.

These massage times are a practical starting point, not a universal face washing rule. There is no standard washing duration for every cleanser and skin type.3

What if the oil stays greasy?

Adding water creates an oil and water mixture that rinses away, a process called emulsification. If the cleanser still looks transparent or oily, add a little more water and continue massaging before rinsing. Starting on wet skin triggers this process before the oil has dissolved the buildup. Skipping it can leave an oily film.1

Do you need another cleanser afterwards?

A gentle water based cleanser after cleansing oil can help remove waterproof makeup and waterproof sunscreen. The oil removes oily residue; the water based cleanser removes sweat and dirt. If you use both, leave your face damp after rinsing the oil, gently apply the second cleanser, rinse, then pat dry with a soft towel.2

One thorough cleanse is enough for most people, even if the bathroom shelf would prefer a larger cast. If a gentle cleanser already removes what you wear, a second wash is not automatically necessary. Double cleansing is most useful for makeup that is difficult to remove, rather than as a compulsory daily ritual.2

How often should you use cleansing oil?

Keep cleansing oil for your evening cleanse rather than adding it to every wash. Most people should wash their face morning and evening, and after heavy sweating. Dry or sensitive skin can suit a morning rinse with water and a cleanser at night. If you only wash once daily, choose the evening, after the day's buildup has collected.34

Your fingertips are enough to apply cleanser, so the cleansing equipment department can stand down. Avoid scrubbing, washcloths and sponges, which can irritate skin. Use lukewarm water rather than hot water, and apply moisturizer afterwards if your skin feels dry or itchy.4

What if your skin is sensitive or acne prone?

Cleansing oil can help remove excess oil, but it can also cause breakouts in acne prone skin, especially when used alone. Choose gentle cleansers without fragrance and avoid harsh or excessively drying formulas. For dry, sensitive skin, a gentle cream cleanser is less drying than a foaming cleanser for the second wash.2

Cleansing oil removes makeup and sunscreen during washing; it is not an acne treatment with a countdown to clear skin. Acne treatment can take several weeks to a few months to show a difference. If you are treating acne, keep the cleansing step gentle and avoid adding irritating exfoliants.25

If washing leaves your skin dry or irritated, switch to a gentler cleanser rather than washing more. Overwashing can damage the skin barrier, the skin's protective outer layer. If breakouts continue despite gentle care and your acne treatment, see a dermatologist.235