If You've Never Tried a Cleansing Oil, Start With These 9 Drugstore Versions

Final Verdict

As a cult cleansing oil, you can’t go wrong with antioxidant-packed DHC Deep Cleansing Oil (view at Amazon). If you are still hesitant to try double cleansing from fear of getting acne, consider Mad Hippie’s Cleansing Oil (view at Ulta) for a non-comedogenic, scar fading solution. Or if you need an ultra-gentle and hydrating blend for your skin, check out Bioderma Atoderm Cleansing Oil (view Dermstore).

What to Look for When Buying a Drugstore Cleansing Oil

Ingredients

With today’s oil obsession, there are so many different oils to choose from when you want to get clean. But not all oils are created equal—choosing the right one or blend of oils depends on your skin type. 

For those worried about acne or clogging their pores, Dr. Russak recommends jojoba oil for its anti-inflammatory properties. Mimicking the skin’s natural sebum or oil, jojoba oil won’t clog your pores either.

If your skin is on the drier side, Dr. Russak recommends squalane. “I love squalane. It really hydrates the skin and removes the debris and pollutants,” says Dr. Russak. “It’s really gentle for the microbiome.”

Dr. Mariwalla also has some favorite oils for cleansing. “I think a marula oil is great or a coconut or jojoba oil because they are most similar to your skin lipids,” says Dr. Mariwalla. “I advise avoiding olive oil as that can lead to Seborrheic dermatitis (dandruff) in some people.”

Quality

While it’s easy to purchase generic oils online or at the drugstore, both dermatologists recommend going for reputable brands that follow cosmetic standards when making their formulas. “Source is key,” says Dr. Mariwalla. “I think this is when you want to go with well-known brands that are manufactured in large facilities with consistent quality control.”

Look for cold-pressed, unrefined, virgin oils and stay away from food-grade ones. That Trader Joe’s bottle of Extra Virgin Olive Oil isn’t made for the skin. If you are looking for organic, vegan, or cruelty-free formulas, double-check the packaging for certifications like USDA organic, Leaping Bunny or Vegan Certified.

Consistency

Depending on your skin type, you might want a thicker, rich oil for your dry skin or a lightweight, non-greasy formula for oily and acne-prone skin. You also want to think about your lifestyle. If you travel frequently, a cleansing balm that melts into oil may be an ideal choice for mess-free packing.

FAQs

What are the benefits of using a drugstore cleansing oil?

It may sound counterintuitive—using oil to clean your skin—but starting your cleansing routine with oil is one of the best ways to remove makeup, sunscreen, and sweat. “Using a cleansing oil will break down and remove your makeup and excess dirt and oil from the day, allowing your everyday cleanser to better do its job—which should target specific skin concerns like acne or dryness,” says Dr.Mariwalla. 

Unlike water, which repels oil, oil attracts oil, pulling all the grime off your skin like a magnet. At the same time, the oil moisturizes and nourishes the skin rather than stripping it of moisture as some traditional cleansers do.

“The problem with soaps is that they strip the skin of natural oils, and oils protect the top layer of skin. We need oil to prevent dryness and prevent things from coming into the skin,” says Dr. Russak. “If you have oily skin, it may be overcompensating for the lack of moisture.”

Even if you have oily skin, you can use a drugstore cleansing oil without fear of breakouts or clogged pores. You just have to choose the right non-comedogenic oil and follow up with a cleanser to ensure you remove any leftover residue.

How do you use drugstore cleansing oils?

To kick off your cleansing routine, you actually want to start with a dry face and hands, as this will allow the oil to really dissolve the dirt without any water getting in the way. Pour a bit of the oil into your hands and start massaging it into your face.

“I recommend using a cleansing oil like your normal face wash. Apply the cleansing oil in circular motions and then rinse,” says Dr. Mariwalla. Once you have a clean palette, you can go in with the targeted cleanser of your choice to address your skin issues, whether it’s anti-aging or acne. Removing any residue also ensures that whatever products you apply afterward will be fully absorbed by your skin. 

How often should you use a drugstore cleansing oil?

While some people may enjoy double cleansing morning and night, Dr. Russak and Dr. Mariwalla agree it’s ideal before bed, when you need to remove all the pollution that has been piling up. “I think this is a good thing to do in the summer if you are using mineral sunscreen since those are often difficult to remove and completely cleanse off the skin,” says Dr. Mariwalla.

You should always wear sunscreen, but you may not wear makeup each day. In that case, Dr. Russak says it’s fine to double cleanse only a few times a week when your skin and mind really need to detox. “I love using Erno Laszlo Double Cleanse on the weekends,” says Dr. Russak. “The extra step feels like an indulgence and a mental break.”

Why Trust Byrdie?

Byrdie contributor, Emily Cieslak, consulted two dermatologists and studies when writing this article. As someone who has dealt with acne and eczema herself, Cieslak has done extensive research in finding products that will keep her breakouts at bay and her skin moisturized. She’s discovered jojoba oil as the best way to remove stubborn makeup and has never looked back.