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

by Maya Allen
Maya was an assistant editor at Byrdie for a year and a half. Currently, she serves as Marie Claire's digital beauty editor.
Updated 10/28/19

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Cleansing oil is all the rage for a reason. Double-cleansing your skin with oil is an age-old Korean beauty ritual that many credit for crystal-clear, glowy skin. An oil-based formula melts your makeup right off while nourishing and hydrating your skin. "Remember oil likes oil and can mingle with your own sebum to help remove it from the surface of your skin," facialist Julia Hart told Byrdie. These oil-, grime-, and dirt-zapping formulas also feel lovely to the touch—it's like an instant face massage.

Not all cleansing oils are created equal, but that doesn't mean they have to cost an arm and a leg. There are certain ingredients to look for that guarantee a good blend. We asked celebrity dermatologist, Dendy Engelman, MD, to share the best drugstore cleansing oils. "I am a huge proponent of double-cleansing, and an oil-based cleanser is an important part," says Engelman. We also included a few cult favorites to guide you the next time you're perusing your drugstore aisle in search of top-notch cleansing oils.

Read on for a comprehensive list of the best drugstore cleansing oils.

Best Overall: DHC Deep Cleansing Oil

"DHC Cleansing Oil is one of the original cleansing oils on the market," says Engelman. "It is very popular in Japan and is infused with olive oil and vitamin E, so it is both nourishing and hydrating. It's completely residue-free and doesn't leave a greasy feeling on the skin." It's so popular, in fact, that one bottle allegedly sells every 10 seconds. Now that's impressive.

Best for Waterproof Makeup: Simple Hydrating Cleansing Oil

simple hydrating cleansing oil

Courtesy of Amazon

Soothe your skin with this comforting blend of pure grapeseed oil and a healthy dose of vitamins A and E to remove your makeup (even waterproof!) with a side of softness that'll smooth the texture of your skin.

Want more? Check out our guide to the best cleansing oils available for purchase.

Best Natural: Burt's Bees Facial Cleansing Oil

Using argan and coconut oil, this nourishing cleanser leaves your skin silky smooth and replenished with antioxidants. It thoroughly removes any signs of makeup without greasy residue.

Best for Sensitive Skin: Avène XeraCalm A.D. Lipid-Replenishing Cleansing Oil

Avène XeraCalm A.D. Lipid-Replenishing Cleansing Oil

Courtesy of Dermstore

"This is a soap- and fragrance-free formula that gently cleanses your face without irritation," explains Engelman. "I especially like this brand for people with sensitive skin or if suffering from atopic dermatitis."

Read reviews and shop for the best micellar waters on the market.

Runner-Up, Best for Sensitive Skin: SheaMoisture Peace Rose Oil Complex Cleansing Oil

SheaMoisture Peace Rose Oil Complex Cleansing Oil

Courtesy of SheaMoisture

With a nutritious blend of pure shea butter, alpine, damask, and musk rose oils, this silky consistency turns into a creamy emulsion once it hits water and your face. It washes away makeup and spoils your skin with nourishing ingredients.

For more options, take a look at our best makeup removers for sensitive skin article.

Best Lightweight: Neutrogena Ultra Light Cleansing Oil

If you're looking for something on the lighter side, this oil-based cleanser gets the job done. It uses a combination of fine oils to trap all the dirt and grime off your skin and will make it feel pillow-soft.

Take a look at our picks of the best drugstore face washes for more options.

Best for Eye Contour: Palmer's Skin Therapy Cleansing Face Oil

With harsher cleansers, it's instructed to keep them far away from your eyes to avoid irritation. This gentle formula uses pure cleansing oils, cocoa butter, and vitamin C, so it's ideal for cleansing sensitive areas on your skin like your eye area. Just massage this onto your skin and emulsify the formula with water.

Read reviews and shop for the best eye makeup removers that actually work.

Best for Dry Skin: Derma E Nourishing Rose Cleansing Oil

Nourishing Rose Cleansing Oil

Courtesy of Derma E

This silky texture uses natural ingredients—rose, argan, and jojoba oil—to deeply nourish your skin while taking away every trace of makeup. If you have dry skin, try this super-hydrating blend.

Check out our guide to the best makeup removers that won't strip your skin.

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