Best Cleansing Oils for Every Skin Type (2025) – Oil Cleansing Method Guide

Human written by Dr. Heather Smith. Links are non-affiliate.

Are you trying to figure out what oil to use for oil cleansing?

The oil cleansing method is popular for a reason — it gently removes makeup, sunscreen, and sebum without stripping your skin. But what’s the best cleansing oil for your face? 

In this guide, we’ll rank the top natural oils for oil cleansing and explain how to choose the right one for your skin type. We've done extensive research on various oils and their properties to help you find the perfect match.

Quick Picks: Best Cleansing Oils (At-a-Glance)

Looking for the best cleansing oil or oil cleanser for your face? These are our top-rated picks based on skin type, cleansing power, and price. Scroll down for detailed reviews, how to oil cleanse, and a DIY recipe.

• Best Overall: Grapeseed + Castor Oil Blend
• Best for Acne-Prone Skin: Grapeseed or Passionfruit Oil
• Best for Sensitive Skin: Sunflower or Sweet Almond Oil

What is the Oil Cleansing Method?

Oil cleansing works by dissolving excess sebum (the natural oil our skin produces) along with dirt, stubborn makeup, and other impurities that can clog pores and cause breakouts. 

This method relies on the principle of 'like dissolves like,' meaning that oil can effectively dissolve excess sebum, makeup, and other debris present on the skin's surface without stripping it of its natural moisture barrier.

Oil cleansing has gained popularity in recent years due to its gentleness on the skin compared to traditional cleansers, which may contain harsh surfactants. It's also especially effective at removing oil-soluble material like sunscreen and makeup, so it's a great approach.

For some people, the skin will feel too oily or just not "washed" enough. The simple solution to this problem is to do a 2-step cleanse.

Single vs. double cleansing with oils

Single oil cleansing is simple! Simply massages a small amount onto dry skin for about 30 seconds to a minute before gently wiping off with a warm damp cloth. The warmth of the water and the wiping with a cloth will remove most of the oil and impurities. 

In contrast, a two-step oil cleanse involves first using a dedicated cleansing oil or balm followed by a traditional, water-based cleanser. This approach is best for those who wear very heavy makeup or have oily skin as it ensures a more thorough removal of the excess oil. 

The risk of a 2-step cleanse is the same as general cleansing with water-based products - overwashing, over-exfoliating, stripping your natural oils, and leaving the skin too depleted. Once skin barrier damage occurs, the pH balance of your acid mantle becomes disrupted, and the healing phase can take a while.

Best Oils for Oil Cleansing (Top 10 Reviewed)

1. Castor Oil: Castor oil is a powerful cleansing agent thanks to its high ricinoleic acid content (85-95%). This unique monounsaturated fatty acid enables the oil to penetrate deeply into the pores, effectively dissolving and removing impurities. In addition, castor oil exhibits mild astringent properties, helping to tighten the skin and remove excess oils. This is a very cost-effective oil to use.
2. Grapeseed Oil: Grapeseed oil is a popular light cleansing oil, particularly well-suited for oily and acne-prone skin types. Its high linoleic acid content (70-76%) helps to balance the skin's natural oils without clogging pores. Moreover, grapeseed oil acts as a mild astringent and toner due to its polyphenol content, contributing to tighter, toned skin.
3. Sunflower Seed Oil: Sunflower seed oil is rich in linoleic acid (59%), oleic acid (30%), and stearic acid (6%). Its fatty acid composition helps balance sebum production while maintaining the skin's barrier function. Although sunflower seed oil does not have notable astringent or toning properties, its cleansing abilities and cost-effectiveness make it a suitable choice. This is another very gentle cleansing oil option for people with sensitive or irritable skin.
4. Sweet Almond Oil: Sweet almond oil, with its high oleic acid (62-86%) and linoleic acid (20-30%) content, is beneficial for skin health. This mild oil is suitable for sensitive skin types. While not specifically astringent or toning, sweet almond oil adds to the luxury of your cleansing product because of its delicate aroma.
5. Sour Cherry Oil: Sour cherry oil is rich in oleic acid, linoleic acid, and antioxidants. Sour cherry oil's antioxidants contribute to overall skin health and brightness. This is another oil that is reasonably priced to use and also smells great.
6. Baobab Oil: Baobab oil contains high levels of oleic acid (30-40%), linoleic acid (24-34%), and palmitic acid (18-30%). It has a light and nutty aroma and a very luxurious skin feel.
7. Hibiscus Oil: While hibiscus oil is not commonly used for its cleansing properties, it is rich in antioxidants, particularly anthocyanins, which can help protect and nourish the skin. Its unique composition may provide some toning benefits, but it is not considered one of the astringent oils. This is a luxury addition often chosen for its subtle aroma and delicate texture.
8. Passionfruit Oil: Passionfruit oil, also known as maracuja oil, is high in linoleic acid (77%), making it an effective cleanser for oily and acne-prone skin types. This is another one of my favourites due to its aroma!
9. Hazelnut Oil: Hazelnut oil is a versatile option for the oil cleansing method, thanks to its high concentration of tannins, which impart strong astringent properties. These properties help to tighten the skin, reduce pore size, and balance oil production. Hazelnut oil also contains oleic acid (75-85%) and linoleic acid (9-13%), which contribute to its cleansing properties.
10. Jojoba Oil: Jojoba oil, which is technically a liquid wax ester and not a true oil, is often praised for its compatibility with the skin's natural sebum. Its molecular structure and composition are similar to human sebum, primarily composed of triglycerides and wax monoesters. Regarding cleansing, jojoba oil's unique structure offers some notable benefits. Its waxy nature effectively dissolves sebum and impurities that have hardened and lodged within pores. As a result, it can unclog pores and remove dirt and makeup, making it an excellent choice for an affordable cleansing oil.

Why Not Coconut Oil for Cleansing?

This oil has some potential; there's no reason to stop using it if it's been working for you. However, it's not one of our favourite cleansing oils.

Coconut oil has a high percentage of lauric acid (45-53%), a medium-chain fatty acid known for its antimicrobial properties, which may help manage acne-causing bacteria on the skin. However, coconut oil is also high on the comedogenic scale, meaning it can clog pores and cause breakouts in some individuals.

Oil Cleanser Shopping Guide

If you decide to take a simple or DIY approach, we've got you covered in the above top 10 list. However, if you're shopping for something from one of your favourite brands, consider these key points:

What are the main oils used?

The main ingredients should include at least some of the top 10 oils. And watch out for the controversial ones like coconut.

Are there essential oils or added extracts?

Some cleansing oils include essential oils or botanical extracts for added benefits. If you have sensitive skin, avoid these unless you're confident your skin can tolerate them.

Some oil cleansers include essential oils and plant extracts to enhance their benefits. Citrus oils like lemon, grapefruit, and bergamot offer mild astringent effects and contain terpenes (like limonene) with antimicrobial properties. Phenols in oils like thyme (e.g., thymol) add antibacterial action. Since cleansing oils are rinsed off, photosensitivity risks from essential oils are much lower than with leave-on products — more info here.

Botanical actives can also support clearer skin. Willow bark extract, a natural source of salicylic acid (BHA), helps unclog pores and reduce acne. Green tea extract provides antioxidant protection and may help reduce sebum. Some formulas even include fruit enzymes like bromelain or papain for mild exfoliation, though they require specific formulation to be effective in oil-based products.

Are the oils all-natural or synthetic?

When it comes to oil cleansing, plant-based oils are the clear winners. They offer nourishing benefits, antioxidant activity, and skin compatibility that synthetics can’t match.

Silicones, while common in cosmetics, aren’t typically used in oil cleansing. They don’t clog pores, but they also don’t nourish the skin—and their potential for environmental bioaccumulation makes them less appealing in natural skincare.

Mineral oil, derived from petroleum, can dissolve sebum and makeup but lacks antioxidant or skin-beneficial properties. Given the environmental concerns tied to fossil fuel production, we don’t recommend it—especially when botanical oils offer so much more.

Do you need an oil cleanser that contains emulsifiers?

Emulsifiers are additives that help mix oil and water, leading to a product that can more easily be rinsed off with water.

Using an emulsifying oil cleanser can make oil cleansing more convenient and accessible, especially for those who don't like the feel of pure oils on their skin.

If you find oil cleansing leaves a greasy residue, but is easily dried out and don't need a full-on 2-step to cleanse with a surfactant, then try a gentle, self-emulsifying oil cleanser to see if it's the right balance for your skin.

How much do you want to spend?

A quick Google search and I was able to find oil cleansing products that were over $110/3 oz. Watch the ingredient list and make sure you aren't just paying for the brand-name and beautiful packaging. 

Is Oil Cleansing Suitable for Acne-Prone or Oily Skin?

Scientifically speaking, oil cleansing can be beneficial for acne-prone skin as it helps dissolve excess sebum and impurities without stripping the skin of its natural oils. This balance assists in preventing the overproduction of sebum, which can result in less acne overall.

When selecting an oil cleanser for acne-prone skin, opt for non-comedogenic oils such as sunflower seed oil or hemp seed oil that won't clog pores or exacerbate existing breakouts.

If your skin is quite oily, you will likely benefit most from double cleansing.

Best Oil Cleansers for Acne-Prone Skin

If you're prone to breakouts, use oils high in linoleic acid like grapeseed, passionfruit, or sunflower seed oil. These oils won’t clog pores and actually help balance sebum production. Avoid comedogenic oils like coconut. Always consider double cleansing if you wear SPF or makeup.

What About Sensitive Skin?

The oil cleansing approach is one of the most gentle and protective ways to remove impurities while leaving the skin protected. It results in easy makeup removal and soft skin. If you're building a beauty routine for sensitive skin, including oil cleansing is key. The gentleness and lack of stripping makes oil cleansing important for natural anti-aging routines as well. 

Definitely stay away from fragrance, most essential oils, and other potentially irritating additives if your skin is sensitive.

DIY Homemade Oil Cleanser Recipe

Here is a cost-effective as well as actually effective DIY recipe for an at-home oil cleanser:

10g Hazelnut oil

You can add 1-2 drops of your favourite essential oil if you know you aren't prone to skin reactions. Combined with the passionfruit, this will make your cleansing oil smell lovely.

Conclusion

Oil cleansing is a gentle, natural, and effective way to remove makeup and impurities without stripping your skin of its natural protective lipid barrier. Just make sure you're choosing the right oil for your skin type and following proper moisturizing steps.

Remember that everyone's skin is different, so it may take some trial and error to find what works best for you. Performing a 2-step cleanse is great for many people, but don't choose too harsh a soap; otherwise, you'll lose the benefits of the oil cleansing portion.

Oil Cleansing FAQ

What is oil cleansing, and how does it work?

Oil cleansing is a skincare method that uses oils to dissolve and remove excess sebum, sunscreen, dirt, and makeup. It works on the principle of “like dissolves like,” effectively cleaning the skin without disrupting its moisture barrier.

What is the best oil for oil cleansing?

The best oil depends on your skin type. Grapeseed oil and castor oil are top picks for most people. Passionfruit and sunflower oil are great for acne-prone skin, while sweet almond and grapeseed work well for sensitive skin.

Which oils can be used for oil cleansing?

Common oils for cleansing include castor, grapeseed, sunflower, jojoba, almond, and hazelnut. You can blend your own based on skin type. Avoid highly comedogenic oils like coconut if you're acne-prone.

What is the best cleansing oil for oily or acne-prone skin?

Oils high in linoleic acid are best for oily or acne-prone skin. Try grapeseed, passionfruit, sunflower, or hemp seed oil. These help dissolve excess sebum without clogging pores.

Can oil cleansing clog pores or cause breakouts?

Not usually. In fact, it often helps reduce breakouts by balancing oil production. However, using a pore-clogging oil or skipping the rinse can lead to congestion in some people.

Is coconut oil good for cleansing your face?

Coconut oil can work for some, but it has a high comedogenic rating and may cause breakouts. If you're acne-prone or sensitive, choose a non-comedogenic oil instead.

References

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Walters RM, Mao G, Gunn ET, Hornby S. Cleansing formulations that respect skin barrier integrity. Dermatol Res Pract. 2012;2012:495917. doi: 10.1155/2012/495917. Epub 2012 Aug 13. PMID: 22927835; PMCID: PMC3425021.

Mukhopadhyay P. Cleansers and their role in various dermatological disorders. Indian J Dermatol. 2011 Jan;56(1):2-6. doi: 10.4103/0019-5154.77542. PMID: 21572782; PMCID: PMC3088928.

Hosokawa K, Taima H, Kikuchi M, Tsuda H, Numano K, Takagi Y. Rubbing the skin when removing makeup cosmetics is a major factor that worsens skin conditions in atopic dermatitis patients. J Cosmet Dermatol. 2021 Jun;20(6):1915-1922. doi: 10.1111/jocd.13777. Epub 2020 Oct 26. PMID: 33040474.