Why You Should Try An Oil Cleanser—No Matter Your Skin Type

Oil cleansing may be an ancient practice dating back to Traditional Chinese Medicine and Ayurveda some 2,000 years ago and counting, but it’s really hitting its stride lately.

It may sound counterintuitive, especially if you have oily or acne-prone skin—what, we’re going to slather even more oil onto our face? Sounds like a recipe for an insane breakout.

However, instead of clogging our pores, it does just the opposite.

It helps to break down stubborn, sticky SPF residue and makeup. Oil cleansing can dissolve grit from the environment, as well as excess sebum that causes blackheads and filaments in our T-zone. It also warms up the skin, increases circulation, and loosens up blockages in the pores.

Oil cleansing can also help protect skin’s lipid layer and the “good” bacteria that live there. Recent research suggests that these bacteria may help protect against acne.

We typically do a double cleanse, meaning we oil cleanse first and use a gentle, water-based cleanser second. This helps to remove any lingering residue.

How to oil cleanse:

1. Start with a dry face.
2. Apply oil to clean, dry hands and warm it up between them.
3. Press oil onto your face and neck, massaging in upward strokes.
4. Then massage in circular motions, focusing on areas that are prone to congestion.
5. Use a damp, warm washcloth to gently wipe away the oil. This is where the makeup-removing magic happens.
6. If you’re double-cleansing, follow with a gentle, water-based cleanser.
7. Rinse and pat your face dry.

Shop our favorite oil cleansers below.

This cult favorite is great for every skin type, any age, any time. The base is jojoba oil, which mimics skin’s natural sebum and helps signal to your skin that you don’t need to produce any more. Since overproducing sebum can cause acne, jojoba oil can be a good option for those with break-prone skin.

We especially love seabuckthorn for aging skin because it repairs oxidative damage, is plumping, and promotes elasticity. Even better? This oil does double-duty as both a cleanser and a face oil.

Packed with silver ear mushroom (an all-natural alternative to hyaluronic acid) and antioxidant-rich ingredients, this oil nourishes, cleanses, and hydrates skin.

The content provided in this article is provided for information purposes only and is not a substitute for professional advice and consultation, including professional medical advice and consultation; it is provided with the understanding that Poosh, LLC (“Poosh”) is not engaged in the provision or rendering of medical advice or services. You understand and agree that Poosh shall not be liable for any claim, loss, or damage arising out of the use of, or reliance upon any content or information in the article.

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