Best facial cleansing oil: DHC for deep makeup, La Roche-Posay for sensitive skin.
I have stood at the sink after a long day with mascara on and grit in my pores. A good oil removes makeup and grime without stripping skin. I look for slip, gentle surfactants, and rinseability. The best facial cleansing oil soothes, melts waterproof makeup, and leaves skin soft. In this guide I compare textures, scent, and value so you can pick the best facial cleansing oil for your needs. I test for residue, breakouts, and hydration. If you want a fast, skin-friendly clean, this roundup of the best facial cleansing oil helps you choose with confidence and care.
La Roche-Posay Lipikar Cleansing Oil
Product Overview
La Roche-Posay Lipikar AP+ Gentle Foaming Cleansing Oil works for face and body. It uses niacinamide and gentle surfactants to calm skin. The formula foams lightly when mixed with water for an easy rinse. It is fragrance and soap free to cut irritation. This oil cleans makeup and daily grime without leaving a greasy film. I found hydration lasts after use, and it pairs well with lotion.
This cleansing oil suits sensitive skin and those who need relief from dryness. It acts as the best facial cleansing oil for reactive skin, offering a mild, reliable clean with long lasting comfort and low irritation.
Advantages
- Fragrance-free and soap-free
- Contains niacinamide for calming
- Foams lightly for easy rinse
- Good for face and body use
- Leaves skin hydrated, not tight
Limitations
- Higher price than drugstore oils
- May foam less with very hard water
- Pump can dispense too much product
Our Verdict
I recommend this as the best facial cleansing oil for sensitive and dry skin. It gently removes makeup while calming redness and supporting moisture. It’s ideal for users who want a mild, fragrance-free option with proven soothing ingredients and good value over time.
Best For
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| Sensitive skin | Fragrance-free and niacinamide soothes irritation |
| Daily cleansing | Light foam rinses easily without residue |
| Body & face use | Multipurpose formula saves time and cost |
Anua Heartleaf Pore Control Oil
Product Overview
Anua Heartleaf Pore Control Cleansing Oil blends light oils with heartleaf extract to calm and clear pores. It melts makeup and blackheads without harsh rubbing. I like its lightweight feel that rinses clean and leaves skin balanced. The formula targets excess oil and soothes inflammation for acne-prone types.
This oil stands out as a gentle pore-focused choice and makes a solid pick for the best facial cleansing oil for oily, combination, or breakout-prone skin. It removes sunscreen and makeup while supporting clearer pores and less shine when used in a double cleanse routine.
Advantages
- Lightweight, non-greasy finish
- Heartleaf extract calms inflammation
- Effective at dissolving makeup
- Helps reduce pore congestion
- Large 200ml size for value
Limitations
- Scent may not suit everyone
- Not ideal for very dry skin
- Bottle can be slippery in shower
Our Verdict
This is best for oily or acne-prone skin seeking the best facial cleansing oil. I find it removes impurities while calming pores. It offers good value and works well as part of a double cleansing routine for clearer skin.
Best For
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| Oily or combination skin | Heartleaf helps control oil and calm pores |
| Blackhead care | Light oils dissolve sebum without stripping |
| Daily double cleanse | Rinses clean ahead of water-based wash |
Palmer’s Cocoa Butter Cleansing Oil
Product Overview
Palmer’s Cocoa Butter Formula Skin Therapy Cleansing Oil pairs rosehip oil and vitamin C to remove makeup while giving skin a nourishing feel. It melts foundation and sunscreen and helps brighten with vitamin C. The scent is mild cocoa butter, which many find comforting. It rinses clean with a soft finish.
This oil is a solid, budget-friendly option and rates among the best facial cleansing oil picks for those who want extra nourishment. I found it effective for dry or normal skin and a pleasant way to remove makeup while supporting skin tone and softness.
Advantages
- Contains rosehip oil and vitamin C
- Pleasant cocoa butter scent
- Good value for size
- Melts makeup and sunscreen well
- Leaves skin soft after use
Limitations
- Scent may be too strong for sensitive noses
- Vitamin C stability may vary
- May feel heavy on oily skin
Our Verdict
I recommend Palmer’s for dry to normal skin seeking the best facial cleansing oil on a budget. It removes makeup and adds nourishment. The scent and emollients make it a comfort pick with good overall value.
Best For
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| Dry or normal skin | Emollient oils restore softness |
| Makeup removal | Melts foundation and sunscreen easily |
| Budget buyers | Large size with good ingredients |
DHC Deep Cleansing Oil (6.7 oz)
Product Overview
DHC Deep Cleansing Oil is a cult favorite made from olive oil and vitamin E. It dissolves waterproof makeup and sunscreen without clogging pores. The formula is fragrance and colorant free, which keeps irritation low. I noticed it emulsifies easily and rinses with no oily residue.
This product often tops lists as the best facial cleansing oil for removing heavy makeup and for all skin types. It balances deep cleansing with gentleness, which is why I recommend it for daily use if you want a reliable, residue-free oil cleanser.
Advantages
- Fragrance and colorant free
- Olive oil base is nourishing
- Melts waterproof makeup easily
- Emulsifies and rinses clean
- Low irritation for sensitive skin
Limitations
- Higher price point for some budgets
- Olive scent may be noticeable
- Pump size can be bulky for travel
Our Verdict
I recommend DHC Deep Cleansing Oil as the best facial cleansing oil for heavy makeup wearers and those who want a gentle, effective clean. It balances power and mildness and offers strong value for a daily, reliable oil cleanser.
Best For
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| Waterproof makeup | Powerful olive oil base dissolves stubborn products |
| Sensitive skin | Free of fragrance and colorants |
| Daily use | Emulsifies and rinses clean each time |
SKIN1004 Centella Light Cleansing Oil
Product Overview
SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Light Cleansing Oil uses centella asiatica to soothe and repair the skin barrier. It has a light texture that dissolves makeup and impurities without heaviness. I enjoyed how calm my skin felt after rinsing and how it paired well with serums.
This cleansing oil is a top contender for the best facial cleansing oil for sensitive, reactive, or acne-prone skin. It offers good slip to remove makeup while supporting redness reduction and barrier recovery with centella benefits.
Advantages
- Contains centella to soothe skin
- Light texture, non-greasy
- Removes makeup efficiently
- Gentle on reactive skin
- Pairs well with treatment serums
Limitations
- Limited brightening effect
- Bottle design can be fiddly
- May feel thin for very dry skin
Our Verdict
I recommend SKIN1004 for those who want the best facial cleansing oil for sensitive and acne-prone skin. It cleans without aggravating redness and supports barrier repair. It’s a great daily step before treatments.
Best For
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| Reactive skin | Centella soothes and calms |
| Combination skin | Light finish avoids excess oil |
| Double cleansing | Preps skin for treatments |
COSNORI 7-Complex Micro Oil
Product Overview
COSNORI 7-Complex Micro Active Cleansing Oil uses a fermented blend of seven oils for a lightweight, vegan clean. It removes makeup and dissolves sebum while leaving a fresh finish. The formula is hypoallergenic and aims for minimal irritation. I liked how the oil felt balanced and not heavy.
For those hunting the best facial cleansing oil with a modern, fermented oil blend, COSNORI offers a bright, light option. It appeals to people who want a silky texture and a clean rinse without tightness or residue.
Advantages
- 7-oil fermented complex
- Vegan and hypoallergenic
- Light, fresh finish
- Effective at makeup removal
- Minimal residue after rinsing
Limitations
- Higher price for niche formula
- May be too light for heavy makeup
- Scent profile may vary
Our Verdict
I recommend COSNORI as the best facial cleansing oil for those seeking a lightweight, vegan formula. It balances modern ingredients and a clean finish. It’s ideal for daily makeup removal and gentle skin maintenance.
Best For
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| Vegan users | Plant-based, fermented oils |
| Light makeup | Fresh, non-greasy finish |
| Hypoallergenic needs | Gentle formula minimizes irritation |
DHC Cleansing Oil Kit (6.7 & 1 oz)
Product Overview
DHC Deep Cleansing Oil and Travel Size set pairs the classic olive oil cleanser with a compact 1 oz bottle for travel. The main oil removes makeup and sunscreen thoroughly, while the travel size keeps routines consistent on trips. I appreciate the kit for convenience and consistent performance.
This combo is one of the best facial cleansing oil options for travelers and fans of DHC. It keeps your routine intact on flights and stays, while delivering the same gentle, residue-free clean that earns DHC high praise worldwide.
Advantages
- Includes travel-size for convenience
- Same trusted DHC formula
- Emulsifies and rinses clean
- Good for trips and gym bags
- No added fragrance or color
Limitations
- Travel cap can leak if not sealed
- Kit price higher than single bottle
- Olive scent may linger slightly
Our Verdict
I recommend this DHC kit if you want the best facial cleansing oil and travel ease. It gives full-size performance plus a portable bottle. It’s ideal for frequent travelers or gift sets.
Best For
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| Travelers | Includes travel-size bottle for convenience |
| Gifting | Well-known, trusted formula in a kit |
| Daily use | Full-size bottle for home routine |
DHC Deep Cleansing Oil Medium
Product Overview
DHC Deep Cleansing Oil Medium is a mid-size variant for those who want the cult formula in a smaller bottle. It offers the same olive oil and vitamin E blend to dissolve makeup and sunscreen. I liked its ease of use and classic performance that rinses clean with no film.
This medium-sized bottle is practical for those testing the best facial cleansing oil or who prefer less bulk. It delivers the signature DHC results while fitting into modest bathroom storage or trial routines.
Advantages
- Same effective DHC formula
- Smaller, more storage-friendly size
- Removes waterproof makeup
- No fragrance or colorants
- Rinses clean without residue
Limitations
- Less cost-effective than larger sizes
- Olive scent persists slightly
- May require repeat purchases for heavy users
Our Verdict
I recommend the medium DHC bottle for people wanting the best facial cleansing oil without the largest size. It’s great for bathrooms with limited space or anyone trying DHC for the first time.
Best For
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| Small bathrooms | Compact size saves shelf space |
| New users | Try the classic formula without commitment |
| Occasional use | Less waste if used infrequently |
Beauty of Joseon Ginseng Oil
Product Overview
Beauty of Joseon Ginseng Cleansing Oil targets sensitive and acne-prone skin with ginseng and gentle oils. It removes waterproof makeup while respecting the skin barrier. I noticed calmer skin and less irritation after use. The texture is light and well balanced for facial cleansing.
This cleansing oil is a great contender for the best facial cleansing oil for those who want botanical actives and a gentle touch. It blends tradition with modern cleansing tech to help remove grime while supporting skin health.
Advantages
- Contains ginseng for nourishment
- Gentle on sensitive, acne-prone skin
- Removes waterproof makeup
- Light, balanced texture
- Supports skin barrier
Limitations
- Price slightly higher than basics
- Botanical scent may not suit everyone
- Not thick enough for heavy makeup layers
Our Verdict
I recommend Beauty of Joseon for those seeking the best facial cleansing oil with botanical care. It soothes and cleans without over-stripping. Ideal for people who prefer traditional extracts in modern skincare.
Best For
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| Sensitive acne-prone skin | Soothing ginseng and light oil blend |
| Botanical seekers | Herbal actives support skin health |
| Daily makeup removal | Balances clean with care |
The Face Shop Rice Water Cleansing Oil
Product Overview
The Face Shop Rice Water Bright Light Facial Cleansing Oil combines jojoba and rice water to brighten and cleanse. It dissolves makeup with a gentle slip and rinses clean. The oil leaves a light finish that suits daily use. I liked the brightening tone without harshness.
This option ranks among the best facial cleansing oil choices for those interested in a brightening, lightweight formula. It pairs well with brightening routines and leaves skin ready for serums and moisturizers without heaviness.
Advantages
- Contains rice water and jojoba oil
- Light, brightening finish
- Removes makeup effectively
- Vegan-friendly formulation
- Rinses without heavy residue
Limitations
- May be less hydrating for very dry skin
- Brightening effects are subtle
- Cap can be hard to open when wet
Our Verdict
I recommend The Face Shop Rice Water oil for those seeking the best facial cleansing oil with a light, brightening touch. It works well before serums and for daily makeup removal and layering in a brightening regimen.
Best For
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| Dull or uneven tone | Rice water supports brightening |
| Light makeup | Jojoba dissolves products gently |
| Vegan users | Plant-friendly ingredients |
FAQs of best facial cleansing oil
Are cleansing oils good for all skin types?
Yes. The best facial cleansing oil can work for dry, oily, and sensitive skin when matched to your needs and rinsed well.
Do cleansing oils cause breakouts?
Not usually. Choose non-comedogenic formulas and rinse fully. The best facial cleansing oil should remove pore-clogging makeup, reducing breakouts.
How do I use a cleansing oil?
Apply to dry skin, massage to dissolve makeup, then add water to emulsify and rinse. Follow with a gentle face wash if desired.
Can I use cleansing oil every day?
Yes. Many people use the best facial cleansing oil daily, especially as the first step in a double cleanse routine.
Will oil leave residue on my skin?
Quality oils emulsify and rinse clean. The best facial cleansing oil leaves little to no residue when used and rinsed correctly.
I tested many options and found standout performers for makeup removal, sensitivity, and hydration. The best facial cleansing oil depends on your skin type and routine, but reliable picks like DHC and La Roche-Posay work for most people.
Trust a gentle oil to melt makeup and protect your skin barrier. Use the best facial cleansing oil that fits your needs, rinse well, and enjoy softer, cleaner skin every night.
