Low active ingredient concentration, misleading marketing, and varying skin concerns — it’s a tough world out there for skincare girlies. One of the most important aspects of an effective skincare routine is cleansing. It helps remove daily grime, oil, makeup, and dead skin cells.
If you’re planning to buy a cleanser, chances are you’ve come across two types: Oil-based and water-based cleansers. Almost every skincare brand offers an oil-based cleanser, but what exactly are its benefits, and how can you use it? Let’s break it down!
What is an Oil-Based Cleanser?
Oil-based cleansers are made with natural and nourishing oils. They usually have a rich, oil-like texture and a more moisturising feel. When combined with water, an oil cleanser emulsifies into a milky solution.
Compared to a water-based cleanser that has a foamy, gel-like texture and removes surface-level impurities, an oil cleanser penetrates deeper into the layers of the skin and nourishes it from within.
Benefits of Using an Oil Cleanser
Not sure if buying an oil cleanser is worth it? Here are some benefits you should know:
Effective makeup removal
Did you know that makeup residue can clog pores and lead to acne and blackheads? This is where an oil-based cleanser becomes important. It can deconstruct oil-soluble substances like makeup, excess sebum (oil), and residual product buildup before it penetrates deeper into the skin’s layers. This is not possible with a regular water-based cleanser.
Hydrating and nourishing
An oil-based cleanser has a plethora of effective ingredients. While carrier oils like jojoba oil, sunflower oil, and castor oil remove makeup particles, antioxidants prevent your skin from going rancid. As a result, your skin feels more supple, smooth, and nourished without over-drying. This will help maintain a healthy lipid barrier.
Balancing oily skin
Oily skin queens know how important it is to get rid of sebum and impurities. An oil-based cleanser can help do that while balancing your skin’s natural oil production. This can help prevent acne.
Soothing sensitive skin
Some oil cleansers have ingredients like calendula or comfrey. These are ideal for soothing redness and irritation, calming sensitive skin.
Clean palette for makeup
Proper skincare is the foremost step of a natural and glowing makeup look. Oil cleansing will prepare your skin for better absorption of skincare as well as makeup products.
How to Use an Oil-Based Cleanser
While almost all oil-based cleansers have the same ingredients, using them the right way is important.
For example, if you have dry skin, you can use an oil cleanser to remove makeup and other impurities before continuing with your regular skincare routine.
But for sensitive, oily, or acne-prone skin, double cleansing is recommended. If you don’t already know, double cleansing is washing your face twice – first with an oil-based cleanser and then with a water-based cleanser. An oil-based cleanser will remove stubborn pollutants, while the water cleanser will remove any residue left. This will help clean your pores and reduce the chances of breakouts.
