By Emily Algar
A good oil cleanser can completely transform the health of your skin. It’s a fail-safe way to deeply purify your complexion, which will improve the efficacy of your entire routine while preventing things like breakouts, bumps and dullness.
But what makes a good oil cleanser? And who exactly should be using one? Is it safe for acne-prone complexions? We’ve researched all of this and compiled six very convincing reasons why an oil cleanser might be the game-changer your face is searching for. Scroll down for the skintel…
What Is Oil Cleansing?
Oil cleansing involves using an oil-based liquid or semi-solid cleanser to dissolve makeup, sunscreen, dirt and debris, which ensures a deeply cleansed and purified complexion.
Who’s It For?
Despite misconceptions, oil cleansing is a great step for every skin type, from dry and sensitive, all the way to congested, acne-prone complexions.
How To Oil Cleanse:
Oil cleansers can be used alone or as part of a double cleansing routine. As a rule of thumb, always start with your oil-based formula before moving on to other gels, lotions or creams.
Expert Replenish Squalane Cleansing Oil can be used in the morning to gently purify and de-puff, or in the evening as a first cleanse. Massage a few pumps into dry skin (including the eye area) before emulsifying with a little bit of water. At this point, you might have mascara migrating towards your cheeks, but once you rinse, you’ll be left with ultra-soft, cared-for skin. Follow up with a gel (Gentle Cleanser is a crowd-pleaser) before the rest of your routine.
What Are The Benefits Of Oil Cleansing?
In short, there are plenty! But the following are six excellent reasons to convince you that cleansing oils are beneficial for all skin types:
- Removing waterproof makeup
An obvious one but an important one nonetheless, oil cleansers are brilliant when it comes to removing waterproof makeup. Whether it’s winged liner or a matte lip, the oil spheres in the cleanser will break down long-wear products, leaving your skin clean and prepped for a second cleanse.
- Dissolving skincare and sunscreen
On a similar note, a good oil cleanser will melt away any oil-based sunscreen and skincare. If you’re wearing thick zinc or constantly reapplying SPF (and we hope you are), it’s essential to thoroughly break it down to ensure the rest of your skincare can do its thing. Start with a few pumps on dry skin, and massage in for best results.
- Rebalancing oil production
If you’re oily or breakout-prone, it might seem counterintuitive to reach for an oil cleanser, but hear us out: the botanical oils found in Expert Replenish Squalane Cleansing Oil attract excess sebum left on the skin, so it balances out your skin but leaves it hydrated. Winning!
Once emulsified, the formula also rinses completely clean, so there’s no oily residue – and therefore no need to fret about potential breakouts. If anything, because oil cleansers are so effective at removing oil-based makeup, they’re great at preventing congestion. When we fail to cleanse properly, what’s left can clog pores, triggering the formation of blackheads and closed comedones.
- Nourishing the skin barrier
Some cleansers are loaded with surfactants that disrupt the skin barrier, causing that uncomfortable tight feeling post-cleanse. Not only does an oil cleanser prevent this, it actually replenishes your skin and provides a supple, balanced complexion.
- Rehydrating dry skin
Oil cleansers for dry skin are game-changing. Because of the lipid content, they work to nourish and replenish, leaving the complexion plump, soft and comfortable. Expert Squalane Cleansing Oil is formulated with Squalane, a rich emollient that’s structurally the same as the body's natural ‘moisture’, which promises seriously hydrated skin!
- Improving product penetration
When we don’t properly cleanse, dirt, debris and leftover skincare prevent the penetration of serums and moisturisers – think of it like a film blocking active ingredients from going through the skin’s surface. A thorough oil cleanse will mean your skin is properly purified and prepped for all that comes after.
Have we captured your attention? If you can now see the incredible benefits of oil cleaning for your skin, our top tip is: Expert Replenish Squalane Cleansing Oil. Made with a blend of botanical oils, Squalane, Kakadu Plum and Vitamin E, this formula is lightweight but thorough. Not only will it properly clean your skin, it will leave it silky soft and perfectly primed for the next step in your routine.
Want to know more about the ins and outs of cleansing for optimal complexion health? Read up on the rest of our options here.