The Oil Cleansing Method: How to Remove Makeup with Oil

The idea behind oil cleansing is simple: oil dissolves oil. Makeup, sunscreen and the day's build-up of sebum melt into a plant oil, which can then be wiped away gently. It's the principle behind every cleansing balm and cleansing oil on the market, done with a single ingredient you probably already own.

Why cleanse with oil?

• It breaks down long-wear makeup, kajal and water-resistant sunscreen easily.
• It's gentle: no harsh rubbing around the eyes.
• Skin feels soft afterwards rather than tight and squeaky.
• It turns cleansing into a short, relaxing massage at the end of the day.

In cities like Karachi and Lahore, where skin collects dust, sweat and pollution through the day, a thorough but gentle first cleanse can make a real difference to how skin feels at night.

Which oil to use

A light oil is best. Apricot kernel oil is our favourite for cleansing because it's fluid and rinses cleanly. Almond oil works well too, especially for drier skin. Richer oils like walnut are better saved for the body.

What you need

• About half a teaspoon of oil
• A soft, clean cloth (muslin or a soft cotton face cloth)
• Warm water
• Your usual gentle cleanser (optional, for a double cleanse)

How to oil cleanse, step by step

1. Start with dry hands and a dry face. Water stops the oil from grabbing onto makeup.
2. Pour about half a teaspoon of oil into your palm and warm it between your hands.
3. Massage it over your whole face for 60 seconds, including gently over closed eyes and along the hairline.
4. Soak a soft cloth in warm water and wring it out.
5. Lay the cloth over your face for a few seconds to let the warmth soften everything.
6. Wipe the oil away gently, rinse the cloth, and repeat until your skin feels clean.

Should you double cleanse?

If you wear heavy makeup or sunscreen, follow with your usual gentle cleanser. This 'double cleanse' removes any remaining oil and residue. On bare-skin days, the oil step alone may be enough, or you may prefer to skip it and just use your regular cleanser.

Troubleshooting

• Skin feels oily afterwards: use less oil, wipe more thoroughly, or follow with a gentle cleanser.
• Makeup isn't coming off: massage for longer and make sure your face and hands were completely dry.
• Eyes feel blurry: a little oil got in. Rinse with clean water and keep the oil on the lids, not the lash line.
• Skin feels tight: your second cleanser may be too strong. Try the oil step alone.

After cleansing

Follow with your normal routine. If your skin still feels soft, you might find you need less moisturiser. Not sure about the order? See face oil before or after moisturiser. New to face oils in general? Start with how to choose a face oil.

How often?

Most people oil cleanse in the evening only, on days they've worn makeup or sunscreen. In the morning, a splash of water or a gentle cleanser is usually enough.