“Cleansing oils are a type of facial cleanser that uses oil to remove dirt, makeup, and impurities from skin,” Wizemann explains. “They are typically formulated with carrier oils, a blend of plant oils such as coconut, olive, jojoba, or grapeseed oil that make up the base of the formula.” In addition, cleansing oils “often contain emulsifiers to help the oils mix with water, making the product easier to rinse off,” she says. “Some formulas may include vitamins and antioxidants for additional skincare benefits and preservatives to ensure and maintain the product’s stability.”
As for how they work, “when massaged onto the skin, the cleansing oils bind with the oils on skin, as well as makeup, sunscreen, and other impurities,” Wizemann notes. “This process dissolves these substances, allowing them to be easily washed away with water.” Cleansing oils can remove even stubborn makeup and residue, too: “The oil also helps to break down waterproof makeup and can lift dirt and debris from pores, resulting in a thorough cleanse,” she says.