Japanese beauty professionals highly recommend using cleansing oil as the first step in your skincare routine.
After removing makeup with cleansing oil, it’s important to wash your face with a facial cleanser to remove any residue or impurities.
However, some modern cleansing oils are formulated to be double-cleansing-free.
If you have dry or sensitive skin, choose a mild cleansing oil that doesn’t strip your skin of its natural moisture.
-Why Cleansing Is Essential?

Just like you can’t wash oily dishes clean with water alone,
makeup — which contains many oil-based ingredients — can’t be removed with water only.
That’s why cleansing oil is necessary: it effectively dissolves and lifts away oily makeup and impurities.
Proper cleansing is the first and most important step in any skincare routine.
-How to Choose the Right Cleanser for Your Skin Type

Knowing your skin type helps you choose the right cleansing product.
- Normal Skin – Feels balanced after cleansing. Choose a light, easy-to-use cleanser.
- Dry Skin – Feels tight or flaky after cleansing. Use a cream or milk-type cleanser.
- Oily Skin – Feels greasy, especially on the forehead and cheeks. Choose a refreshing, non-greasy finish.
- Combination Skin – Oily in the T-zone, dry around the eyes and mouth. Use a gentle, hydrating cleanser.
- Sensitive Skin – Easily irritated or itchy after washing. Use a hypoallergenic, fragrance-free formula.
–Best Way to Use Cleansing Oil

After dissolving makeup with cleansing oil, rinse gently with lukewarm water.
If you have oily skin, follow with a light face wash for a deeper cleanse.
But if you have dry or sensitive skin, avoid over-cleansing.
Opt for a cleansing oil that rinses off with water alone to preserve your skin’s natural moisture barrier.
Recommended Japanese Cleansing Oils!
This award-winning cleansing oil was one of Japan’s most beloved products in 2022. Its serum-like texture melts away makeup and pore impurities in seconds, while protecting the skin’s natural barrier. Although it cleanses thoroughly, the formula is gentle and leaves the skin comfortably moisturised after each wash. The oil has a thick, cushion-like consistency with enough viscosity to glide smoothly across the skin without dripping. Even when used on wet hands or a damp face, its cleansing performance doesn’t change and it rinses off cleanly. Because it is also effective on old keratin and excess sebum, a double cleanse is recommended for the best results—even if it feels like an extra step. Fancl’s signature commitment to “additive-free skincare” means the formula contains no preservatives, fragrance, synthetic dyes, petroleum surfactants, or UV absorbers, making it ideal for sensitive skin. To maintain freshness, the product comes with a recommended “fresh use period” of 120 days after opening. As it contains no preservatives, avoid using it beyond this period.
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In 1967, Shu Uemura—the legendary Japanese makeup artist and founder of the brand—created the world’s first cleansing oil. Decades later, this premium cleansing oil remains a favourite in Japan and is widely used by beauty professionals. Formulated with eight botanical oils, including Japanese camellia oil, it contains 98% naturally derived ingredients that cleanse effectively while caring for the skin. The texture is light and fluid, blending effortlessly with makeup and impurities. Even heavy or long-lasting makeup is removed in one step, so no second wash is required. How to use
It also features a luxurious herbal scent and helps maintain moisture even after cleansing. |
Kanebo’s brand message, “I HOPE.”, reflects its vision of offering products that bring confidence rather than simply beauty. The Instant Off Oil fits perfectly with this concept. Its signature lightweight feel is paired with Tea Topia, a unique fragrance inspired by tea blossoms with hints of muguet and rose. How to use
Made with amino acid-based cleansing ingredients, it is gentle yet highly effective—ideal for those who wear makeup that doesn’t break down easily or feel their current cleanser isn’t strong enough. |
THREE is well-loved by people who prefer naturally derived ingredients and simple, sophisticated designs. The brand focuses on domestic raw materials and appeals especially to women in their 20s and 30s. This Balancing Cleansing Oil is made from 100% natural ingredients and contains no synthetic fragrance. Its refreshing citrus scent comes from orange peel essential oil. Despite its gentle formula, it removes natural makeup in one application. The smooth, light texture minimises friction and can be used safely even on sensitive skin. It’s also a great choice for those who dislike the stickiness common in many oil cleansers. However, waterproof or heavy makeup may require a dedicated remover. Certified Organic – COSMOS The product meets strict COSMOS organic standards, covering ingredient cultivation, eco-friendly manufacturing, and packaging.
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Excel is a popular brand among younger consumers and on social media. Under the concept of “smart cosmetics” that feel intuitive and trend-forward, the brand produces makeup and skincare inspired by Tokyo’s beauty scene. This cleansing oil is formulated like a beauty serum, packed with plant-derived moisturising oils. Blended with seven types of botanical oils and containing 78% beauty-essence ingredients, its silky, lightweight texture spreads effortlessly. It’s known for its quick emulsification and smooth blending with makeup. The oil melts away not only foundation but also waterproof eyeliner and mascara, making it ideal for those who want fast, efficient cleansing. The scent is a fresh mix of bergamot and eucalyptus.
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