Does your skin still feel impure despite thorough washing? Then the solution might be simpler than you think – start with the right type of cleansing. In Korean skincare, oil-based cleansing is an indispensable first step, loved for its ability to effectively melt away makeup, sunscreen, and sebum without disrupting the skin's moisture balance. It's more than just cleansing – it's the key to radiance, clarity, and skin in harmony.
What is oil-based cleansing?
Oil-based cleansing is a facial cleanser that uses natural oils and emulsifying agents to dissolve makeup, SPF, excess sebum, and impurities – without drying out the skin. When massaged onto dry skin, it binds to oil-based impurities and gently melts them away. When water is added, the formula transforms into a milky, emulsion-like liquid that rinses off easily.
Common ingredients in Korean oil cleansers include:
- Jojoba oil – mimics the skin's own oils and balances sebum production.
- Grape seed oil – rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory.
- Centella Asiatica – soothes sensitive skin and strengthens the skin barrier.
- Fermented extracts – improve absorption and provide deep nourishment.
The result? Deeply cleansed yet hydrated skin – ready for the next step in your routine.
What distinguishes Korean oil-based cleansing from traditional variants?
Korean oil-based cleansing differs from many Western alternatives through its innovative composition, light texture, and focus on skin health at every step. Instead of just removing makeup and dirt, the products are developed to simultaneously care for, hydrate, and strengthen the skin.
Here are some unique features of Korean oil cleansers:
Multifunctional ingredients
Korean formulations often contain plant-based oils, fermented extracts, and soothing agents like Centella Asiatica – making them as much skincare as they are cleansing.
Lighter consistency
Unlike many thick, heavy oil cleansers in the West, Korean variants are often light, emollient, and non-comedogenic – perfect even for sensitive or acne-prone skin.
Part of double cleansing
In K-beauty, oil cleansing is not a standalone product, but the first step in the famous double cleansing – a routine that cleanses the skin deeply without disturbing its natural balance.
Skincare in every step
Where traditional cleansing often focuses on a “clean feeling,” K-beauty focuses on results over time – with less irritation, more radiance, and a stronger skin barrier.
Using Korean oil-based cleansing is not just a matter of clean skin – it's a first step in a more conscious and results-oriented skincare routine.
Benefits of using oil-based cleansing
Incorporating an oil-based cleanser into your daily skincare routine can make a big difference – especially if you experience clogged pores, dull skin, or stubborn makeup residues that just won't disappear. Here are the main benefits:
Effective deep cleansing
Oil-based cleansing dissolves makeup, sunscreen, sebum, and other oil-based impurities that water-based cleansing alone cannot handle. It is one of the gentlest ways to cleanse the skin deeply – without compromise with moisture.
Prevents clogged pores and pimples
By regularly removing sebum and dirt, the risk of clogged pores, blackheads, and acne breakouts is reduced.
Maintains the skin's natural balance
Unlike strong cleansers that can disrupt the skin's barrier, oil cleansing helps to maintain the skin's protective layer and pH balance.
Soothes and strengthens sensitive skin
Many Korean oil cleansers contain ingredients that are anti-inflammatory and barrier-strengthening – perfect for those with sensitive or easily irritated skin.
Gives the skin a natural glow
When the skin is free from impurities and fully hydrated, it shows immediately. The result is a clearer, healthier, and more radiant complexion.
Whether you wear makeup daily or not, oil-based cleansing is an effective way to prepare the skin for the rest of your skincare routine – and give it the best possible start.
How and when to use oil-based cleansing?
For best results, use oil-based cleansing as the first step in your evening routine, especially if you wear makeup, sunscreen, or are in an urban environment with a lot of pollution. Here's how to do it:
Step-by-step:
- Apply to dry skin: Massage 2–3 pumps of oil cleanser directly onto a dry face with dry hands. Focus on areas with makeup, SPF and a lot of sebum – such as the forehead, nose, and chin.
- Massage for 30–60 seconds: Let the oil melt away impurities and dissolve makeup. Use gentle circular motions.
- Add water: Wet your hands and continue massaging – the cleanser transforms into a milky emulsion that lifts dirt from the skin.
- Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water: Ensure that all product is rinsed off properly.
- Follow up with a water-based cleanser: This step (in double cleansing) removes sweat, dirt, and water-soluble residues for a completely clean and fresh feeling.
Tips:
- Use every evening as part of double cleansing – especially if you wear SPF or makeup.
- In the morning, you can skip the oil step if the skin feels balanced.
- Combine with a mild gel cleanser or foam cleanser that suits your skin type.
Which skin types should use oil-based cleansing?
A common misconception is that oil is not suitable for oily or acne-prone skin – but in fact, the right oil-based cleanser can be a gamechanger for almost all skin types. The key is to choose a formula that matches your needs.
Oily or acne-prone skin
Choose a lightweight, non-comedogenic oil that dissolves excess sebum without clogging pores. Oil-based cleansing helps to balance the skin's oil production and reduce pimples.
Recommendation: Look for ingredients like tea tree oil, grapeseed oil, or fermented extracts.
Dry skin
For those with tight, moisture-deficient skin, oil cleansing is a savior. It cleanses effectively without stripping the skin's natural oils.
Recommendation: Choose richer oils like jojoba oil or squalane to hydrate already in the cleansing step.
Sensitive skin
Mild, fragrance-free oil cleansers with soothing ingredients help to reduce irritation and protect the skin barrier.
Recommendation: Ingredients like Centella Asiatica, oat extract or Chamomile is extra gentle on the skin.
Combination skin
A balancing formula that is neither too oily nor too thin works perfectly to meet the needs of both dry and oily areas.
Common questions about oil-based cleansing
Can I use oil-based cleansing if I have oily skin?
Yes! The right oil cleanser can actually balance sebum production and cleanse the skin without clogging pores – "oil dissolves oil" is a well-known concept in K-beauty.
Do I need to use a water-based cleanser afterward?
Yes, according to the double cleansing method, it is recommended to follow up with a water-based cleanser to remove water-soluble impurities and provide completely clean skin.
Does oil cleansing remove sunscreen?
Absolutely. Oil-based cleansing is effective in dissolving water-resistant SPF formulations, making it an important step in the evening routine.
Can I use oil cleansing every day?
Yes, it is gentle enough for daily use – especially in the evening when you need to remove makeup, sunscreen, and the day's dirt.
Do I need to use oil cleansing even if I don't wear makeup?
Yes. The skin's own sebum, SPF, and pollutants require an oil-based cleanser to be effectively removed.
What happens if I don't emulsify the oil with water?
Without emulsification, you risk leaving oil residues on the skin, which can cause clogged pores. The step with water is crucial for the product to work correctly.
Is oil cleansing suitable for sensitive skin?
Yes, provided you choose a fragrance-free and mild formula with soothing ingredients. Korean variants are often particularly gentle.
Can I use oil cleansing in the morning too?
You can, but it's not always necessary. Many choose to use it only in the evening when the skin needs deep cleansing.
Can oil cleansing help with blackheads?
Yes, regular use helps dissolve sebum and dirt that can cause blackheads – especially around the nose and chin.
How do I store my oil-based cleanser?
Store it in a cool and dry place, preferably away from direct sunlight, to preserve the quality of the oils.
Summary: Give your skin a clean start – every day
Oil-based cleansing is more than just a first step – it is the foundation of an effective, gentle, and results-oriented skincare routine. By removing impurities without disrupting the skin's balance, it gives your complexion the right conditions to shine, regardless of skin type or needs.
Do you want to experience the difference yourself?
Explore our handpicked range of oil-based cleansers from South Korea – carefully selected to give you clean, fresh, and balanced skin every day.
Start your K-beauty routine with the right cleansing – your skin will thank you!