Glow Definition
An oil-based cleanser in skincare is the first step in a two-part cleansing ritual, often used to remove makeup, sunscreen, and buildup at the surface level. These cleansers rely on oils (natural or synthetic) to gently break down oil-soluble debris without disrupting the skin’s moisture balance. Unlike foaming or gel formulas, they typically emulsify into a milky texture when rinsed, leaving skin feeling conditioned—not stripped.
This category includes balms, cleansing oils, and sorbets, all designed to be massaged onto dry skin before water is added. While oil-based cleansers are often associated with double cleansing, they can also be used on their own depending on your routine. Whether part of a glow-first routine or a minimalist edit, they help prep the skin for what comes next—especially when followed by a water-based cleanser.
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Why It Matters
Oil-based cleansers are more than just a makeup remover — they’re the quiet openers of a glow-conscious routine. By dissolving SPF, sebum, and long-wear products without tugging or stripping, they gently sweep away buildup that water-based cleansers can’t reach. This makes them especially useful for city dwellers, sunscreen wearers, or anyone layering multiple products daily.
But it’s not just about what they remove — it’s how they set the tone. Starting with an oil cleanse creates a softer canvas for the rest of your routine, helping the second cleanse work more effectively without needing to overdo it. In a skincare world that often leans toward doing more, oil cleansing is a reminder that glow starts with intentional, foundational care.
GLOW TIP Start your oil cleanse with dry hands and a dry face — massage thoroughly for at least 30 seconds to dissolve buildup before rinsing or wiping gently with a damp cloth.
Why We Love It For Glow
Oil-based cleansers bring intention to the first step of a glow routine. They dissolve layers — not just of makeup or sunscreen, but of the day — without leaving skin tight or disrupted. It’s less about stripping, more about softening the transition from surface-level buildup to skin that’s ready to absorb what comes next.
We love how this format sets the tone for everything that follows. By removing residue while respecting the skin barrier, oil-based cleansers create a clean slate without forcing a reset. They’re especially grounding in evening rituals, offering both function and a moment of calm.
Reach for Biossance Squalane + Antioxidant Cleansing Oil — a smooth, nourishing first cleanse that dissolves buildup with ease.
This silky oil glides across skin to lift away sunscreen, makeup, and surface debris without tugging or drying. Its antioxidant-rich formula, paired with plant-derived squalane, leaves skin feeling refreshed and balanced — a luxe yet accessible step in your double cleanse.
FAQ
What does an oil-based cleanser in skincare do?
An oil-based cleanser helps dissolve makeup, sunscreen, and excess sebum without disrupting your skin’s natural moisture. It works by binding to oil-based impurities, making it easier to rinse away buildup that water alone can’t remove. This step is especially useful for anyone wearing long-wear makeup or following a multi-step skincare routine.
Can I use an oil-based cleanser if I have oily or acne-prone skin?
Yes, many oil-based cleansers are formulated to be non-comedogenic and can support oily or acne-prone skin types. They help clear away pore-clogging debris gently, without the stripping effect some foaming cleansers can cause. Look for lightweight oils or balm textures that rinse clean without leaving a greasy film.
Do I need to follow an oil-based cleanser with another cleanser?
If you’re doing a double cleanse, then yes — the oil-based cleanser is step one, used to break down oil-based debris. Follow it with a water-based cleanser to sweep away any remaining residue. This pairing supports a cleaner canvas without over-cleansing or stressing the skin barrier.