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Glam Fame Journal

Do dermatologists recommend oil cleansing?

Author

Matthew Barrera

Updated on March 09, 2026

Do dermatologists recommend oil cleansing?

If your goal is to remove makeup and leave behind some natural oils on your face, oil cleansing can be a reasonable option. Actually, extra virgin olive oil as a cleanser has been recommended by dermatologists for some patients with terrible dry skin or eczema.

How long should you cleanse your face with oil?

Dr. Weiser says the best way to use oil as a cleanser is by gently massaging the oil into the skin surface for two to three minutes and then rinsing thoroughly with warm water, which I can confirm.

Is oil cleansing enough?

A: For some, oil cleansing alone is enough to keep the skin hydrated, balanced and moisturized. Others may want to use something like Fancy Face Serum, Complexion Mist or a natural moisturizer/cream (pure tallow or shea butter are great options) for an additional nutrient or moisture boost!

Can you oil cleanse everyday?

How often should you oil cleanse? You should oil cleanse no more than once a day, but you can also do it infrequently as a special treatment. It’s best to do this at night so your skin is well-hydrated for bed.

Do you wet your face before oil cleansing?

Take a soft washcloth wet with warm water, and lightly rub on your face to remove the oil. Lightly dry your skin, or let it air dry to avoid drying it with a towel, which can be harsh on skin. Your skin will feel super soft, and not tight and irritated like it might after using a harsh cleanser.

Will oil cleansing break me out?

Many are concerned that it will cause breakouts, that it will make their skin feel greasy and clog pores, but thankfully most of these worries aren’t true, according to natural beauty expert Sheri Stroh.

What oils dont clog pores?

Hempseed oil is the least comedogenic or best non-comedogenic oil on the list. This is because it has a high concentration of linoleic acid which is an essential fatty acid. Most people experience acne breakouts due to low linoleic acid that results in clogging of the pores and acne buildup.

Should I oil cleanse every day?

Do you oil cleanse first?

All you need is an oil-based or balm cleanser (balms have a waxier, more solid consistency) to use as a first step, and then a different, water-based facial cleanser to get rid of any of oily residue. “You can then penetrate the pores more deeply with the water-based cleanser.”

Which oil is best for cleansing face?

Great oils to use for oil cleansing:

  • olive oil.
  • castor oil.
  • sweet almond oil.
  • grapeseed oil.
  • avocado oil.
  • sunflower oil.
  • apricot kernel oil.
  • argon oil.

Should I oil cleanse before or after showering?

Give your face a good massage with cleansing oil before you get in the shower. While you’re in the shower, the steam will open up your pores. Towards the end of the shower, rinse all of the oil off of your face! Then, tone and moisturize per-usual.

Can cleansing oil clog pores?

Zeichner says cleansing oils won’t leave your skin greasy or heavy. D., assistant professor of dermatology at Weill Cornell Medicine, tells SELF that cleansing oils don’t work for everyone. “They can cause clogged pores, breakouts, and milia, those little hard white [bumps] that can form on your face,” she says.