As a beauty editor, the best cleansing oils have become a staple in my skincare routines over the past few years. These formulas are gentle yet effective, removing make-up, dirt, and impurities without stripping the skin of its natural moisture. Compared to traditional cleansers, which can sometimes leave skin feeling tight or dry, cleansing oils work by dissolving oils on the skin and rinsing away debris while ensuring the skin remains balanced and hydrated.
A great first step in a double cleansing routine, they can remove even the most stubborn of waterproof mascara and sunscreen, but they’re also gentle enough to be used alone. Formulated to bind with the skin’s excess oils and other impurities, they promise a deep clean without clogging pores, which is just one reason why experts recommend them for people with acne-prone skin.
But most other skin types can benefit, too. While oily or combination skin might seem like the last to benefit from an oil-based product, the right product can actually help regulate oil production. Those with sensitive or dry skin may find a cleansing oil soothing because they don’t tend to be formulated with ingredients that could be potentially irritating, and they can provide additional nourishment
So, whether you’re battling dryness, looking to gently remove stubborn make-up, or simply searching for a gentler alternative to your current cleanser, cleansing oils offer a hydrating, thorough clean that can elevate any skincare routine.
How I tested
I’m a beauty editor with a decade of experience in the industry. I’ve been using oil cleansers, among many other Korean beauty favourites, for years. All the formulas below are tried and tested over a number of months, with each being incorporated into my evening skincare routine.
- Removing make-up: I used each one as a first cleanse to see how well they were able to dissolve and remove the day’s skincare and make-up (including SPF and mascara). I assessed how easily the formula melted away impurities.
- Texture: I considered how the cleansing oils made my skin feel after use (did my face feel soft or dry and irritated?) I also took into account the texture of each oil and how well it lathered up with water.
- Scent: If fragrance is an important factor when you buy a cleansing oil, I’ve noted the scent of each formula and whether it contributed to a more pleasant experience.
- Value for money: I also considered the value for money each cleansing oil offers, from the size of the bottle to whether a little goes a long way. From budget buys to luxury formulas, these are the top-tier cleansing oils to buy in 2025.
Why trust IndyBest reviews
Lucy Partington is an established beauty editor who has worked in the skincare space for more than a decade. She keeps one eye on the latest skincare launches and innovations, and has reviewed the good, the great, and the overpriced, from retinol creams and aftersun lotions to face sunscreens. She’s garnered experience speaking to dermatologists and knows the ingredients to seek out (and avoid) to keep your skin safe year-round. When it comes to cleansing oils, she’s only included brands you can really trust.
The best cleansing oils for 2025 are:
- Best overall – Medik8 lipid balance cleansing oil: £29, medik8.com
- Best budget buy – Bubble first class oil cleanser: £17, Boots.com
- Best for dry skin – CeraVe hydrating foaming oil cleanser: £10.50, Boots.com
- Best for sensitive skin – Bioderma sensibio micellar cleansing oil: £19.50, Lookfantastic.com
