Why You Should Be Using A Cleansing Oil In The Winter

In 2022, we're thankful to the Korean beauty trend known as double-cleansing, which is when you use an oil-based cleanser as the first step of your skincare routine to get rid of the oil, dirt, and waterproof makeup on your face. Doing so leaves your skin feeling extra clean and soft and doesn't dry it out. Blame it on the cold air outside and the dry air inside in the winter to create havoc on your skin. On top of that, washing your face can make it feel extra bone-dry.

Oil-based cleansers or cleansing oils have a higher level of emollients that soothe and hydrate your skin while also cleaning your skin without feeling too greasy (via Vogue). If you have oily or acne-prone skin, you don't need to worry; the latest generation of cleansing oils are formulated to suit every individual skin's need, so they won't make you break out.

Joshua Zeichner, M.D., director of cosmetic and clinical research at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City, told Allure, "Cleansing oils usually contain an oil base, along with a traditional skin-cleansing ingredient called a surfactant, which helps bind to dirt on the skin and remove it without disrupting the skin barrier." Dr. Zeichner added that you want to use cleansing oil on dry skin to work more efficiently and then rinse it off with lukewarm water. What a perfect way to end a long day at work!

Cleansing oils are gentle and can remove every trace of dirt and makeup without leaving your skin feeling dry and barren.

Allure loves Pai Skincare Light Work Rosehip Cleansing Oil, which feels super gentle on your skin and removes all traces of the day from your face without making you feel an ounce of dryness. This Allure Best of Beauty winner can clear all your stubborn makeup and moisturize your skin as it cleans. Meanwhile, Vogue recommends Biossance Squalene + Antioxidant Cleansing Oil, which gently cleanses while the sugarcane-derived squalane locks in the moisture. This cleansing oil also helps with dullness and uneven texture, and is perfect for extremely dry skin. If you have oily or acne-prone skin, you need to try Clinique Take the Day Off Cleansing Oil because it is non-acnegenic and made without parabens, phthalates, or fragrances. Harper's Bazaar recommends this vegan oil-based cleanser because it doesn't leave any residue behind, making your skin clean, clear, and soft.

Byrdie is a massive fan of Shiseido Perfect Cleansing Oil because it is lightweight, gentle, and doesn't strip your skin at all. After all, Shiseido has a fantastic reputation, and it gives you a glowy complexion. For a more affordable option, you can try Neutrogena Ultra-Light Cleansing Oil because it is non-comedogenic, dermatologically tested, and works almost as well as prestige brands at less than half the price.