Is cleansing oil or makeup remover better for your face? There are pros and cons to each.
Cleansing oil and makeup remover are different products used to remove dirt, oil, impurities and makeup from the skin.
But when comparing cleansing oil vs makeup remover which one is better? Which one should you use?
What are cleansing oils?
Cleansing oils are gentle cleansers that emulsify with water and have a lightweight formula that works for all skin types.
Most oil cleansers come in liquid form or in an oil-based form.
The advantage of using cleansing oils is that they usually avoid adding harsh chemicals or fragrances that can irritate your skin.
What is makeup remover?
On the other hand, makeup removers remove makeup from the face and eyes without using water.
They come in liquid forms as well as wipes, lotions, and creams.
The advantage of makeup removers is that they break down eye makeup quickly, so you don’t have to spend time scrubbing your eyes with cotton balls or pads soaked in toner.
Is cleansing oil the same as makeup remover?
No, cleansing oil is not the same as makeup remover.
Makeup removers include cleansing oils and water-based removers, but they are not the same thing.
Cleansing oils are oil-based, which is less likely to irritate sensitive skin and most makeup removers are water-based.
Cleansing oil is gentler on the skin than makeup remover.
Cleaning oil removes makeup, oils and impurities while also moisturising the skin. It is also gentler on the eyes than traditional makeup remover.
Cleansing oils can also be used as a replacement for traditional face wash if you want to avoid using harsh chemicals on your face.
However, they may not be as effective at removing waterproof mascara or eyeliner as traditional makeup removers.
Cleansing oil vs makeup remover: cost $$$
Cleansing oils are not always the most budget-friendly option.
While they are a great way to remove makeup, they often come at a higher price point than traditional makeup removers.
They can be more expensive because they provide a more thorough cleanse.
However, if you’re on a budget, there are affordable options that do an equally good job of removing your makeup and leave your skin feeling fresh.
Why would you use a cleansing oil?
Cleansing oils can be an important part of a good skincare routine.
They are a gentler way to remove makeup and other dirt from your skin, and also help to cleanse.
They are usually applied before using a facial cleanser or cream to remove makeup, sunscreen, and other pollutants from the skin.
Some people use cleansing oils as their only form of makeup removal, while others use them as an addition to their existing routine.
Some people choose to use cleansing oils on their face daily, while others only use them once a week.
People have different skin types and therefore might need different cleansers depending on those skin’s needs.
What’s the difference between cleansing oil & makeup remover?
Cleansing oils are a gentle, cost-effective way of removing makeup and moisturizing the skin.
However, they may not be strong enough to remove waterproof mascara.
On the other hand, makeup remover is usually less expensive than cleansing oil.
Though it is usually more effective for waterproof mascara and can be too harsh on sensitive skin.
How do cleansing oils and makeup removers cleanse?
Oil cleansers clean the skin and remove makeup. They break down oil and dirt on the face.
A cleansing oil will not only remove makeup but also excess sebum from the skin.
Makeup remover, on the other hand, removes makeup from your face.
It usually contains an emulsifier which breaks down the oils in your makeup, making it easier for you to wipe them off with a tissue or cotton ball.
Cleansing oil vs makeup remover: benefits
Cleansing oil is a great way of cleansing your skin and removing makeup. It doesn’t contain harsh chemicals that can do more harm than good to your skin.
Cleansing oils are made of different ingredients. Some are just pure oils, while others have natural ingredients mixed in with them.
They’re also gentle on your skin and leave nothing behind when you rinse it off with water.
On the other hand, makeup remover can make taking off your makeup easier and more effective.
No need to scrub against your skin or use harsh cleansers. Just a gentle stroke or two will remove all traces of makeup without having to work at it.
Cleansing oil vs makeup remover: disadvantages
Cleansing oils can be expensive and also have a tendency to leave behind an oily residue on the skin, which can cause breakouts so if you’re prone to acne and breakouts, be cautious while using oil cleansers.
They’re not for everyone.
A combination of cleansers is often effective as different types of cleansers work in different ways on your skin.
Makeup removers have just as many disadvantages.
One disadvantage is that they can dry out your skin and irritate your eyes.
Dry, irritated skin may lead to acne outbreaks and other skin problems. Even a thin layer of residue left be home on your skin can lead to contact dermatitis or an allergic reaction.
Another disadvantage is that makeup remover can only remove some types of makeup, and depending on the quality, can take a long time to do so.
Furthermore, they sometimes contain ingredients that are not only unsuitable for your skin but have harmful effects on the environment.
How to choose the right cleansing oil for your skin
So, how do you choose the right cleansing oil for your skin? There are three main considerations when choosing a cleansing oil:
- Skin type (will be used for dry, sensitive or oily skin)
- Ingredients
- Budget $$$
For dry skin, a cleansing oil should typically be lightweight but provide ample hydration and moisture.
For oily skin, a cleansing oil should be low- or no-pore-clogging and gentle enough to not strip the skin of its natural oils.
For everyone, a cleansing oil should be non-comedogenic and fragrance-free. Avoid oils that are high in silicone or paraben because they may clog pores and increase the risk of blackheads.
Cleansing oils come in a wide range of prices, so you’ll want to make sure that you’re choosing the right oil for your budget and skin type.
More expensive oils typically have more healing properties and come with a longer shelf life than their cheaper counterparts, but if you’re on a budget, then oils that are $25 or less can be a viable option.
Which one should you choose?
Cleansing oils are a great alternative to makeup removers but which one should you choose?
Well, cleansing oils are gentle on the skin and they don’t leave any residue behind. They also hydrate and help remove impurities from your skin.
They are also better if you have sensitive skin or dry skin because there’ll be less irritation.
Makeup removers on the other hand, may sometimes contain irritating ingredients yet are more effective at removing waterproof eye makeup and are less expensive than cleansing oils.
So if you’re looking for an affordable option, then you should go with makeup remover instead.
However keep in mind that using a combination of cleansers is often effective as different cleansers work in different ways and really there’s no reason why you can’t use both in your skincare routine.
