16 Best Cleansing Oils 2025 To Revolutionise Makeup Removal – Tried & Tested for Every Skin Type

What the brand say: The cleansing oil helps remove long wear and waterproof make-up as well as daily impurities brought on by pollution or sunscreens. It also soothes and nourishes the skin, while preserving the skin’s natural pH. The formula was tested under dermatological supervision, and is non-comedogenic and fragrance-free.

What we know: Any mention of the word micellar will quickly conjure up an image of Biderma's Sensibio H2O Cleansing Micellar Water, which practically owned the category until other brands caught on to the power of micelles. Now Bioderma applies the same benefits of the encapsulated oily molecule (AKA micelles) to a fully-fledged oil cleanser that boasts double action Micellar Technology: that being, inverted micelles that release nourishing amino acids to stimulate the skin, then re-form with water to trap oil and impurities in an emulsion that can be easily rinsed away.

Gemma Collins, Bioderma’s dermatologist says: 'Bioderma’s newest innovation capitalises on the brands historic micellar water DNA and expertise. It is a cleansing oil with biomimetic ingredients such as amino acids and omegas 3 and 6 that are inspired by the skin cell’s membrane, and helps the skin make its own lipids in order to truly alleviate symptoms of skin sensitivity whilst simultaneously providing a deep, thorough and soothing cleanse at the same time.'

What the brand say: 'This luxurious, nourishing oil-to-milk cleanser easily melts away make-up, SPF and other impurities leaving skin feeling ultra-hydrated without clogging pores or leaving an oily residue all while helping to protect skin barrier function.'

What we know: On a mission to respect and heal our skin barriers, this cleanser from Byoma features the brand's Barrier Lipid Complex, as well as moringa seed oil, olive fruit oil and squalane to calm and hydrate the skin with a milky texture that brightens, plumps and balances. Ideal for sensitive skin, it is dermatologist tested and approved, non-comedogenic, alcohol and fragrance-free, vegan and cruelty free.

Sameeha Shaikh, beauty writer, says: 'Featuring the brand's signature Barrier Lipid Complex, and a flurry of healing kind-to-skin ingredients like moringa, this oil-to-milk cleanser melts away all traces of make-up, SPF and daily build- up, all the while supporting skin barrier function – which my acne ridden complexion is certainly in dire need of. It feels instantly soothing and works hard to cleanse without stripping the skin in any way. Plus, I'm a huge fan of the packaging which stands out on the bathroom shelf.'

What the brand says: 'A mild cleansing oil that improves the skin's appearance and prevents skin irritation. Its highly nourishing and moisturising ingredients brighten and soften the skin whilst targeting imperfections and providing an even skin tone with an overall reduction in hyperpigmentation.'

What we know: Intent of delivering a luxury skincare experience byway of powerful African botanicals, this cleansing oil boasts an impressive roster of ingredients like brightening licorice root extract, pigment-correcting plankton extract, and soothing ylang ylang III oil, to name a few.

Sameeha Shaikh, beauty writer, says: 'The formula fuses the very best organic and botanical ingredients, like brightening liquorice root, pigmentation-busting plankton extract, and soothing ylang ylang oil, to help improve the overall quality of your complexion while nourishing and softening the skin. The texture of this cleansing oil is both creamy and light, meaning it doesn't leave my skin feeling dry nor weighed down in any way - ideal if you have combination skin like me. My only qualm is the smell - I'm not a huge fan of ylang ylang. That said, this cleansing oil goes big on being organic and clean, hence why you won't find animal extracts, artificial colourants, or irritants such as fruit acids, lanoline, mineral oils, parabens, or phtalates. The result? A cleansing product that prevents skin irritation.'

What the brand say: 'Finally, look forward to taking off your make-up at the end of the day—for real. This innovative jelly-oil cleanser comes in a mess-free pump and contains a custom blend of 9 luxe oils ready to erase every type of even waterproof and longwear make-up, without the drama.'

What we know: This jelly-textured cleanser is loaded with an array of luxe-feeling oils to condition and clean, including kalahari melon, oaobab, sunflower, and castor oils which effectively lift impurities while nourishing, as well as a sensorial blend of rosemary, clary, bergamot, orange and grapefruit oils, which further help to cleanse while coating skin a spa-like scent.

Sameeha Shaikh, beauty writer, says: 'This innovative hybrid cleanser goes from jelly to oil as you rub it in, which makes it much easier to apply - no runny oily mess here – and the pump helps, too. It boasts in a whopping nine luxe oils, including kalahari melon, baobab, sunflower and castor oils, which all work to condition skin while you cleanse, as well as uplifting bergamot and softening shea butter. Each ingredient helps to dislodge all types of make-up including waterproof and longwear. While the product is scented, I felt that the intentional combination of rosemary, clary, bergamot, orange and grapefruit was spa-like and grounding.'

What the brand say: 'A cleansing oil that gently yet effectively removes stubborn makeup, pollutants and micro-dust – revealing soft, clean skin with a healthy-looking glow. This lightweight cleanser effortlessly glides on and rinses off.'

What we know: We were so impressed with this oil cleanser, it won the award for the best Genius Make-up Remover in the Grazia Skincare Awards 2023. It is packed with skin tone evening Japanese peony extract, softening and protective tsubaki oil, balancing jojoba oil and antioxidant-rich sunflower seed oil. The result? A hardworking cleanser perfect for sensitive skin and sensitive eyes.

Sameeha Shaikh, beauty writer, says: 'Loaded with jojoba and sunflower seed oil, as well as vitamin E and Japanese peony extract, this antioxidant and vitamin-rich cleanser features a lightwight, cushion-like formula that glides over my skin with ease, leaving behind a soft radiance. It gets to work on make-up (both waterproof and long wearing formulas) with little fuss as well as daily residue, while maintaining my skin's moisture balance, so I never walk away feeling stripped, tight or dry. The clever combination of ingredients means it won't cause breakouts or clog pores, and it even works across all skin types, from oily to sensitive.'

What the brand say: 'This ultra-fine cleansing oil removes make-up (including waterproof), excess sebum and impurities, while maintaining the skin's natural hydration.'

What we know: The hero ingredient in this cleansing oil, as well as a number of Erborian's stellar skincare offerings, is centella asiatica, which is an iconic in the space of traditional Korean medicine for its ability to sooth, so expect this cleanser to leave skin feeling hydrated and comfortable.

Sameeha Shaikh, beauty writer, says: 'Soothing centella asiatica, also known as tiger grass – an essential plant in traditional Korean medicine – is the super-ingredient in this botanical oil-rich formula that transforms into a milky texture when it comes into contact with water. Despite its cleansing power, this oil is surprisingly light and gentle on my skin. It doesn’t leave behind any greasy residue, which is a major plus for me, and does a great job of keeping my skin feeling soothed and comfortable. My only gripe is that the brand recommends double cleansing with its Centella Cleansing Gel, which doesn't bode well for those who don't enjoy double cleansing or buying and using multiple cleansers at once.'

What the brand says: 'The Camellia Cleansing Oil thoroughly cleanses the skin without stripping it of its natural moisture, leaving skin feeling balanced and nourished. It does not contain mineral oil, so the liquid emulsifies completely with no oily residue. The hydrating formula of this facial cleansing oil draws out oils, removes sunscreen and waterproof make-up (even mascara), which makes it perfect for incorporating into your skincare ritual. Ideal for all skin types, including dry skin, oily skin, sensitive skin, blemish-prone skin, and combination skin.'

What we know: Tatcha is a Grazia Beauty go-to. Built on the promise of delivering functional, effective and sensorial skincare rooted in Japanese ingredients and rituals, this cleanser is a product of the brand's unique approach. It contains antioxidant and vitamin enriched Japanese camellia oil (AKA tsubaki) to protect and nourish, as well as a proprietary complex of rice, green tea, and algae created through a double fermentation process, which gently exfoliates while deeply hydrating.

Sameeha Shaikh, beauty writer, says: 'A luxurious option that always feels like a treat. Bursting with vitamins and omega fatty acids, this blend of Japanese camellia oil (a rich source of vitamins A, B, D, and E, as well as nourishing omega fatty acids 3, 6, and 9) and the brand's proprietary complex of rice, green tea, and algae Hadasei-3™, is a fool-proof pick. It really does take care of your skin,
leaving it balanced with a few quick swipes. Suitable for all skin types, it left my combination, acne-prone complexion feeling more plump, petal-soft and deeply hydrated. While I had do go in twice for a thorough cleanse, I didn't mind given the gentle and luxe feel of the formula.'

What the brand says: 'Say goodbye to stubborn make-up. Lipid-Balance Cleansing Oil is proven to effortlessly remove heavy makeup with no oily residue - even around the eyes - along with sunscreen and daily impurities. Dispensed from a fuss-free pump, the transformative formula changes from a silky oil into a milky emulsion upon contact with water. It gently dissolves any lingering residue to leave the skin feeling soft, supple and perfectly balanced.'

What we know: Trust Medik8 to develop a seriously clever cleansing oil. The brand's clinical-led ethos and expert-backed ethos ensures all its offerings are anything but ordinary and this cleansing oil is the perfect example. With enhanced with anti-pollution technology, the oil quite literally draws out impurities like environmental stressors that have collected on the skin throughout the day, while nourishing and balancing with a cocktail of safflower oil, omega-6 (linoleic acid), moringa extract and vitamin E.

Sameeha Shaikh, beauty writer, says: 'A matrix of skin-hugging ingredients, like vitamin E-rich safflower oil, omega-6 and moringa extract, make this a treat for skin that is exposed to daily free radical damage from city living. I have sensitive and very reactive skin, but thanks to its clever formula and silky oil-to-milk texture, I found this cleansing oil to be gentle and soothing yet thorough - meaning almost every scrap of make-up and build-up appeared to have quickly dissolved with a quick buffing of the skin. However the brand does recommend this as a first step to double cleansing, so I often went in with another round of cleansing. The pump packaging makes it very user-friendly, too.'

What the brand says: 'An antioxidant-rich, gentle cleansing oil that removes long-wear make-up and leaves skin with a beautiful, healthy look and feel. The lightweight cleansing oil lifts away make-up and impurities, then rinses completely clean with water. Formulated with our sugarcane-derived, sustainable squalane oil, it helps keep skin hydrated and feeling fresh.'
What we know: Biossance leads with a biotech-first approach, having engineered a skin identical alternative to hydrating squalene that is developed from sustainable fermented sugarcane. You can expect heaps of that in this oil, which helps to lock moisture into the skin, alongside eight plant-based oils and extracts like lavender, orange and rosemary to calm and soften.
Sameeha Shaikh, beauty writer, says: 'I apply this directly onto dry skin and massage it in to see its
magic at play. The lightweight formula, laden with sugarcane-derived squalene and eight antioxidant-rich plant derived oils and extracts, quickly dislodges long lasting make-up while leaving skin pillow-soft and radiant. I found it very comfortable on the skin and loved the sustained glow it left behind post-wash. it's no wonder this is backed by the likes of Reese Witherspoon and Jonathan Van Ness.'

Sameeha Shaikh, beauty writer, says: 'This trusty little bottle is rich in grape seed, jojoba seed, avocado and plum kernel oils to nourish and condition, while ceramides maintain moisture and bisabolol keeps skin feeling comfy. As with the rest of Benefit's POREfessional range, this cleansing oil gets to work on your pores (obv) by unclogging and unblocking them whether it's make-up and build-up, and helps the skin to look and feel fresh, clean and healthy. I loved its featherweight, silky smooth feel, and definitely felt my skin looked more tone and even over time. I find I don't need to double cleanse with this.'

What the brand says: Designed to help clear pores by removing make-up, sebum, and dirt effectively, the brand has declared this 'the kew to glass skin.' It is also pore-controlling through its ability to reduce sebum and oil in the skin with a soothing formula, making it a great choice for oily skin types.
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What we know:** As one of the leading K-beauty brands in the UK, Anua has built up a solid reputation both on and offline thanks to its targeted skincare solutions loaded with an optimal ratio of natural and active ingredients that promise most effective results. Heartleaf is the leading ingredient in this cleansing oil for all its anti-inflammatory, soothing, and hydrating properties.

Sameeha Shaikh, beauty writer, says: 'I don't believe I've used a cleansing oil as good as this, so it's safe to say this one takes the top spot in my line up. With heartleaf at its core - one of Korea's most formidable anti-inflammatory and anti-bacteria skincare heroes - this oil cleanses while soothing, fortifying and balancing the skin. It has worked brilliantly on my acne, with no irritation or new breakouts in sight, and does a very good job of dissolving dirt and daily grime. While it is good alone, the cleanser is taken to new heights when paired with the Anua Heartleaf Quercetinol Pore Deep Cleansing Foam, £13, which work together like a dream.'

What the brand say: 'Cleansers don’t come much more simple than Haruharu Wonder Black Rice Moisture Deep Cleansing Oil - its minimal, 95%-natural formula is made up of just 5 plant oils! The standout feature of this cleanser is its use of Haruharu Wonder's patented Ultra Deep Technology, which allows ingredients to penetrate deeper into the skin, where they can work their magic most effectively.'**

What we know:** Another K-beauty gem, this time from the likes of Haruharu Wonder, known for its natural, plant-powered skincare that delivers clinically proven results. skincare offerings. This oil contains vitamin-rich rice bran oil to brighter, jojoba seed oil to reduce inflammation, as well as olive fruit oil for uber-nourishment.

Sameeha Shaikh, beauty writer, says: 'This cleanser strikes the perfect balance; it's not too light, nor too heavy. Its emulsification process is impressive, effectively lifting off my SPF and light daily make-up without leaving a greasy film on my skin. Its very minimal ingredients list (always a good thing) is packed with 95% naturally derived ingredients, including olive, sunflower, jojoba and macadamia seed oils, but the real star of the show is rice bran oil, which is naturally rich in antioxidants and does a lot to nourish the skin and improve the look of dark spots.'

What the brand says: 'The Make-up Removing Cleansing Oil is a mix of 100% natural origin nourishing plant oils. It’s effective on all types of make-up, including waterproof. Its clean, vegan formula gently removes make-up from the face, eyes and lips.'**

What we know:** Making up part of Caudalie's Vinoclean range which offers a more cleaner, natural and ecological beauty routine, this oil boasts antioxidant-rich grape-seed oil to protect and nourish, omega and vitamin-enriched sweet almond oil to hydrate, and castor oil specically intended to strengthen eyelashes.

Sameeha Shaikh, beauty writer, says: 'While strolling through a French pharmacy, I stumbled upon the Caudalie Vinoclean Cleansing Oil. What caught my eye immediately was its perfect Yuka score, emphasising its clean ingredients. This cleansing oil boasts 100% natural origin ingredients (think almond and castor oils), making it a great choice for those seeking a gentle yet effective choice, so much so it works well on all skin types including those prone to redness. The oil itself has a light, milky texture that feels luxurious on the skin. It effortlessly dissolves all types of make-up, including waterproof mascara and eyeliner.'

What the brand says: 'A nourishing, skin-softening cleansing oil that gently yet effectively removes makeup and impurities without stripping the skin.'**

What we know:** Theis homegrown brand is well loved for its dedication to protecting skin longevity and achieving collagen health, so rest assured this oil has you covered. It features winter rose oil to replace lost moisture-retaining lipids that form a healthy protective skin barrier, as well as smoothing chia seed and pomegranate, which is loaded with antioxidants and flavanoids that revitalise the skin.

Sameeha Shaikh, beauty writer, says: 'Just like its cult classic Elemis Cleansing Balm, this oil cleanser expertly melts away make-up and impurities without irritating my eyes. I’ve only started using Elemis products recently and I can finally see why people love them. You only need two pumps of the oil to remove all make-up so the bottle lasts ages. With a blend of 90% natural oils including winter rose and chia seed oils, and antioxidant-rich pomegranate extract restores the skin and replenishes its moisture barrier. It is an especially good option come winter months.'

What the brand says: 'This powerful cleansing oil dissolves all traces of make-up and impurities. Recommended for all skin types, it easily glides on and rinses off cleanly with water, leaving no residue behind. Ophthalmologist tested.'

What we know: Many of us have stayed loyal to Clinique through the years thanks to its science-first efficacious, ingredient-safe formulas. This cleanser leads with one of the most simple, stripped back ingredients list, which includes only the essentials like hydrating glycerin and tocopheryl acetate (AKA a synthetic vitamin E) that protects against environmental stressors.

Sameeha Shaikh, beauty writer, says: 'if you're after a cleansing oil that is quick and easy to use without the faff of a greasy residue, look to this.The Clinique Cleansing Oil effortlessly removes stubborn mascara, making make-up removal a breeze. Plus, its nourishing formula leaves skin feeling refreshed and rejuvenated after each use. It’s a must-have for anyone seeking a gentle yet effective cleansing experience - especially if you have very dry to oily skin. It delivers every time.'

What the brand says: 'Our 100% natural cleansing oil is clinically proven for sensitive skin, and melts away impurities and eye make-up with ease – no rubbing, no stinging, no problem. It’s that freshly washed sheets feeling, for your face.'

What we know: Perfect for skin that is prone to blemishes, breakouts, and dehydration, Pai's cleansing oil is packed with 91% organic and 100% natural origin ingredients like olive oil, sunflower oil and castor oil, as well as hero ingredient rosehip fruit extract which works to regenerate skin.

Sameeha Shaikh, beauty writer, says: 'This does a fantastic job of removing make-up, daily grime and SPF, and it leaves my skin feeling fresh and renewed. Enriched with 100% natural ingredients, it is super gentle but effective thanks to its key ingredient: Rosehip, which contains anti-inflammatory fatty acids and vitamins A and C that help to regenerate the skin, while treating signs of aging as well as hyperpigmentation, tone and texture. It was especially good at keeping my acne in check, which is all down to its sting-free, sensitive skin-friendly formula.'