Best Cleansing Oils 2025: Gentle Formulas for Radiant Skin

KORA Organics’ Milky Mushroom Oil Cleanser (7/10) feels nourishing and left our testers’ skin plump after use, especially helpful for dry complexions seeking extra hydration. In our testing it also removed makeup reasonably well and delivered soothing benefits, but the earthy, distinctive scent is divisive and a few sensitive users reported irritation and puffiness, so proceed cautiously if you react easily. Overall it’s a comforting, plant-based pick for dry skin, provided you patch-test first.

Herbivore’s Midnight Recovery Cleansing Oil (7/10) proved effective in our testing at taking off makeup while keeping skin hydrated, making it a cozy pick for dry skin types. We found it rinsed cleanly for the most part, but its essential oil content can be irritating for particularly sensitive skin and the price feels premium for the category. If you love botanical scents and want a nourishing nighttime cleanse, this is a thoughtful choice—just patch-test if you’re essential-oil sensitive.

La Roche-Posay Lipikar AP+ Cleansing Oil scored 7.5/10 and stands out for preserving moisture—our experience shows it cleanses without stripping, making it a great choice for dry, sensitive skin and even family use. Enriched with niacinamide and shea butter, it delivers soothing, hydrating benefits and works well on face and body, but during our review some users reported eye irritation and an off-putting scent. If you need a versatile, nourishing cleanser, try it cautiously around the eyes and scent-sensitive noses.

Bioderma Atoderm Shower Oil scored 7/10 in our testing as an excellent hydrator for very dry, sensitive skin, working well on both face and body for a streamlined routine. We found it leaves skin soft and soothed thanks to its plant-based oils, but the fragrance is noticeable and may not suit those with scent sensitivities; it's also less ideal for oily or combination types. If you want a multi-use, nourishing cleanser for parched skin, this is a dependable, comforting option.

Squalane + Antioxidant Cleansing Oil scored 6.5/10 and, in our testing, stood out for removing makeup without leaving a greasy film while delivering light hydration. We found the plant-based squalane base keeps skin feeling soft and balanced—great for combination skin—though the added fragrance may bother sensitive eyes and skin, with a few users reporting irritation during makeup removal. If you want a non-heavy rinse-off that nourishes as it cleanses, this is a pleasant midrange option to consider.

Camellia Cleansing Oil feels like a luxe ritual — in our testing it earned an 8/10 for removing makeup, including waterproof mascara, while leaving skin soft and hydrated thanks to its plant‑based oils. We found the scent enhances the experience, but that luxury has tradeoffs: it's pricier than many options and some users reported the pump can leak. During our review it occasionally required a second cleanse for very heavy makeup, but it’s a soothing, hydrating pick for all skin types.

Boscia's Purifying Cleansing Gel scored 6.5/10 in our testing as a gentle everyday cleanser that removes impurities without stripping moisture, making it suitable for sensitive skin. We found the antioxidant-rich formula (green tea and rosemary) helps soothe and reduce breakouts and can improve pore appearance, but it isn't the strongest choice for heavy or waterproof makeup—some testers reported needing a second pass. During our review the herbal scent divided opinions and a few users disliked it, though at $15.99 it's an accessible, hydrating option.

Dermalogica’s Precleanse is a hardworking, plant-based cleansing oil that earned an 8/10 in our review for effectively removing even waterproof makeup without a greasy finish. In our testing it left skin feeling clean and nourished, and the pleasant scent makes the ritual feel luxurious, but it’s a pricier pick and the pump can be messy and wasteful. We also noted some users experienced breakouts after use, so while it’s a reliable makeup-melter, those prone to congestion should patch-test first.

Pore Cleansing Oil [PHA] is a plant-based cleanser that scored 6.5/10 and impressed us in testing by gently melting away makeup and impurities without irritating sensitive skin. We found the added PHA helps pore appearance while still offering hydration, but the citrus-forward scent is strong and divisive for some users. It can also require multiple pumps or a second pass to remove heavy or waterproof makeup, so expect to double up if you're wearing long-wear products.

Hanskin BHA & PHA Cleansing Set scored 6/10 and in our testing removed waterproof makeup effectively while leaving skin soft and hydrated thanks to its plant-based formulation. We found it to be gentle overall, with pore-reducing benefits, but some users complained it doesn't emulsify well and reported stinging around the eyes; its heavy scent can also be off-putting for sensitive noses. This is a reasonable, budget-friendly choice for oily skin seeking exfoliating benefits, but be cautious if you wear lots of eye makeup or dislike fragrance.

Affordable and gentle, Burt's Bees Face Cleanser is a plant-based option that in our testing cleans well without stripping or drying sensitive skin, which explains its decent value score of 6.5/10. We found it leaves skin feeling soft and moisturized and offers hydrating, soothing benefits that make it easy to reach for on low-maintenance nights. Be aware, though, some reviewers disliked the scent and reported a slight residue after use, and during our review it struggled with heavier makeup removal compared with higher-scoring oils.

Pai Skincare’s Light Work Cleansing Oil is a gentle, plant-based choice for sensitive skin that scored 6.5/10 in our review; we appreciated its calming, hydrating properties and light scent. In our testing it removed most makeup without irritation, but some users found it didn’t fully clear heavy makeup and complained about a thick, sticky texture that’s harder to massage in. If you prioritize sensitivity and soothing botanicals this is a reasonable option, but it’s not the strongest remover in the lineup.

Avène’s XeraCalm A.D Cleansing Oil scored 7.5/10 in our assessment as a soothing, fragrance-free plant-based option made for reactive, sensitive skin. During our review it removed makeup effectively without causing breakouts or irritation, and its extra-soothing profile makes it a good pick for compromised skin, though some users report a gel-like texture that can leave the skin feeling a bit tight afterward. If you want a calming, non-irritating cleanser, this one is worth trying alongside a hydrating follow-up.

Curel Makeup Cleansing Oil is a budget-friendly, fragrance-free option that earned a solid 7/10 in our testing for sensitive skin. We found it reliably melts away makeup—including waterproof mascara—while keeping skin hydrated thanks to its synthetic oil base and gentle formula. Be aware it can leave an oily residue for some users, so many will prefer a follow-up water-based cleanse to feel fully clean. If you prioritize irritation-free removal at an affordable price, this is a practical, everyday pick.

Phelityl Cleansing Oil scored 7.5/10 and impressed us in testing with reliable makeup removal and nourishing hydration that softens dry skin. Formulated as a hybrid oil, it delivers soothing benefits, but during our review several users found the texture rather thick and a bit challenging to rinse off, and the higher price may deter budget-conscious shoppers. If your skin trends dry and you value a rich, pampering cleanse, this one performs well—just allow extra time to emulsify and remove it fully.

Naturopathica Manuka Honey Cleansing Balm feels indulgent and in our testing scored 7.5/10 thanks to its silky, luxurious texture that effectively removes makeup while hydrating dry skin. We found it often leaves the skin nourished without a greasy finish, which makes it a lovely option for dry complexions seeking soothing benefits. During our review some testers noted it can leave a filmy residue and that the $68 price tag is steep compared with other balms, so you may need a follow-up rinse or double cleanse.

Pure Oil Cleanser stood out in our testing as a top performer with an 8.5/10 score, efficiently dissolving makeup and sunscreen without leaving a greasy residue. Our experience shows its clean, plant‑based blend of omega‑6 oils helps decongest pores and support skin health, which makes it especially good for sensitive skin since it's fragrance‑free and free of essential oils. During our review we did note the $65 price and that it requires shaking before use, but if you prefer unscented, high‑performance cleansing it's worth the splurge.

Tata Harper’s Nourishing Oil Cleanser earned a 7.5/10 in our testing for its efficient makeup-melting power and luxurious feel, with a pleasant natural fragrance that many users enjoy. We found you need very little product to dissolve waterproof mascara and makeup, but some testers experienced mild eye irritation and most users will still want a second, water-based cleanse to remove any lingering residue. It’s an effective, high-end plant-based option if you don’t mind the price and occasional sensitivity.

SK-II’s Facial Treatment Cleansing Oil earned a high 8.5/10 in our testing for its gentle yet thorough removal of makeup, including stubborn waterproof formulas. Our experience shows it effectively cleans without irritation and leaves skin feeling soothed and hydrated, which explains why many consider it worth the splurge despite the price. That said, it contains mineral oil, which some shoppers prefer to avoid for personal or ingredient-preference reasons, so factor that into your decision if you favor fully plant-based blends.

Augustinus Bader’s Cleansing Balm is our top-rated choice here, scoring 9/10 for an impressive balance of makeup removal and rich hydration that leaves skin noticeably soft. In our testing it melted away waterproof makeup without stinging the eyes and left a non-tight, moisturized finish, making it great for dry or combination skin that craves nourishment. The formula is plant-based and fragrance-free, though some users call out the high price and an occasional lingering smell; if you want a luxe, effective ritual, it’s worth sampling.

Clinique’s Take The Day Off Cleansing Oil scored 7.5/10 in our review as a reliable, fragrance-free synthetic oil that removes most makeup and respects the skin’s natural oils. We found it rinses cleanly and leaves skin soft and hydrated, which makes it a solid choice for sensitive types, though some users reported stinging or cloudy vision if it gets into eyes and others found it inconsistent with heavy waterproof mascara. It’s an easy, forgiving everyday option if you tolerate the occasional sensitivity.

Vinoclean Cleansing Oil earned a 6/10 in our review and is effective at dissolving makeup—including waterproof mascara—while leaving skin feeling nourished rather than stripped. In our testing the plant-based formula gave hydrating, soothing results, but the oil's thick consistency can make application tricky around delicate eye areas and some users reported irritation when removing eye makeup. If you like a richer texture and prioritize hydration, give it a try but be gentle near the eyes and prepared to rinse thoroughly.

Mini Chia + Moringa Cleansing Oil earned a strong 8/10 in our review for effectively removing makeup, including waterproof formulas, without causing dryness or irritation. Our experience shows the plant-based blend hydrates, soothes, and even brightens skin while remaining fragrance-free, which is great for sensitive types who still want luxe performance. The main downside is price—some users find it costly compared with comparable cleansers—so it's best for shoppers who prioritize efficacy and a clean-ingredient list over budget.

Deep Cleansing Oil is a standout value at $5.50, earning an impressive 8.5/10 in our review for effectively removing makeup—waterproof mascara included—while leaving skin soft and moisturized without an oily finish. In our testing it was gentle enough for sensitive skin and fragrance-free, which is a big plus, though very stubborn waterproof formulas may need a second pass and olive oil can be comedogenic for some acne-prone users. If you want high performance on a budget, this one punches above its price.