We’re taught early on that oil is the enemy. That squeaky clean = healthy. That anything with "oil" in the name must be avoided—especially if your skin is already producing it.
But here’s the truth: your skin loves oil. And when used properly, it can be one of the most effective, gentle, and healing ways to cleanse—no matter your skin type.
Welcome to oil cleansing. If you’ve never tried it (or tried once and gave up), let this be your official invitation to slow down, reset your routine, and start cleansing differently.
What Is Oil Cleansing?
Oil cleansing is exactly what it sounds like: washing your face with oil instead of a foaming or soap-based cleanser. It’s based on the simple chemistry of “like dissolves like”—meaning oils (even the pore-clogging kind) are best broken down and lifted by other oils.
It works by gently dissolving:
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makeup (even waterproof)
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sunscreen
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excess sebum
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dirt + debris
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clogged pores
without disrupting your skin’s natural barrier or microbiome.
Why It Works (Yes, Even for Oily + Acne-Prone Skin)
This is where most people hesitate. Why would I put oil on skin that already feels oily?
Here’s why: over-cleansing with harsh surfactants can strip your skin, which actually triggers more oil production as your body tries to rebalance.
Oil cleansing, on the other hand, respects your skin’s natural rhythm. It removes what doesn’t belong and leaves behind a soft, balanced barrier. Many people with acne-prone or oily skin see fewer breakouts once they stop over-cleansing and start nourishing instead.
Benefits of Oil Cleansing
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Deep yet gentle cleansing
No tight, dry feeling—just clean, nourished skin. -
Supports skin barrier
Especially helpful for sensitive, dry, or mature skin types. -
Balances oil production
Regular use can help regulate sebum, not increase it. -
Removes makeup + SPF
Even the stubborn stuff. No stinging, no residue. -
Ritual-worthy self-care
Oil cleansing slows you down. It's skincare as mindfulness.
How to Oil Cleanse (The Simple Way)
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Start with dry hands + dry skin.
Pump a few drops of cleansing oil into your palm and massage it into your face for at least 30 seconds—longer if removing makeup. -
Optional: steam for a moment.
Hold a warm, damp cloth over your face to open pores. -
Gently wipe clean.
Use the same damp cloth to remove the oil, along with all the dirt and grime it picked up. -
Follow with toner + moisturizer.
Or keep it simple and let your skin rest.
Urban Oreganics Cleansing Oil
Our minimalist, multi-tasking Cleansing Oil is formulated with just a few intentional ingredients—each one chosen to calm inflammation, deeply nourish, and support even the most sensitive skin.
We use lightweight, non-comedogenic oils that won’t clog pores or leave a heavy film. No synthetic fragrance, no fillers—just plant-based nourishment for skin that’s ready to breathe.
It also comes with a reusable pump to transfer onto future bottles, helping reduce waste with every refill. Or better yet, have your local refillery stock Urban Oreganics so you can keep reusing that original bottle—again and again.
It’s oil cleansing, simplified—just the way we like it.
Oil cleansing isn’t just a trend—it’s a return to balance. A chance to work with your skin instead of against it. A daily ritual that invites presence, ease, and intention into your skincare routine.
If your current cleanser leaves you dry, tight, or overthinking your next step, this might be your sign to try something gentler.
Your skin doesn’t need more. Just better.
