If you live in India, you know the struggle: high humidity, intense pollution, and the cultural love for waterproof kajal and festive makeup. For years, we’ve been told that "squeaky clean" is the goal, leading many of us to scrub our faces with harsh foams until our skin barrier cries for help.
But here is the truth that Korean skincare enthusiasts have known for a decade: if you want clear, glowing skin, you need to start with oil. Specifically, a facial cleansing oil.
If the thought of putting oil on your face makes you nervous about breakouts, pause right there. As a skincare consultant analyzing skin health across Indian demographics, I’m here to debunk the myths and give you 7 solid reasons why an oil based cleanser is the missing MVP in your routine.
1. The Science of "Like Dissolves Like"
High school chemistry taught us that water and oil don't mix. That is exactly why water-based face washes fail to remove sebum (skin oil), sunscreen, and oil-based makeup effectively.
A facial cleansing oil works on the principle of "like dissolves like." The oil in the cleanser binds to the oils on your face—including stubborn sebum and impurities clogged deep in your pores—and lifts them away effortlessly without stripping your skin.
2. It Is the Foundation of Double Cleansing
You have likely heard of the "Double Cleanse" method popularised by K-Beauty. It isn’t just hype; it is a necessity, especially in polluted cities like Delhi or Mumbai.
- Step 1: Use a makeup remover oil or cleansing oil to break down sunscreen and makeup.
- Step 2: Follow with a water-based wash to clean the skin itself.
Without the first step, you are often just pushing dirt around your face rather than removing it.
3. Melts Waterproof Makeup Without Scrubbing
We all love a good smudge-proof lipstick or waterproof mascara, but removing it can be a nightmare. Harsh scrubbing leads to micro-tears in the skin and premature aging around the eyes.
The DHC cleansing oil is legendary in this department. It dissolves stubborn makeup in seconds. For those looking to try this out, the Oil Cleanse & Lip Moisture Duo is the perfect starter kit. It combines the cult-classic Deep Cleansing Oil with a lip cream, ensuring both your face and lips are treated with care.
4. It Balances Oil Production (Yes, Really!)
This is the biggest myth in skincare: "I have oily skin, so I shouldn't use oil."
False. When you use harsh soaps to strip oil from your face, your skin panics and overproduces sebum to compensate, leading to more oiliness. A Korean cleansing oil or high-quality Japanese option like DHC helps maintain the skin's moisture barrier, signaling your skin to slow down oil production.
5. Deep Pore Cleaning vs. Surface Cleaning
Blackheads and whiteheads are essentially hardened oil plugs. Surface cleansers cannot reach them. A Deep cleansing oil penetrates the pore, softening these plugs so they can be washed away. This results in the appearance of smaller pores and smoother texture over time.
6. Hydration While You Cleanse
Most Indian face washes leave your skin feeling tight. That "tight" feeling is actually skin dehydration.
High-quality oils, such as the olive oil found in DHC products, are rich in antioxidants and Vitamin E. They nourish the skin while cleansing.
Pro Tip: After cleansing, lock in that glow immediately. I recommend following up with the LX-ME Brightening Lotion to prep your skin for hydration.
7. It Is the Best Way to Remove Sunscreen
Sunscreen is non-negotiable, but modern formulations (especially water-resistant ones) are designed to stick to your skin. A standard face wash rarely removes SPF completely, leading to clogged pores. A cleansing oil buy is an investment in clear skin because it is the only effective way to fully break down SPF filters at the end of the day.
FAQ: Your Cleansing Oil Questions Answered
Q: Will using a cleansing oil cause acne?
A: No, provided you rinse it off correctly. Look for emulsifying oils (like DHC) that turn milky when water is added and rinse clean without leaving a residue. This prevents clogged pores.
Q: What is the best oil cleanser for Indian skin?
A: The DHC cleansing oil is widely considered the best oil cleanser globally and in India due to its olive oil base which mimics human sebum, making it compatible with almost all skin types.
Q: How do I use a facial cleansing oil properly?
A:
- Apply to dry hands and a dry face.
- Massage for 60 seconds to break down makeup.
- Add warm water to emulsify (it will turn milky).
- Rinse thoroughly.
Q: Can I just use coconut oil from my kitchen?
A: It is not recommended. Kitchen oils do not contain emulsifiers, meaning they stick to the skin and can severely clog pores. Always use a formulated double cleansing oil.
Conclusion: Time to Glow
Switching to an oil cleanser is the single most impactful change you can make for your skin health. It respects your skin barrier while doing the heavy lifting against pollution and makeup.
Ready to upgrade your routine? Start with the Oil Cleanse & Lip Moisture Duo to experience the magic of a deep clean without the dryness.