If you live in India, you know the struggle is real. Between the scorching heat, the monsoon humidity, and the inevitable city pollution (dhool-mitti), our skin goes through a lot more than just wearing makeup. For years, the narrative has been that makeup remover oil is only for heavy wedding glam or waterproof mascara. But if you are only using it for that, you are missing out on the holy grail of skincare.
Let’s debunk a myth right now: Putting oil on your face won't make it oilier if you use the right kind. In fact, the best cleansing oil formulations are hydrophilic meaning they mix with water to rinse away cleanly, taking the grime with them.
Here are 5 surprising benefits of adding a cleansing oil in India to your routine, specifically tailored for our unique climate and skin types.
1. It Conquers Indian Pollution (Deep Pore Cleansing)
Standard face washes are often water-based. While they refresh the skin, they struggle to break down oil-based impurities. In Indian metros, vehicle exhaust and industrial pollutants are lipophilic (oil-loving). They seep deep into your pores and stick there.
A deep cleansing oil binds to these pollutants on a molecular level. It acts like a magnet, pulling out the dirt trapped inside pores that a foaming cleanser simply can't reach. If you struggle with blackheads or congested skin, incorporating a dedicated pore cleanser based on oil is a game-changer.
2. The "Like Dissolves Like" Principle for Oily Skin
It sounds counterintuitive, but an oil cleanser in India is actually one of the best treatments for oily skin. When you strip your skin with harsh, soapy face washes, your skin panics and overcompensates by producing more sebum.
Using a botanical-based oil works on the principle of "like dissolves like." It dissolves the hardened sebum (oil) clogging your pores without stripping your natural moisture barrier. This balances your skin’s oil production over time.
3. The Only Effective Way to Remove Sunscreen
We all know we need sunscreen daily. But did you know that modern, water-resistant sunscreens and tinted sunscreens contain polymers that are designed not to wash off with water?
If you are noticing breakouts despite washing your face, it’s likely residue from your SPF. A thorough massage with a cleansing oil breaks down these stubborn UV filters, ensuring your skin is truly breathable at night.
4. Protecting the Acid Mantle (No More Squeaky-Dry Skin)
Many Indian consumers love that "squeaky clean" feeling, but that is actually the sound of your skin barrier crying for help. The alkaline nature of soaps disrupts the skin's pH (acid mantle).
Japanese skincare philosophy, which heavily influences products like the DHC Cleansing Oil, focuses on gentleness. These oils clean effectively while leaving the skin soft and supple, not tight and dry. This makes them the perfect precursor to applying active treatments, like a nourishing collagen skin cream, as the skin is clean but not stripped.
5. It Facilitates Lymphatic Drainage
You can't rush an oil cleanse. It requires 60 seconds of gentle massage. This daily ritual does more than clean; it improves blood circulation and encourages lymphatic drainage. This helps reduce puffiness and gives the face a natural, healthy glow something we all crave during the festive season.
How to Use: The Double Cleanse Method
To get these benefits, you must follow the "Double Cleanse" technique:
- Step 1: Apply the double cleansing oil to dry skin with dry hands. Massage for 60 seconds.
- Step 2: Wet your hands and massage again. The oil will turn milky (emulsify).
- Step 3: Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water.
- Step 4: Follow up with a gentle water-based Japanese facial cleanser to finish the job.
If you are looking to buy cleansing oil that is cult-favorite and globally recognized, DHC is the gold standard.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use cleansing oil if I have acne-prone skin?
A: Yes. Acne is often caused by clogged pores. A non-comedogenic deep cleansing oil (like DHC) dissolves the sebum plug causing the acne without irritating the inflammation, unlike abrasive scrubs.
Q: Do I need to double cleanse in the morning?
A: Generally, no. A single cleanse is sufficient in the morning. However, an evening double cleanse is mandatory to remove the day's sunscreen and pollution.
Q: Will DHC Cleansing Oil leave a greasy residue?
A: No. DHC Deep Cleansing Oil is formulated to be water-soluble. Once you add water, it emulsifies into a milky white substance and rinses off completely, leaving no grease behind.
Q: Is it safe for sensitive Indian skin?
A: Absolutely. Since it relies on olive oil and botanical ingredients rather than harsh surfactants or alcohol, it is suitable for sensitive skin.