Question: Do I need to use another cleanser after a cleansing oil?

Answer:

Emulsifiers in cleansing oils should make the oils rinse cleanly. You can follow up with another cleanser if you want, but you don’t have to.

However, if after using a cleansing oil, you feel like there is still something leftover on your skin, go ahead and follow up with a second cleanser. To see for sure if your cleansing oil leaves any residue, you can do a "mirror test."

To do this test, wash your face with your cleansing oil, rinse, and then touch your skin (while still damp) with your finger. Wipe your finger on a mirror and see if the water trails are clear or cloudy. If the water leftover on your face is clear, then you probably won't have to follow up with a second cleanser. If the water is white, opaque, or murky, then you probably need to rinse with more water, cleanse again, or purchase a cleansing oil with more powerful emulsifiers.

Please note: Some people like this cleansing oil residue because it may help their skin feel more moisturized.

If you are using plain oil (without emulsifiers) as an oil cleanser, then it is probably a good idea to use a second cleanser, unless you are using the OCM.

Last updated: September 23, 2012

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