Every great skincare routine starts with a cleanser—but they don’t all work quite the same way. Here’s where understanding the difference between oil and water-based formulas can help you choose the cleanser that fits your skin best.
Let’s explore how each type works, what skin types they suit, and how to build the ideal cleansing regimen for your current needs. Because it’s all about keeping your skin happy, right from the first step.
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What’s the difference between oil and water-based cleansers?
Cleansers may share one goal, but their main ingredients mark the difference. Here’s what to know at a high-level:
- Oil-based cleansers dissolve oil-soluble impurities such as natural oils, sunscreen, and makeup.
- Water-based cleansers dissolve water-soluble debris like sweat, dirt, and environmental pollutants.
This is thanks to a simple principle: like attracts like. Oil-based cleansers use emollient oils to break down oily residue that water alone can’t remove, while water-based cleansers rely on gentle surfactants to wash away daily buildup without stripping the skin’s barrier. Meaning that with the right cleansing formula, both can remove water and oil-soluble debris.
Finally, both types can be used alone or together, depending on your skin’s needs.
What is an oil-based cleanser?
These popular cleansers use nourishing oils to attract and lift away oil-based impurities—including sunscreen, foundation, and pollutants—while keeping hydration levels in tact.
How it works
When massaged onto dry skin, the cleansing oil binds to unwanted oils and debris. Add a little water, and the formula emulsifies into a milky texture that rinses clean.
Even better? Science shows that plant-derived oils, especially olive oil, can support the skin’s natural barrier and minimize moisture loss when properly formulated.
A gentle example
A lightweight oil cleanser with ingredients like olive oil and sclareolide (from clary sage) can effectively remove makeup and SPF while helping the skin feel soft and balanced—even for oily or sensitive types.
Expert tip: Apply your oil-based cleanser with dry hands on dry skin, gently massage, then emulsify with lukewarm water. Avoid hot water, which can disrupt your moisture barrier.
What is a water-based cleanser?
These gels, foams, and creams use water as their base and target water-soluble impurities like dirt, sweat, and some pollution. They’re ideal for everyday cleansing or refreshing the skin after an oil-based step.
How it works
Water-based cleansers contain gentle surfactants (cleansing agents) and hydrating ingredients like glycerin or botanical extracts. The goal is to cleanse the skin’s surface without over-drying or compromising its natural balance.
Try this
A foaming cleanser made with olive leaf extract—rich in antioxidant polyphenols—helps purify the skin while maintaining essential moisture. Soothing ingredients like lavender extract can calm and refresh, helping the skin feel balanced and comfortable.
Expert tip: Cleanse for about 30 seconds using gentle circular motions. This gives your formula time to lift away buildup effectively while waking up circulation.
What about exfoliating cleansers?
Exfoliating cleansers add a polishing step to your routine, helping to remove dead skin that can dull your complexion or block pores. They’re typically water-based gels or scrubs.
How it works
Mild exfoliating cleansers often use fine particles or gentle acids to smooth texture and promote skin turnover. The right formula can boost brightness and provide the perfect canvas for serums and moisturizers.
Try this
A daily exfoliating gel cleanser containing olive seed particles and hydrating plant extracts can refine skin texture while keeping it soft and smooth—especially ideal for blemish-prone skin.
Expert tip: On heavy makeup days, opt for a double cleanse in your evening routine. Start with your favorite oil cleanser and then follow up with a foaming or exfoliating water-based cleanser to rinse the day away.
Which is better: oil or water-based cleanser?
Here’s the truth, it’s not about one being better. Each has its own set of strengths:
| Skin concern | Oil-based cleanser | Water-based cleanser |
|---|---|---|
| Water resistant makeup & sunscreen removal | Ideal | Effective |
| Dirt & sweat removal | Effective | Ideal |
| Hydration | High | Depends |
| For oily skin | Balancing | Purifying |
| For dry or sensitive skin | Nourishing | Gentle |
Which cleanser is right for my skin?
Remember, happy skin shouldn’t feel tight after cleansing. If it does, your cleanser might be too harsh or overused. Otherwise, here are some quick guidelines based on your skin type:
- Dry or sensitive skin: Try an oil-based cleanser for comfort and hydration.
- Oily or acne-prone skin: Use a gentle, non-comedogenic oil cleanser to lift away excess oil, followed by an exfoliating cleanser.
- Combination skin: Alternate between foaming and oil cleansers depending on how your skin feels.
- Normal skin: Most can benefit from both types—choose based on your environment and daily routine.
Expert tip: ISDIN cleansers are designed for all skin types, so feel free to mix and match.
A clean slate
Cleansing isn’t just the first step, it’s the foundation of every skincare routine. Whether you prefer the nourishing comfort of an oil-based formula or the refreshing feel of a water-based one, the key is choosing gentle products that respect your skin’s natural state.
And for days when your skin needs more? Double cleansing offers the best of both worlds: effective, balanced, and science-backed care.
Healthy skin starts with clean skin—and it all starts with finding the right cleansing routine for you.
Behind the blog:
Article written and reviewed by:
Amy is a content strategist who turned a part-time obsession with skincare into a full-time passion. Her experience as a creative storyteller includes a range of lifestyle and technology topics across Washington D.C. and Barcelona. What's in her travel bag? Eye contour cream and sunscreen, always.
