Cleansing is the most essential step in any skincare routine, yet it's often misunderstood or rushed. Many people use a single product and wonder why their skin still feels dull, oily, or irritated. The truth is, cleansing isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution. To get truly clean and healthy skin, especially in climates like Pakistan’s, you may need more than just a single face cleanser — you may need to add an oil cleanser into the mix.
Let’s explore how both types of cleansers work, and why combining them could be the game-changer your skin has been waiting for.
What Is a Face Cleanser?
A face cleanser is designed to remove dirt, sweat, bacteria, and water-based impurities from the skin. Most face cleansers come in gel, cream, or foam form, and they’re typically used with water to wash away daily grime. A good face cleanser balances cleansing power with gentleness, so it doesn’t strip your skin’s natural oils or disrupt its barrier.
The key to choosing the right cleanser is to understand your skin type. For oily skin, a gel-based face cleanser with ingredients like salicylic acid works best. For dry or sensitive skin, cream or milk cleansers with hydrating components like aloe vera or glycerin are ideal.
What Is an Oil Cleanser and Why Use One?
An oil cleanser is exactly what it sounds like — a cleansing product made primarily with oils. It may seem counterintuitive to use oil to clean your skin, especially if you struggle with breakouts or shine. But here’s the science: oil attracts oil. An oil cleanser dissolves makeup, sunscreen, and excess sebum more effectively than water-based cleansers alone.
This makes oil cleansers particularly useful for removing stubborn impurities like waterproof mascara, heavy foundation, and pollution buildup — all without stripping the skin or causing tightness. In fact, many oil cleansers contain nourishing ingredients that soothe and moisturize the skin while cleansing it.
Why You Should Double Cleanse
If you're serious about skincare, double cleansing is a method worth trying. It involves using an oil cleanser first to remove oil-based debris (like makeup and sunscreen), followed by a face cleanser to wash away water-based dirt and sweat.
This two-step method ensures your skin is truly clean, allowing your serums, moisturizers, and treatments to penetrate better and work more effectively. Double cleansing is especially helpful at night after a long day of wearing makeup or being outdoors.
Many dermatologists recommend double cleansing for people with acne-prone, oily, or combination skin — but even dry skin types can benefit, as long as the products used are gentle and hydrating.
Choosing the Right Face Cleanser and Oil Cleanser
Not all cleansers are created equal. When shopping for a face cleanser, look for products that are free from harsh ingredients like sulfates, alcohol, and synthetic fragrance. The same applies to oil cleansers — opt for formulas that use non-comedogenic oils such as jojoba, sunflower, or grapeseed, especially if you’re prone to breakouts.
In Pakistan, you’ll find both local and international skincare brands offering high-quality oil cleansers and face cleansers suited for various skin types. Shopping online through trusted platforms or checking ingredients carefully can help you find the perfect match for your routine.
Final Thoughts
A great skincare routine starts with effective cleansing. While a single face cleanser may do the job on lighter days, adding an oil cleanser into your routine can elevate your skin's clarity, hydration, and overall health.
So if your skin still feels congested, oily, or dull after cleansing, it might be time to upgrade your approach. Try double cleansing with the right face cleanser and oil cleanser, and you may just unlock the glow you’ve been chasing all along.
