A well-known rule of thumb in chemistry is the principle that “like dissolves like.” This means that substances with similar properties can dissolve into one another—so in this case, oil dissolves oil.

When cleansing the skin, the goal is to remove surface dirt, excess oil, grime, and dead skin cells that can clog pores. The beauty of using an oil cleanser is that it gently breaks down and lifts away this buildup without stripping the skin. What’s left behind is a clean, nourished complexion and a happy, undisturbed skin barrier.

Facial cleansing is a key part of any skincare routine—but over-cleansing or using the wrong cleanser can strip away the skin’s natural oils, which are essential components of the skin barrier.

The skin barrier is the outermost layer of the skin, made up of cholesterol, lipids, proteins, and ceramides. Its primary job is to lock in moisture while keeping out harmful irritants and infectious agents [1]. The skin microbiome also plays a vital role in defending against acne-causing microbes and maintaining overall skin health.

How oil cleansing supports the skin barrier:

• Antioxidant protection: High-quality oils found in oil-based cleansers are rich in antioxidants, which help fight free radicals known to damage the skin barrier.
  
  
• Microbiome support: Some oils, like jojoba oil, encourage the growth of beneficial bacteria that help the skin microbiome function at its best [2].
  
  
• Barrier-friendly cleansing: Unlike harsh cleansers, the right oils gently remove dirt and impurities without disrupting the skin’s natural oils.
  
  

A skincare routine that focuses on nourishing and protecting both the skin barrier and microbiome is one of the best ways to support healthy, resilient skin.

Oil cleansers can absolutely benefit acne-prone skin—and in fact, this method works well for all skin types. It gently but effectively cleanses the skin, supports a balanced microbiome, locks in moisture, and avoids stripping the skin of its natural oils.

All of these things are especially important for acne-prone skin, which often needs a gentler, more supportive approach to cleansing.

Yes! Because the oil cleansing method is so gentle, it’s safe to use daily. In fact, we recommend simply rinsing your face with water in the morning and using your oil cleanser at night.

Many of our customers have seen noticeable improvements in their skin after switching from cleansing twice a day to just once in the evening. More often than not, once a day is all your skin really needs—anything more can actually do more harm than good.