Oil-Based Cleansers vs. Water-Based Cleansers: Which One Is Right for You?

Oil-based cleanser vs. water-based cleansers

We'll rundown the two formulas in detail, but to put it briefly:

Water-based cleansers contain water as their primary ingredient. They are an effective option for removing water-soluble particles (like sweat and dirt) and are often formulated as gel cleansers and foaming cleansers.

Oil-based cleansers primarily feature oil-based ingredients. They work well for removing oil-soluble impurities (like excess sebum, sunscreen, and makeup) and are often formulated as cleansing oils and cleansing balms.

What is a water-based cleanser?

As the name implies, water-based cleansers are formulated with water as their main ingredient. When compared to oil-based cleansers, water-based cleansers will always contain more water content (you can confirm this by checking the ingredients on the back of the product label). You’ll often find water-based cleansers formulated as gels or foaming cleansers.

Water-based cleansers thoroughly remove sweat, dirt, and other water-soluble particles from your skin’s surface. Water-based cleansers tend to offer a deeper cleanse compared to oil-based facial cleansers.

Who should use a water-based cleanser?

Water-based cleansers are usually suitable for all skin types, but tend to be preferred by those with normal, oily, combination, and blemish-prone skin. They’re also a great choice in hotter, more humid climates as they can remove excess oil buildup and sweat for a fresh face.

What is an oil-based cleanser?

Oil-based cleansers are formulated with nourishing oils as their primary ingredient. This typically gives oil-based facial cleansers a richer texture and a more intensely moisturizing feel. Often formulated as cleansing oils and cleansing balms, oil-based cleansers remove oil-soluble impurities from your skin—like excess sebum, sunscreen, and makeup (including waterproof makeup).

Who should use an oil-based cleanser?

Generally speaking, all skin types can use oil-based cleansers, as long as you choose a formula that’s gentle on the skin and non-comedogenic (meaning it won’t clog your pores). These types of cleansers tend to be favorites among makeup wearers and people with dry, sensitive, and eczema-prone skin seeking a gentle, non-drying cleanser. They also make great options for anyone seeking a nourishing formula that leaves your skin feeling replenished, soft, and smooth. Oil-based facial cleansers are also a must-have for double cleansing.

Is water-based or oil-based cleanser better?

Water-based cleansers and oil-based cleansers can both make effective cleansing options, as long as you choose a gentle, non-drying formula that’s suitable for your skin type. While neither is “better” than the other, water-based cleansers are what most people think of when picturing a traditional face wash. But some people might consider incorporating both an oil-based and water-based face wash, an approach known as double cleansing.

What is double cleansing?

The double cleansing method is done by washing your face twice—first with a water-soluble cleanser and then with an oil-soluble cleanser. The idea behind double cleansing is that, by using both types of cleansers, you will be able to deeply cleanse your skin and remove all types of pore-clogging impurities (water-soluble and oil-soluble) from your skin’s surface.

Double cleansing is typically done in the evening and can be a useful practice for some skin types, like oily skin. But it might not be suitable for all skin types, so consider consulting with a dermatologist to discuss the right cleansing approach for you.

Should You Use an Oil-Based or Water-Based Cleanser First?

If double cleansing is part of your evening routine, it’s important to apply your cleansers in the correct order. Begin by washing your face with an oil-based cleanser, rinse, then apply your water-based cleanser. Pat your face dry with a soft towel and continue on with the rest of your skincare routine.

CeraVe's water-based cleansers

CeraVe’s water-based cleansers are available in a variety of formulas to suit all skin types and preferences.

SA Smoothing Cleanser

The SA Smoothing Cleanser gently cleanses and exfoliates your skin without disrupting its protective moisture barrier. We recommend trying this non-drying face wash if you have rough, bumpy skin or dry skin on the face prone to redness.

CTA: Shop the SA Smoothing Cleanser

Hydrating Facial Cleanser

An option for normal to dry skin is CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser, a gentle face wash with ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and MVE Delivery Technology. This face wash removes dirt, light makeup, and other debris without stripping the skin of its natural moisture.

CTA: Shop the Hydrating Facial Cleanser

Foaming Oil Free Cleanser

CeraVe Foaming Oil Free Cleanser, which gently cleanses your skin and removes excess oil without impacting your skin moisture barrier. This cleanser is recommended for very oily skin or skin prone to breakouts.

CTA: Shop the Foaming Oil Free Cleanser

CeraVe's oil-based cleansers

Hydrating Foaming Oil-Based Cleanser

CeraVe’s Hydrating Foaming Oil-Based Cleanser gentle cleanses while replenishing the skin's moisture levels. The ultra-foaming formula, containing hydrating squalene oil, is non-comedogenic and fragrance-free, suitable for allergy-prone skin, dry skin and baby skin.

CTA: Shop the Hydrating Foaming Oil-Based Cleanser

Find your skin type

For help choosing the right products for your specific skin type and skin concerns, take our CeraVe Skincare Quiz.