Q: Do I need to follow up with a facial cleanser after using a cleansing oil or is using the latter enough to remove both make-up and facial dirt?
A: It depends on the formulation of the cleansing oil.
For example, Clinique's Take The Day Off Makeup Remover ($45 for 200ml; it also comes in the form of a balm or a milk) is meant only for make-up removal.
After you smooth it on your face using a cotton ball, it should be followed up with a facial cleanser to remove dirt and control the natural oil produced by your skin. This make-up remover is also a one-size-fits-all product that can be used for any skin type.
On the other hand, Shu Uemura's cleansing oils ($56 to $66 for 150ml, $132 to $152 for 450ml) are meant to be used as both make-up remover and cleanser.
Dispense two to four pumps of this product onto dry palms and massage it all over your face. This lifts the oil-based make-up, sunscreen and excess natural oil from your skin. Then, splash your face with water and rub to emulsify the oil so as to remove the dirt.
If you are new to cleansing oil, it may take some time to get used to the way your skin feels after the oil is rinsed off. It is not the squeaky clean, slightly taut feel given by a foaming cleanser, but a more moist and plumped-up sensation. Rinse for a few minutes to remove all traces of the cleansing oil. If your face still feels oily after that, you may have chosen the wrong formulation for your skin type.
Shu Uemura's Fresh cleansing oil is suited for oilier skin types while the Enriched version is for those with dry skin.
My personal favourite is the green tea-scented Premium A/O (for anti-oxidant) formula, which is for all skin types and - I swear - a refreshing lifesaver for days when your skin looks dull and tired.
There is also no harm in following up with a tiny dollop of a gentle foaming facial cleanser if you cannot get used to the feel of a cleansing oil. You would probably save time rinsing - foaming cleansers rinse off more easily - and get an added assurance that all the oil has been washed away.
This article was first published in Urban, The Straits Times on Nov 28, 2008.
