Top 10+ best Japanese cleansing oil for soft and smooth skin
Japanese cleansing oil is your go-to solution for soft, smooth, and deeply cleansed skin, without compromising hydration. Whether your skin is dry, oily, or sensitive, this gentle yet powerful Japanese makeup remover oil dissolves makeup, sunscreen, and buildup with ease. Let’s explore the best of Japanese cleansing oils with Japan With Love and find your perfect match for clean, radiant skin.
1. What is Japanese cleansing oil and what sets it apart?
Japanese cleansing oil is an oil-based facial cleanser designed to dissolve oil-based debris like makeup, excess sebum, and sunscreen. It’s the cornerstone of Japan’s “double cleansing” ritual, loved for its ability to leave skin clean, hydrated, and smooth without irritation.
This skincare method is backed by experts like dermatologist Dr. Shari Marchbein, who explains that oil cleansers work because “like dissolves like”, meaning oil lifts away oil-based impurities more effectively than water alone.
What sets Japanese cleansing oil apart:
-
Emulsifying technology: Turns milky with water for easy rinsing, no greasy residue.
-
Minimalist, skin-friendly ingredients: Free from harsh surfactants or fragrances.
-
Gentle on all skin types: Works for dry, oily, combination, or acne-prone skin.
-
Hydration-focused formulas: Nourish while cleansing, thanks to ingredients like rice bran oil, olive oil, or hyaluronic acid.
-
Part of the double cleanse: Prepares skin for deeper absorption of toner, serum, and moisturizer.
>>> New to J-beauty? Check out this list of the 7+ best Japanese makeup removers to add to your skincare routine.
2. Top 10+ best Japanese cleansing oil to shop in 2025
From cult classics to dermatologist-loved formulas, Japanese cleansing oils offer something for every skin type and concern. Below, we’ve curated the top 10+ best Japanese cleansing oils that customers worldwide swear by for soft, smooth, and glowing skin.
-
HadaLabo Gokujyun Oil Cleansing
-
Kose Sekkisei Treatment Cleansing Oil
-
Three Balancing Cleansing Oil R
-
Shu Uemura Fresh Clear Cherry Cleansing Oil
-
DHC Japan Medicated Deep Cleansing Oil
-
Hatomugi Cleansing Oil
-
Fancl Mild Cleansing Oil
-
Muji Mild Cleansing Oil
-
Kikumasamune Rice Made+ Mild Cleansing Oil
-
Softymo White Cleansing Oil
2.1. HadaLabo Gokujyun Oil Cleansing
A top-rated pick for dry and combination skin, HadaLabo Gokujyun Oil Cleansing combines the cleansing power of oils with the deep hydration of hyaluronic acid. Formulated with olive and jojoba oils, it gently dissolves makeup, sunscreen, and excess sebum without clogging pores or irritating the skin. The dual hyaluronic acid helps maintain moisture even after rinsing, making it a favorite for users seeking soft, plump skin after cleansing. This oil has a lightweight, non-sticky texture that emulsifies quickly and rinses off easily without leaving residue.
-
Skin type: Dry, combination, and dehydrated skin
-
Key ingredients: Olive oil, jojoba oil, two types of hyaluronic acid
-
Unique feature: Deep hydration with clean rinse; fragrance-free formula
-
Free from: Fragrance, colorants, alcohol, mineral oil
2.2. Kose Sekkisei Treatment Cleansing Oil
Blending effective cleansing with brightening herbal care, Kose Sekkisei Treatment Cleansing Oil is ideal for dull, tired-looking, or pigmented skin. It features traditional botanical extracts such as coix seed, angelica root, and melothria, which are known to enhance radiance and clarity over time. With its smooth texture and refreshing floral scent, this oil easily melts away heavy makeup and emulsifies cleanly, offering a spa-like cleansing ritual while gradually brightening the skin.
-
Skin type: Dull, uneven tone, pigmented skin
-
Key ingredients: Coix seed, angelica root, melothria extract
-
Unique feature: Herbal-based brightening + soft, luxurious finish
-
Free from: Parabens, alcohol, synthetic dyes
2.3. Three Balancing Cleansing Oil R
Three Balancing Cleansing Oil R is a luxury organic cleansing oil designed to restore skin balance while offering a calming sensory experience. Packed with essential oils and botanical extracts, it gently dissolves makeup and sebum while nourishing the skin barrier. Its silky texture glides effortlessly across the skin and emulsifies into a lightweight milk when rinsed with water, leaving the skin clean yet comforted.
This oil is especially ideal for those with sensitive, hormonal, or stressed skin. With ingredients carefully selected from plant-based sources, it delivers a therapeutic, spa-like feel during application. The scent, infused with ylang ylang and bergamot, also helps ease mental tension—turning your cleansing step into a moment of self-care.
-
Skin type: All skin types, especially sensitive or stressed
-
Key ingredients: Tea seed oil, jojoba oil, ylang ylang, bergamot, frankincense
-
Unique feature: Certified organic oils with an aromatherapeutic formula
-
Free from: Mineral oil, synthetic fragrance, parabens, alcohol
2.4. Shu Uemura Fresh Clear Cherry Cleansing Oil
A staple from one of Japan’s most iconic beauty brands, Shu Uemura Fresh Clear Cherry Cleansing Oil is specially designed for oily and acne-prone skin. Infused with sakura extract and Lipo HA, this cleansing oil targets excess sebum, clogged pores, and dullness without stripping the skin. It provides a refreshing, lightweight feel that purifies the skin while supporting a smoother, more refined texture.
Perfect for summer or humid climates, the formula rinses clean and leaves no greasy residue. It’s particularly well-loved by those who experience midday shine or frequent breakouts, thanks to its oil-balancing effects and gentle resurfacing properties.
-
Skin type: Oily, acne-prone, and combination skin
-
Key ingredients: Sakura (cherry blossom) extract, Lipo HA, salicylic acid derivative
-
Unique feature: Targets clogged pores and sebum with a lightweight, cooling finish
-
Free from: Parabens, alcohol, heavy silicones
2.5. DHC Japan Medicated Deep Cleansing Oil
A global cult favorite, DHC Deep Cleansing Oil is often the first Japanese oil cleanser skincare lovers try—and for good reason. Its star ingredient, organic olive oil, closely resembles the skin’s natural oils, allowing it to dissolve makeup (even waterproof mascara), sunscreen, and impurities effectively. The formula also contains vitamin E and rosemary leaf extract, which provide antioxidant protection while calming the skin.
What sets this product apart is its unmatched ability to cleanse thoroughly without drying or irritating the skin. Its rich texture emulsifies beautifully with water and rinses off clean, leaving skin soft, refreshed, and never greasy. Suitable for all skin types, it’s especially appreciated by those looking for a no-fuss, reliable oil cleanser that consistently delivers visible results.
-
Skin type: All skin types, including mature and sensitive
-
Key ingredients: Organic olive oil, vitamin E, rosemary leaf extract
-
Unique feature: Iconic formula that removes even waterproof makeup
-
Free from: Fragrance, colorants, parabens, mineral oil
>>> Interested in reading more about DHC cleansing oil? Check out this detailed DHC deep cleansing oil review for more tips and tricks when using the product.
2.6. Hatomugi Cleansing Oil
Gentle yet effective, Hatomugi Cleansing Oil is formulated with Job's Tears (hatomugi) extract, a traditional Japanese ingredient known for its moisturizing and skin-smoothing properties. This oil cleanser offers a lightweight texture that effortlessly melts away makeup, sunscreen, and daily grime while improving skin clarity and hydration with regular use.
Ideal for dry or rough skin, it leaves a soft, smooth finish without any greasy after-feel. It’s also a great everyday option for those new to oil cleansing or looking for a simple, hydrating formula that balances effectiveness with affordability.
-
Skin type: Dry, rough, flaky, or dehydrated skin
-
Key ingredients: Hatomugi (Job’s Tears) extract, mineral oil, plant-derived emollients
-
Unique feature: Moisturizing and brightening benefits from traditional Japanese ingredients
-
Free from: Alcohol, artificial fragrance, parabens
2.7. Fancl Mild Cleansing Oil
Fancl Mild Cleansing Oil is a top choice for sensitive skin, thanks to its preservative-free, fragrance-free formula designed to minimize irritation. This gentle yet effective cleanser uses meadowfoam seed oil and rosemary extract to remove even the most stubborn makeup and sunscreen without disrupting the skin’s moisture balance. Its silky texture spreads easily across the face, emulsifies quickly, and rinses clean—leaving no oily residue behind.
Because it’s free from preservatives and oxidizing agents, this oil is packaged in an airtight bottle and recommended for use within 60 days of opening, ensuring freshness and skin safety. It’s a favorite among minimalists, those with allergies, and anyone seeking a cleansing oil that respects even the most reactive skin.
-
Skin type: Sensitive, reactive, and allergy-prone skin
-
Key ingredients: Meadowfoam seed oil, rosemary oil
-
Unique feature: Preservative-free with a 60-day freshness window
-
Free from: Fragrance, preservatives, parabens, alcohol, mineral oil
2.8. Muji Mild Cleansing Oil
Simple, effective, and budget-friendly, Muji Mild Cleansing Oil is a no-frills oil cleanser that delivers exactly what your skin needs. It uses a blend of olive and jojoba oils to lift makeup, dirt, and sebum while maintaining hydration. The medium-bodied texture spreads smoothly and rinses off without clogging pores, making it ideal for daily use on normal to combination skin.
True to Muji’s minimalist ethos, this cleansing oil contains only essential ingredients—no synthetic fragrances, dyes, or parabens. It's a solid choice for anyone looking to start with Japanese oil cleansing or keep their skincare routine low-key but effective.
-
Skin type: Normal, combination, and beginner-friendly
-
Key ingredients: Olive oil, jojoba oil
-
Unique feature: Minimalist, clean formulation with reliable performance
-
Free from: Artificial fragrance, colorants, parabens, mineral oil
2.9. Kikumasamune Rice Made+ Mild Cleansing Oil
From the makers of Japan’s iconic sake-based skincare line, Kikumasamune Rice Made+ Mild Cleansing Oil is rich in fermented rice extract—known for its skin-brightening and moisturizing effects. This cleansing oil melts away makeup and impurities while supporting skin barrier health with ceramides and amino acids. Its smooth texture glides easily over the skin and emulsifies into a milky rinse without leaving a greasy film.
Ideal for those dealing with dryness, dullness, or early signs of aging, this oil enhances radiance and elasticity over time. It also carries a soft sake-inspired aroma that adds a touch of tradition to your evening routine. For those who love the brightening benefits of rice-derived ingredients, this is a gentle yet effective oil cleanser worth trying.
-
Skin type: Dull, dry, or aging skin
-
Key ingredients: Fermented rice extract (sake), ceramides, amino acids
-
Unique feature: Brightens and firms using traditional Japanese fermentation
-
Free from: Parabens, mineral oil, artificial dyes
2.10. Softymo White Cleansing Oil
Softymo White Cleansing Oil by Kose is a drugstore hero in Japan, praised for its ability to deeply cleanse and brighten the skin at an accessible price. It contains a blend of rice bran oil, jojoba oil, and mineral oil to dissolve heavy makeup and impurities, while added brightening agents help reduce dullness with regular use. The texture is smooth and fast-emulsifying, making it ideal for busy routines.
It’s especially suitable for those with normal, oily, or slightly uneven skin tone, offering both cleansing power and a subtle radiance boost. This oil is a great entry point into J-beauty and a reliable staple for those who want quick, effective cleansing without compromising skin tone clarity.
-
Skin type: Normal, oily, and dull skin
-
Key ingredients: Rice bran oil, jojoba oil, mineral oil, brightening agents
-
Unique feature: Deep-cleansing and brightening in one step
-
Free from: Artificial colorants, parabens, alcohol
>>> Check out our full review on the Softymo cleansing oil for more helpful insights and information related to the product.
3. How to use Japanese cleansing oil step-by-step
Using Japanese oil cleanser the right way can maximize its benefits and help you maintain soft, clear, and balanced skin. Here’s how to do it:
-
Step 1: Start with dry hands and a dry face: Pump 1–2 pumps of cleansing oil into your palms.
-
Step 2: Gently massage onto your face: Focus on areas with makeup, SPF, or excess sebum. Use circular motions for 30–60 seconds.
-
Step 3: Emulsify with water: Wet your hands slightly and massage again. The oil will turn milky, this helps lift away dirt and impurities.
-
Step 4: Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water: Make sure all residue is gone. You’ll feel a smooth, clean finish without tightness.
-
Step 5 (Optional but recommended): Follow with a foam or gel cleanser: This second step removes any water-based dirt or sweat and preps your skin for toners and serums.
4. FAQs - People also ask about what comes after Japanese makeup remover oil step
After cleansing with Japanese makeup remover oil, many users have questions about what to do next or how to best use this product. Below, we answer the most common ones to help you build a smooth and effective routine.
4.1. What is the best Japanese oil cleanser?
It depends on your skin type. For dry skin, DHC Deep Cleansing Oil is ideal. For sensitive skin, go with Fancl Mild Cleansing Oil. For oily skin, Shu Uemura Fresh Clear Oil is a top choice.
4.2. Does cleansing oil need to be washed off?
Yes. Always rinse thoroughly after emulsifying the oil with water to remove dirt, makeup, and excess oil from your skin.
4.3. What comes after cleansing oil?
Follow with a water-based cleanser (gel or foam) to remove any leftover residue. Then apply toner, serum, and moisturizer.
4.4. What are the disadvantages of oil cleansing?
If not rinsed properly, oil residue may clog pores or cause breakouts, especially if you skip the second cleanser. Choose non-comedogenic formulas.
4.5. Can you use cleansing oil every day?
Yes. Japanese cleansing oil is designed for daily use, especially if you wear sunscreen or makeup. It's gentle and hydrating.
4.6. What makes J-beauty so effective?
Japanese beauty emphasizes simplicity, skin balance, and long-term skin health. Products often feature time-tested ingredients like rice bran, green tea, and sake.
Incorporating Japanese cleansing oil into your daily routine is one of the simplest, most effective ways to achieve clean, soft, and hydrated skin, no matter your skin type. These oils not only remove makeup and excess oil but also nourish your skin, prep it for the rest of your routine, and protect your moisture barrier. Browse our curated collection of the best Japanese cleansing oils at Japan With Love and find your perfect match today. Your soft, smooth skin starts here.
Leave a comment