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

What Is a Water-Based Cleanser?

As the name implies, water-based cleansers are formulated with water as their main ingredient. When compared to cleansers with oil, 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, but they’re also available in other varieties, such as micellar waters.

Water-based cleansers thoroughly remove sweat, dirt, and other water-soluble particles from your skin’s surface. 

Who Should Use a Water-Based Cleanser?

Water-based cleansers can be used by most skin types, depending on the formulation. The CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser, for example, is best for normal to dry skin. 

With that said, water-based formulas tend to be preferred by those with normal, oily, combination, and acne-prone skin. options for all skin types—our Hydrating Cleanser is best for normal to dry skin, for example. They’re also a great choice for anyone wanting their skin to feel refreshed and thoroughly cleansed—especially during the hot, humid summer months.

What Is a Cleanser with Oil?

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

Who Should Use a Cleanser with Oil?

Generally speaking, all skin types can use cleansers with oil, as long as you choose a formula that’s gentle on the skin and non-comedogenic (meaning it won’t clog your pores)—like CeraVe Hydrating Foaming Oil Cleanser. 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. Facial cleansers with oil are also a must-have for double cleansing (more on this ahead).

Is Water-Based or Cleansers with Oil Better?

Water-based cleansers and cleansers with oil 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. Cleansers with oil, on the other hand, have emerged as a popular cleansing option alongside K-beauty (Korean beauty) skincare trends—like double cleansing.

The double cleansing method is done by washing your face twice—first with an oil-soluble cleanser (like CeraVe Hydrating Foaming Oil Cleanser) and then with a water-soluble cleanser (like CeraVe Hydrating Cream-to-Foam 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. However, it may not be suitable for everyone. Always consult a board-certified dermatologist when in doubt to see if double cleansing is right for you. 

Should You Use a Cleanser with Oil 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 a cleanser with oil, 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. 

For anyone seeking an even gentler approach to double cleansing, you can replace the first step (oil cleansing) with a fragrance-free cleansing water—we recommend CeraVe Hydrating Micellar Water. This ultra-gentle, no-rinse micellar water with ceramides and niacinamide cleanses, hydrates, and removes makeup without disrupting the skin’s natural moisture barrier.

How To Choose a Water-Based Cleanser

CeraVe’s water-based cleansers are available in a variety of formulas to suit all skin types and preferences. Read on for a breakdown of each type, so that you can find the right water-based face wash for your skin’s needs.

Gel cleansers

Gel cleansers usually feature a thin, gel-like consistency that’s ideal for anyone who prefers a lightweight cleanser option. These cleansers can often be used to remove light makeup and leave your skin feeling fresh and free of impurities. Some traditional gel cleansers don’t produce a lather, while others may transition to a foam texture when applied—such as CeraVe Renewing SA Cleanser. This salicylic acid face wash gently cleanses and exfoliates your skin without disrupting its protective barrier. We recommend trying this non-drying face wash if you have normal skin, acne-prone skin, or simply want to reveal smoother, softer-feeling skin.

Cream and lotion cleansers

These cleansers make a great pick if you want a hydrating, soothing cleanser option that has a silky texture and a comforting feel. They’re often preferred by those with dry skin in need of extra moisture. However, depending on the formulation, most skin types can enjoy the benefits of a cream or lotion cleanser.

One 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. For those who prefer a convenient bar soap option, try our Hydrating Cleanser Bar.

Foaming cleansers

Foaming facial cleansers are popular among people with oily skin and acne-prone skin. These formulas effectively remove dirt, excess oil, and light makeup, and can range from a mild bubbling lather to a full-on foam. They’re also ideal for anyone seeking deep-cleansing benefits and a refreshed, extra-clean feel. 

One great option to consider for normal to oily skin is CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser, which gently cleanses your skin and removes excess oil without disrupting your skin barrier. You can also opt for an easy-to-use bar cleanser version, like our soap-free Foaming Cleanser Bar.

Micellar waters 

Micellar waters, such as CeraVe Hydrating Micellar Water, are liquid formulas that are applied after your face wash. They can offer an ultra-gentle way to remove excess oil, makeup, and dirt without having to rinse. Our fragrance-free Hydrating Micellar Water is suitable for all skin types (including sensitive skin) and gentle enough to use around sensitive eyes.

How To Choose a Cleanser with Oil

CeraVe’s cleansers with oil come in two gentle yet effective formulations—a makeup-removing cleansing balm and a lightweight cleansing oil. Learn more about our oil-based formulas, below.

Cleansing oil

Cleansing oils have a rich, liquid consistency that emulsifies when lathered with water. If you prefer a liquid oil cleanser, we suggest choosing a non-comedogenic formula that’s residue-free and lightweight. Look for cleansing oils with nourishing, oil-based ingredients (like squalane oil) that are formulated to effectively remove excess sebum without leaving your skin feeling tight or dry.

Cleansing balm

Cleansing balms often feature a thick, semi-solid consistency and a buttery, rich texture. These formulas tend to have no lather and melt onto your skin when applied, gently breaking down makeup, excess oil, sunscreen, and other grime in the process. We recommend trying CeraVe Makeup Removing Cleanser Balm for makeup removal or as part of a double cleansing routine. It’s suitable for all skin types and leaves your skin feeling hydrated, comforted, and soft after use.

For help choosing the right products for your specific skin type and skin concerns, use our Find My Skincare Solution tool.