Are you sitting down? Because this might surprise you. Something you probably do every day but didn’t realise could be harsh on your skin is cleansing your face with soap and hot water. While soap certainly cleans, it can sometimes leave skin feeling tight or dry. An alternative that has gained popularity in recent years is oil cleansing – a gentler option that many people find helps keep skin balanced and comfortable.
Soap and Hot Water Can Be Too Harsh
Yes, you read that correctly. Soap and hot water may strip away the skin’s natural oils and hydration. This can leave the skin feeling tight, dry, or more sensitive than before. If you’ve ever noticed your face feeling parched or uncomfortable after hot water cleansing, that’s your confirmation. A gentler approach that helps maintain balance is oil cleansing.
How Oil Cleansers Work
Oil cleansers work on the principle of “like dissolves like.” They dissolve makeup, excess sebum, and impurities, while leaving the skin’s natural barrier intact. This means they can remove buildup without stripping away the protective oils your skin needs. The result is a feeling of balance rather than over-dryness.
The Transition Period
Gentle oil-based cleansers remove dirt, makeup, and impurities without disrupting the skin’s natural barrier. If you’re not sure which to try, you might want to explore our Comforting Baobab Balm Cleanser or Replenishing Sea Buckthorn Balm Cleanser.
When you first switch to oil cleansing, your skin may need time to adjust. It might initially feel different – even slightly oily – as your skin rebalances from regular soap use. Some people also notice that dead skin cells or buildup begin to clear. With continued use, the skin often adapts and feels more comfortable.
If after a few weeks you feel that a balm cleanser is too rich for your skin, you can try a micellar cleansing water or a lighter oil-based cleanser to restore a fresher feel.
Oil cleansing may seem counter-intuitive, but it can be a gentle way to cleanse without over-drying. If your skin feels tight after soap, why not explore oil cleansing as an alternative?
Soap vs. Oil Cleansing at a Glance
| Soap Cleansing | Oil Cleansing |
|---|---|
| May strip away natural oils and leave skin tight | Helps dissolve makeup, dirt, and excess sebum without stripping |
| Often works with foam and surfactants | Uses the principle of “like dissolves like” |
| Can feel harsh on dry or sensitive skin | Gentle, suitable for balancing stressed or delicate skin |
| Quick foaming cleanse, familiar ritual | Creamy or balm-like texture, leaves skin soft and comfortable |
