Unless I am mistaken, cleansing oil is a phenomenon that started in Asia. Touted to be a product that removes makeup, deep-cleanses the skin, and even eventually reduces blackheads (some , cleansing oil holds all kinds of fantastic promises. I was seriously tempted many times when I was younger, but at the same time some people claim it breaks them out so I never did. It is not until a month or so ago that I tried my first oil cleanser: Bobbi Brown Soothing Cleansing Oil.
The Soothing Cleansing Oil replaces the old version of Cleansing Oil, and is dubbed as “luxury meets simplicity.” It boasts jasmine flower extract, kukui oil, and a blend of olive, sunflower, and jojoba oil. It comes in a 200ml bottle. The packaging is simple yet sturdy. I really like the pump, as you can lock it by just turning it. You might not normally have to lock it, but I traveled with this to Taipei and I really appreciated how sturdy and secure the pump is!
The texture of the cleanser is very pleasant. It doesn’t feel heavy or greasy, and it glides on the skin easily. This might sound like a weird thing to say about a cleansing “oil,” but my experience with dry oils and so on has taught me that not all oils are made equal! It smells faintly like lavender, which I personally adore! The smell is definitely not strong though, and I think even those who don’t like strong scents in their skincare should be fine with it.
The process is fairly standard. I start with a dry face and dry hands (water emulsifies the oil to remove makeup, and it is not supposed to happen until you have massaged it around), and 2-3 pumps of the oil (don’t skimp). Massage it around your face. It is effective against waterproof makeup, so I never need a separate remover for my waterproof mascara/eyeliner. To avoid tugging on my eye area, I first cover my eyes with fingertips that hold a bit of the cleanser for a while before massaging them gently. I always look like a raccoon or a masked bandit when this part is done, but it’s worth it!
Now it’s time to get your hands wet with some warm water. Don’t scoop water and rinse your face yet! Just massage your face again with wet hands. You will see the oil turning a bit white, and that is normal. Once the oil has been emulsified, you can finally rinse your face with warm water. Emulsification is an important step in using an oil cleanser. If you skip this part, it will be next to impossible to remove the oil properly (in that case, the oil might clog your pores instead). After you pat it dry, you are more than likely to see very clean yet radiant skin! I have checked with a cotton pad and toner afterwards. Nothing more came off!
When I went on holiday I only wanted to take one cleanser, and the Soothing Cleansing Oil was the obvious choice. I still love my Bioderma, but I knew I was going to use more waterproof products and it wouldn’t rise to the challenge. With this cleansing oil however, cleaning my face by the end of the day was a piece of cake. I wore my BB cream every day, and with the heat and humidity my oil glands were really active. Still, a good massage with the Soothing Cleansing Oil was all I needed to have purified skin!
I really appreciate how gentle it is on the eyes as well. I have tried sample packets of cleansing oil that sting my eyes, but with this one I am not afraid to open my eyes and check if all my eye makeup has been properly melted. I have never experienced any stinging or discomfort! I have continued to use this on a daily basis, and I can say confidently this doesn’t break me out. It doesn’t leave my skin dry either, though of course I wouldn’t advise you to skip your daily routine afterwards!
Bottom line: The Bobbi Brown Soothing Cleansing Oil is truly a one-step product that gets rid of the all the grime and dirt at the end of the day. It is simple and pleasant to use. If you’re looking for an oil cleanser, this new kid on the block might be something to take into consideration!
Here is the ingredient list if anyone is interested. Special thanks go to Brooke from Blushing Noir. I received this bottle with no box, and she kindly took a picture of hers with the ingredient list!
Have you tried a cleansing oil? If so, what’s your favorite?
Sunny, your beauty culture translator xx
Disclosure: The product mentioned in this review is provided by the PR for my consideration. All opinions are honest and my own. I am in no way compensated for this review. I have always been, and will always be committed ONLY to my readers.