Cleansing oils are a must-have if you use plenty of make-up. They get rid of stubborn foundation, waterproof mascaras and eyeliners, as well as sunscreen. Cleansing oils are also gentle on the skin and often contain moisturising ingredients. We review the latest ones:
SPLURGE
SHISEIDO PERFECT CLEANSING OIL
$41, from Shiseido counters
Made to quickly and thoroughly remove deep-seated dirt and make-up, while moisturising skin. Contains glycerin and grapeseed oil.
Review: This viscous oil is best used on damp skin. It got rid of my long-wearing foundation and waterproof eyeliner within 15 seconds. However, the waterproof mascara was removed only with repeated wiping for another 30 seconds; I would not use this to clean off my eye make-up.But I loved its floral scent and the way it left my skin feeling more elastic.
MURAD RENEWING CLEANSING OIL FOR FACE, EYES AND LIPS
$60, from Sephora stores
Promises to remove make-up and skin impurities, while making skin supple. The blend is made with soya bean oil, glycerin, jojoba seed oil, sweet almond oil, grapeseed oil and olive oil.
Review: Best used on damp skin, this oil removed the waterproof foundation easily. However, it took me about a minute of wiping to get rid of most of the waterproof liner and mascara. Still, there were make-up stains present.This viscous oil is a fantastic nourishing facial massage oil, though, and it left my skin smooth and supple.
BOSCIA MAKE UP-BREAKUP COOL CLEANSING OIL
$40, from Sephora stores
Concocted to decongest skin and refine its texture with rose hip and green tea ingredients, as well as refresh skin with eucalyptus.
Review: I was impressed with the performance of this thick oil. After about 30 seconds of wiping, it got rid of all traces of the waterproof foundation, long-wearing eyeliner and mascara. After using it, my skin was softer and brighter. But I did not feel much of the refreshing sensation which was promised.
SAVE
SEPHORA SUPREME CLEANSING OIL
$20, from Sephora stores
Made for sensitive skin. Contains jojoba seed oil, cotton seed oil and sunflower seed oil.
Review: I used this thin oil on dry skin. The waterproof eyeliner and long-wearing foundation melted away within 15 seconds. But it took about 45 seconds of vigorous rubbing to remove the waterproof mascara.I liked how the oil did not leave behind a greasy after-feel after I rinsed it off with water.
This article was first run in The Straits Times newspaper on November 7, 2014. For similar stories, go to sph.straitstimes.com/premium/singapore. You will not be able to access the Premium section of The Straits Times website unless you are already a subscriber.