Proper cleansing is the first step to clear skin, which is why I have been practising the Asian Double Cleansing routine for over 10 years now. The routine involves using two complimentary products, normally a cleansing oil to dissolve makeup and sebum followed by a creamy/foamy soap to remove residue and gently exfoliate. I have tried all kinds of products out there and my newly discovered Kanebo Sensai Silky Purifying Cleansing Oil and Silky Purifying Creamy Soap, are handsdown the best!

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Cleansing oils have been a staple in my routine for 10 years now and one of my favorite makeup brands, NARS, has finally joined the bandwagon to give us his very own Makeup Cleansing Oil.

The Makeup Cleansing Oil eliminates makeup traces and flushes out pores for more effective next-step cleansing without leaving any residue. Plus unlike other regular cleansing oils, it is made with exclusive advanced technology so you can apply with either wet or dry hands.

I have been using NARS Aqua Gel Hydrator and Brightening Serum religiously and they have never failed me. I can’t wait to try this out and report back!

The cleansing oil retails $40 and is now available at Neiman Marcus.

New to Cleansing Oils? Check out the 411 and my reviews.

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Taking it all off is probably one of the most tedious yet unavoidable chores for all you makeup addicts out there. Today I will cover briefly how you can take everything off without spending hours and hours in the bathroom.

Face Makeup
The best way to take off all facial makeup is to use a cleansing oil followed by a foam/gentle cleanser. My newest faves are Kose Softymo Super-cleansing Oil followed by Clean and Clear Daily Pore Cleanser.

Eye Makeup
To remove eye makeup effortlessly, pick a duo-phase eye makeup remover like Lancome Bi-facil or Ponds Bare and Repair. Simply soak a cotton pad with the remover and press against your eyelid for 10-15 seconds. Next, dip a Q-tip soaked with remover, close your eyes and gently go back and forth on your lashes to remove any remaining mascara. Whatever you do, remember to use *extra* care since the skin around your eyes is only 0.5mm thick.

Lip Makeup
The best way to remove lip makeup is to use a remover made specifically for it (try the one by Kanebo). If you can’t find it, simply use cleansing oil or Ponds Cold Cream.

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What Are Cleansing Oils and How To Use Them

Back when MAC first released its cleansing oil, a lot of people were skeptical about it – how can you wash your makeup off with oil? Doesn’t oil make your face all greasy and cause breakouts?

The truth is, cleansing oil has been a staple in Asian skincare regime for a very long time. They break down and melt away your makeup like no other and most of them contain emulsifiers so when they are in contact with water, they turn into this milk-white liquid which can be easily rinsed off.

The key to using cleansing oil is to make sure your face and hands are both dry. Pump a few drops of the cleansing oil onto your palm, spread it all over your face and massage gently. Wet your fingers, massage all over your face again. Rinse off with water and ta da! Makeup-free face!

If your skin feels greasy afterwards, simply wash your face with a gentle cleanser or wipe it with a cotton ball soaked with witch hazel.

Cleansing Oil Reviews

DHC Cleansing Oil ($24) This has always been the best selling cleansing oil in Japan and is literally featured in every single beauty magazine! It works great and takes everything off, including dirt, oil and waterproof mascara. Plus it contains olive oil and vitamin E, so my face never feels greasy nor tight after I wash it off. Highly recommended!

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