Homemade Cleansing Oil Recipes for DIY Skincare Lovers

If you’re a skincare enthusiast who loves making products from scratch, creating your own cleansing oil might just become your new favorite ritual. It’s surprisingly simple, incredibly effective, and fully customizable to your skin’s needs.

In this article, we’ll explore what cleansing oils are, why DIYing them is a game-changer, the best oils for different skin types, and give you several easy-to-follow recipes so you can whip up your own at home.

What Is a Cleansing Oil?

A cleansing oil is a skin cleanser made primarily from plant-based oils. Unlike soap-based or foaming cleansers that can dry out the skin, cleansing oils gently break down dirt, makeup, and sunscreen while nourishing the skin.

The secret? Oil dissolves oil. That means it can melt away the excess sebum and gunk in your pores without stripping your skin's natural barrier.

Why Make Your Own?

Creating your own facial cleansing oil gives you full control over what goes on your skin. You can avoid synthetic fragrances, preservatives, and unnecessary chemicals. Plus:

• It’s budget-friendly

• You can customize it for your skin type.

• It’s a satisfying DIY project.

• It’s more eco-conscious with reusable bottles.

  
  

How Does Cleansing Oil Work?

Cleansing oil works using the principle of “like dissolves like.” The oil binds to dirt, makeup, SPF, and excess oil on your skin. When massaged in and wiped or rinsed away, it takes all the grime with it, leaving your skin clean and moisturized.

It’s especially effective when used as the first step in the double cleansing method, followed by a gentle water-based cleanser.

Best Carrier Oils for Cleansing Oil

These are the oils that make up the base of your formula:

• Jojoba Oil – Closest in structure to human sebum, great for all skin types

• Sweet Almond Oil – Light, nourishing, ideal for dry and sensitive skin

• Grapeseed Oil – Balancing and non-comedogenic, perfect for oily or acne-prone skin

• Olive Oil – Rich and moisturizing, great for mature or dry skin

• Sunflower Oil – High in linoleic acid, helps soothe and support acne-prone skin

Essential Oils to Boost Your Blend

Adding essential oils is optional, but just a few drops can add amazing benefits:

• Tea Tree Oil – Fights acne and bacteria

• Lavender Oil – Calming and anti-inflammatory

• Frankincense Oil – Great for aging skin and improving tone

• Geranium Oil – Helps regulate oil production

Always dilute essential oils properly and do a patch test before full use.

Tools You’ll Need

Making a cleansing oil is easy and doesn’t require special equipment. Here’s what you need:

• A dark glass dropper or pump bottle

• A funnel (optional but helpful)

• A spoon or small measuring cup

Your selected oils

Basic DIY Cleansing Oil Recipe (All Skin Types)

This is a great starter recipe that works well for most skin types:

• 2 tablespoons jojoba oil

• 1 tablespoon grapeseed oil

• 1 tablespoon sweet almond oil

• 2–3 drops lavender essential oil (optional)

Combine everything in your bottle, shake gently, and you’re ready. Use 1–2 pumps on dry skin, massage for 60 seconds, then wipe with a warm, damp cloth or rinse and follow with your second cleanser.

DIY Recipes for Different Skin Types

For Oily/Acne-Prone Skin

• 2 tablespoons grapeseed oil

• 1 tablespoon jojoba oil

• 2 drops of tea tree essential oil

• 2 drops of lavender essential oil

This blend helps control oil and fight breakouts without clogging pores.

For Dry Skin

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 tablespoon sweet almond oil

• 3 drops frankincense essential oil

• 2 drops of chamomile essential oil

Deeply moisturizing and soothing—perfect for parched skin.

For Sensitive Skin

• 2 tablespoons sunflower oil

• 1 tablespoon jojoba oil

• 1 drop of lavender essential oil (optional)

A very gentle, non-irritating option. You can omit the essential oil if you're extremely sensitive.

For Mature Skin

• 1.5 tablespoons argan oil

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 tablespoon jojoba oil

• 2 drops frankincense essential oil

• 2 drops of geranium essential oil

Nourishing and firming—great for improving skin elasticity and reducing fine lines.

How to Use Cleansing Oil

• Apply to dry face with clean hands.

• Massage in circular motions for 30–60 seconds.

• Wet a soft cloth with warm water and gently wipe your face.

• Follow with a water-based cleanser if desired (double cleanse).

• Pat dry and moisturize.

Storage Tips

• Keep your DIY oil in a cool, dark place.

• Use within 3 months for the best freshness.

• Always label your bottle with the date and ingredients.

Pro Tips for Success

Customize based on season and climate—lighter oils are used in summer, and richer oils are used in winter.

• Shake before each use to keep oils blended.

• Clean your bottle thoroughly before each refill.

• Start small to test how your skin reacts.

Conclusion

Making your cleansing oil is not only fun and creative, but it’s also a powerful way to take control of your skincare. With just a few ingredients, you can craft a cleanser ideally suited to your skin’s unique needs without the additives or the price tag of store-bought options.

So experiment with different oils and blends until you find your holy grail. Your skin will love the nourishing benefits, and you'll love how simple it is to make.