Top 10 Japanese Cleansing Oils: What 17 Million Women Chose

Quick Answer:

• Best overall: Attenia Skin Clear Cleanse Oil — @cosme's 2025 Grand Prize winner, two years running
• Best for sensitive skin: Fancl Mild Cleansing Oil — zero additives, dermatologist-tested
• Best budget: Softymo Speedy Cleansing Oil — under ¥600 for 230ml
• Best luxury: shu uemura Ultime8 Sublime Beauty Cleansing Oil — 8 botanical oils for spa-level cleansing

What r/AsianBeauty says about Japanese cleansing oils

r/AsianBeauty's 2.5M members have been arguing about Japanese cleansing oils for over a decade. Here is what real users say about the products on this list:

"FANCL mild cleansing oil! I've used both version (black & light blue) and loved them!" — r/AsianBeauty · u/anon · 2023-09 · thread

"I've been using DHC cleansing oil for years and mine always emulsifies immediately upon adding water, and removes completely." — r/AsianBeauty · u/anon · 2023-02 · thread

"It's still the best oil cleansing for me till now, worth every penny... Shu's make my skin brighten & soften, not oily or too dry." — r/AsianBeauty · u/anon · 2021-12 · thread

"On lazy cleansing days, I can get away with just using the oil cleanser, as it rinses clean and emulsifies easily." — r/AsianBeauty · u/anon · 2023-09 · thread

The pattern across years is clear: Fancl Mild and DHC Deep get repurchased dozens of times by the same users, and Shu Uemura keeps its premium-tier reputation even with cheaper Japanese drugstore options dominating the @cosme rankings.

The double cleanse was born in Japan, and cleansing oil is its foundation. The concept is simple: oil dissolves oil. Makeup, sunscreen, sebum, and environmental pollutants are oil-based — so an oil cleanser removes them more thoroughly than any water-based formula.

@cosme's 17 million registered users take their first cleanse seriously. Attenia's Skin Clear Cleanse Oil won the platform's overall Grand Prize (総合大賞) in both 2024 and 2025 — beating products across every category. That's how much Japanese consumers value a good cleansing oil. Read our deep dive on the Japanese double cleanse method for the full science.

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The Top 10 Japanese Cleansing Oils

1. Attenia Skin Clear Cleanse Oil (Aroma Type)

Source: Amazon.co.jp

Best For: Daily makeup removal with a luxurious scent

The reigning champion. Attenia's cleansing oil won @cosme's Grand Prize two consecutive years — an almost unheard-of achievement that puts it above every serum, cream, and foundation on the platform. At ¥1,980 for 175ml, it punches way above its price point.

The formula melts into makeup within 20 seconds and removes even waterproof mascara without tugging. The citrus-based aroma is consistently praised as one of the best scents in Japanese skincare. The wash-off leaves skin feeling hydrated rather than stripped — a critical distinction that separates good cleansing oils from mediocre ones.

Contains 5 types of beauty oils including argan oil and jojoba oil for post-cleanse softness.

• Price: ¥1,980 (~$14 USD)
• SPF/PA: N/A
• Size: 175ml

Pros:

• @cosme Grand Prize winner 2 years running — the #1 product on the entire platform
• Dissolves waterproof makeup in 20 seconds flat
• Beautiful citrus aroma that elevates the cleansing ritual

Cons:

• Aroma may irritate extremely sensitive skin (fragrance-free version available)
• 175ml bottle lasts only 6-8 weeks with daily use

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2. Fancl Mild Cleansing Oil

Source: Amazon.co.jp

Best For: Sensitive skin and minimalist formulas

Fancl built their entire brand on preservative-free skincare, and their Mild Cleansing Oil embodies that philosophy. Zero preservatives, zero fragrance, zero artificial colors, zero petroleum-derived surfactants. The formula relies on natural-derived oils and Fancl's proprietary "Smooth Clear Oil" to dissolve makeup and pore debris.

@cosme's Best Cosme Awards regularly place Fancl in the top 3 cleansing oils, and it's the #1 choice among users who tag themselves as sensitive skin. The oil emulsifies instantly with water, rinsing clean without residue.

The "approach-clear" component is designed to prevent the buildup of oxidized proteins that cause clogged pores and roughness.

• Price: ¥1,870 (~$13 USD)
• SPF/PA: N/A
• Size: 120ml

Pros:

• Completely additive-free — no preservatives, fragrance, or petroleum ingredients
• Prevents pore clogging with approach-clear technology
• Clean emulsification — rinses completely without film

Cons:

• Smaller 120ml bottle vs. competitors
• Must be used within 4 months after opening (no preservatives)

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3. DHC Deep Cleansing Oil

Source: Amazon.co.jp

Best For: Heavy makeup wearers and the double-cleanse curious

The gateway drug to Japanese cleansing oils. DHC's Deep Cleansing Oil has been Japan's bestselling cleansing oil for decades, and it's often the first Japanese cleansing product that international consumers try. The formula is 100% olive-derived, using Spanish organic extra virgin olive oil as the base.

Rich in antioxidant vitamin E and rosemary leaf extract, it dissolves heavy makeup, sunscreen, and sebum while conditioning the skin. The thick, golden oil has more slip than lighter cleansing oils, which many users prefer for the massage step of their double cleanse.

Available in sizes from 70ml travel to 200ml full-size, making it easy to test before committing.

• Price: ¥2,724 (~$19 USD)
• SPF/PA: N/A
• Size: 200ml

Pros:

• Organic olive oil base with antioxidant vitamin E
• Decades of bestseller status — proven formula
• Multiple size options for trial and travel

Cons:

• Thicker texture takes longer to emulsify than newer formulas
• Olive oil base may not suit those with olive oil sensitivity

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4. shu uemura Ultime8 Sublime Beauty Cleansing Oil

Source: Amazon.co.jp

Best For: Luxury skincare enthusiasts who want spa-level cleansing

The prestige benchmark. shu uemura invented the cleansing oil category in 1967, and the Ultime8 is their masterwork — a blend of 8 botanical oils including camellia, jojoba, olive, shea, safflower, corn, moringa, and squalane. Each oil serves a specific function, from makeup dissolution to moisture restoration.

The golden oil cascades onto skin like silk and melts makeup on contact. The post-cleanse feel is more "just got a facial" than "just washed my face." @cosme reviewers consistently describe it as transformative.

At ¥13,200 for 450ml, it's the most expensive option per bottle. But the 450ml professional size makes the per-ml cost surprisingly competitive with mid-range options.

• Price: ¥5,720 ($39 USD) for 150ml / ¥13,200 ($90 USD) for 450ml
• SPF/PA: N/A
• Size: 150ml / 450ml

Pros:

• 8 botanical oils for complete skincare-level cleansing
• Invented the cleansing oil category — 55+ years of refinement
• Professional 450ml size is excellent per-ml value

Cons:

• High upfront cost, especially for the 450ml
• Luxurious scent may not suit fragrance-averse users

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5. Kose Softymo Speedy Cleansing Oil

Source: Amazon.co.jp

Best For: Budget-conscious daily cleansing

The workhorse. Softymo's Speedy Cleansing Oil is what Japanese college students and budget-savvy adults reach for — full-size 230ml bottles under ¥600. The "Speedy" formula is designed for quick cleansing: it emulsifies faster than most oils, rinsing clean in under 30 seconds.

Contains organic argan oil and jojoba oil for conditioning benefits. The lightweight texture doesn't feel heavy or greasy, making it ideal for those who find thicker oils overwhelming. It removes standard makeup effectively, though heavy waterproof products may need a second pass.

The pump bottle is designed for one-handed use in the shower — a small but meaningful design choice for a daily-use product.

• Price: ¥547 (~$4 USD)
• SPF/PA: N/A
• Size: 230ml

Pros:

• Incredible value — 230ml for under ¥600
• Fast-emulsifying formula for quick daily cleansing
• Pump bottle designed for shower use

Cons:

• May struggle with heavy waterproof makeup
• Basic formula without advanced skincare benefits

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6. Muji Mild Cleansing Oil

Source: Amazon.co.jp

Best For: Minimalists who trust the Muji philosophy

Muji's skincare line follows the same philosophy as their furniture: no excess, no gimmicks, just quality materials at fair prices. Their Mild Cleansing Oil uses olive and jojoba oils in a fragrance-free, colorant-free formula that does exactly what it promises.

The lightweight, clear oil is gentle enough for daily use and works well on light to medium makeup. It's especially popular among men in Japan who are adopting basic skincare routines — the no-frills packaging and simple instructions remove the intimidation factor.

Available in 200ml standard and 400ml large sizes, both at typical Muji value pricing.

• Price: ¥1,290 (~$9 USD)
• SPF/PA: N/A
• Size: 200ml

Pros:

• True minimalist formula — no fragrance, no colorants, no excess
• Gentle enough for first-time cleansing oil users
• 400ml refill option for long-term value

Cons:

• Not effective on heavy or waterproof makeup
• Basic formula won't excite skincare enthusiasts

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7. Chifure Cleansing Oil

Source: Amazon.co.jp

Best For: Ultra-budget daily makeup removal

Chifure is Japan's OG affordable beauty brand — they pioneered the concept of "good quality at fair prices" decades before it became trendy. Their cleansing oil is a mineral oil-based formula that dissolves makeup quickly and rinses cleanly.

At under ¥600 for 220ml, it's the cheapest effective cleansing oil in Japan. The formula contains no fragrance and no colorants. It's not fancy. It's not innovative. It simply works, day after day, year after year.

@cosme reviewers who've used it for 5+ years consistently say the same thing: "there's no reason to buy anything else for daily use."

• Price: ¥550 (~$4 USD)
• SPF/PA: N/A
• Size: 220ml

Pros:

• Rock-bottom pricing with consistent quality
• No fragrance, no colorants — pure function
• Decades of user trust on @cosme

Cons:

• Mineral oil base may not suit clean-beauty preferences
• No skincare benefits beyond basic cleansing

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8. Cow Brand Mutenka Cleansing Oil

Source: Amazon.co.jp

Best For: Additive-free cleansing for the whole family

Cow Brand's Mutenka ("additive-free") line is a staple in Japanese households. The cleansing oil contains zero mineral oil, zero synthetic fragrances, zero colorants, zero preservatives, and zero petroleum surfactants. The base is a blend of rice bran oil and corn germ oil — both gentle, natural Japanese ingredients.

The texture is medium-weight and emulsifies well with water. It's gentle enough for teenage skin and effective enough for adult makeup. Many Japanese families keep one pump bottle by the bathroom sink for everyone to use.

• Price: ¥1,100 (~$8 USD)
• SPF/PA: N/A
• Size: 150ml

Pros:

• Completely additive-free with natural oil base (rice bran + corn germ)
• Family-friendly — suitable for teens to adults
• Trusted Japanese household brand since 1909

Cons:

• 150ml is smaller than competitors at similar price points
• Not powerful enough for heavy theatrical or waterproof makeup

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9. Kanebo Suisai Beauty Clear Cleansing Oil

Source: Amazon.co.jp

Best For: Pore care combined with daily cleansing

Suisai is Kanebo's pore-care focused sub-brand, famous for their enzyme powder cleanser. Their cleansing oil applies that same pore-clearing philosophy to the first cleanse step. The formula targets sebum plugs and blackheads while dissolving makeup.

Contains amino acid-derived cleansing ingredients that are gentler than traditional surfactants. The oil is lightweight and non-comedogenic, making it one of the few cleansing oils that acne-prone skin can use without worry.

If you use Suisai's enzyme powder as your second cleanse, the combination creates a thorough pore-clearing double cleanse.

• Price: ¥1,760 (~$12 USD)
• SPF/PA: N/A
• Size: 180ml

Pros:

• Pore-clearing formula targets blackheads and sebum plugs
• Amino acid-derived cleansing ingredients are gentle on skin
• Pairs perfectly with Suisai enzyme powder for complete double cleanse

Cons:

• Pore-clearing ingredients may be unnecessary for those without pore concerns
• Mid-range pricing without proportional luxury feel

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10. Biore Uru Uru Cleansing Liquid (Oil Type)

Source: Amazon.co.jp

Best For: Wet-hand cleansing in the shower

Biore's cleansing oil is designed for one specific use case: cleansing in the shower with wet hands. Most cleansing oils require dry hands and dry face for optimal emulsification, which means you can't use them mid-shower. Biore solved this with a formula that works even on wet skin.

The lightweight oil-to-water texture transforms on contact with wet skin, lifting makeup and sunscreen without the need for a dry-face first step. For people who want to simplify their routine, this eliminates the most annoying part of double cleansing.

• Price: ¥1,100 (~$8 USD)
• SPF/PA: N/A
• Size: 220ml

Pros:

• Works with wet hands — no dry-face requirement
• Designed for convenient shower use
• Good value at 220ml

Cons:

• Wet-hand formula may be less thorough on heavy makeup
• Different cleansing mechanism than traditional oils

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FAQ

What's the difference between Japanese cleansing oil and micellar water?

Cleansing oil uses the "like dissolves like" principle — oil dissolves oil-based impurities (makeup, sunscreen, sebum). Micellar water uses micelles (tiny surfactant molecules) suspended in water to attract and trap impurities. Cleansing oils are generally more thorough for removing makeup and sunscreen, while micellar water is better for light days or touch-ups. Our Japanese makeup remover guide covers all the options.

Do I need to double cleanse after using cleansing oil?

In the Japanese method, yes. The cleansing oil removes oil-based impurities (first cleanse), then a water-based cleanser removes water-based impurities like sweat and remaining surfactants (second cleanse). However, on no-makeup days, many @cosme users skip the cleansing oil and use only a water-based cleanser.

Won't oil clog my pores?

Quality cleansing oils are specifically formulated to emulsify with water and rinse completely clean. They don't leave an oil film. In fact, many Japanese dermatologists recommend cleansing oils for acne-prone skin because they dissolve sebum plugs more effectively than water-based cleansers. The key is thorough rinsing — 15-20 splashes of warm water.

How long should I massage with cleansing oil?

Japanese beauty experts recommend 30-60 seconds of gentle circular massage. Longer than 60 seconds risks stripping beneficial oils. The Attenia formula needs only 20 seconds. Avoid aggressive rubbing — let the oil do the work.

Can I use Japanese cleansing oil to remove eye makeup?

Yes, all 10 oils on this list can remove eye makeup. For waterproof mascara, the thicker formulas (DHC, shu uemura) work best. Apply a small amount directly to closed eyelids, hold for 10 seconds, then gently wipe. Avoid tugging the delicate eye area.

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Related Reading

• The Japanese Double Cleanse Method: What @cosme's Data Actually Shows
• Japanese Makeup Removers: The Cleansing Balms and Oils @cosme Loves
• The Complete Guide to Japanese Skincare Layering Order

Affiliate disclosure: Some links in this article may earn us a small commission at no extra cost to you. We only recommend products based on verified @cosme rankings and genuine user reviews.

— The J-Beauty Trends Team