Gentle Black Fresh Cleansing Oil
Gentle Black Fresh Cleansing Oil
Product Description
Product overview
A minimal, fragrance-free cleansing oil with only 6 ingredients. Made with 85% plant-based oils rich in linoleic acid, it gently melts away makeup, sunscreen, and excess sebum while leaving skin hydrated, balanced, and never stripped. By Dear, Klairs.
50% Sunflower Seed Oil
Rich in linoleic acid (omega-6), vitamins A, B, and C. Calms irritation, fights free radicals, and helps even out skin tone without clogging pores.
Texture & feel
SENSORY50% Sunflower Seed Oil
Rich in linoleic acid (omega-6), vitamins A, B, and C. Calms irritation, fights free radicals, and helps even out skin tone without clogging pores.
Grape Seed Oil
Lightweight, antioxidant-rich oil packed with polyphenols and proanthocyanidins. Anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties help soothe acne-prone skin.
Jojoba Seed Oil
A wax ester that closely mimics human sebum, helping regulate oil production. Non-comedogenic and deeply moisturizing without leaving a greasy residue.
Black Currant Seed Oil
Rich in omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, vitamin E, and anthocyanin antioxidants. Restores moisture balance and strengthens the skin barrier.
Effortless Emulsification
Turns milky white on contact with water and rinses clean without leaving a film or greasy residue. No washcloth needed.
Double Cleanse Step 1
Designed as the first step in a double cleanse routine. Dissolves oil-soluble impurities like SPF, makeup, and sebum so your second cleanser works better.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreen filters. All 6 ingredients are plant-derived oils and an emulsifier considered safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Contains PEG-20 Glyceryl Triisostearate (an ester-type emulsifier) and plant oils with oleic/linoleic fatty acids that may feed Malassezia yeast. As a rinse-off product with brief skin contact, risk is lower, but those with active fungal acne should patch test first.
Sunflower seed oil has a comedogenic index of 0. Grape seed and jojoba oils rate 1-2. As a wash-off cleanser, pore-clogging risk is minimal.
Passed Primary Skin Irritation Test, Primary Skin Irritation Test for Sensitive Skin, and Eye Irritation Test. Fragrance-free, paraben-free, ethanol-free, and silicone-free.
Certified vegan formula with no animal-derived ingredients. Dear, Klairs is a cruelty-free brand that does not test on animals.
Safe to use alongside retinol, vitamin C, AHA, and BHA in the same routine. Use this as Step 1, followed by your water-based cleanser and actives.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSSunflower Seed Oil ~50%Proven
The base of this formula. Sunflower seed oil is exceptionally rich in linoleic acid (50-74%), an essential fatty acid that supports the skin barrier and is especially beneficial for oily and acne-prone skin types that tend to be linoleic-acid deficient.
- Comedogenic Index: 0 out of 5 — suitable for all skin types
- Fatty Acid Profile: 50-74% linoleic acid, 14-35% oleic acid
- Antioxidants: Rich in vitamins A, B, C, and E for photoprotection
Caprylic/Capric TriglycerideProven
A fractionated coconut oil derivative that acts as a lightweight emollient. Clear, odorless, and non-greasy, it helps the formula spread evenly across the skin and enhances the dissolving power of the cleansing oil.
- Source: Derived from coconut oil and glycerin
- Skin Feel: Light-textured, non-greasy, well-tolerated by all skin types
- Function: Emollient and solvent that improves product spreadability
PEG-20 Glyceryl TriisostearateProven
The key emulsifier that allows this oil to turn milky and rinse cleanly with water. Creates a microemulsion that lifts makeup and sebum without the need for a washcloth or excessive rinsing.
- Function: Emulsifier and mild surfactant for water-rinsable oil cleansers
- Benefit: Creates crystal-clear microemulsions gentle to the skin
- Rinse: Leaves no oily residue after washing
Grape Seed OilProven
A polyphenol-rich plant oil from grape seeds. Lightweight and non-greasy with powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that help protect skin from environmental damage.
- Fatty Acid Profile: 55-77% linoleic acid, 12-27% oleic acid
- Antioxidants: Vitamin E, vitamin C, proanthocyanidins, polyphenols, flavonoids
- Research: Antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory — may help with acne and skin tone
Jojoba Seed OilProven
Technically a liquid wax ester rather than a true oil, jojoba is the plant oil most similar to human sebum. It helps regulate oil production and forms a protective, non-greasy barrier on the skin.
- Key Fatty Acid: 73.4% eicosenoic acid
- Unique Property: Structurally identical to human sebum (both are wax esters)
- Benefit: May help "trick" skin into producing less sebum, balancing oily skin
Black Currant Seed OilPromising
A nutrient-dense oil rich in both omega-3 (alpha-linolenic acid) and omega-6 (gamma-linolenic acid) fatty acids. Provides antioxidant protection and helps restore the skin's moisture barrier.
- Key Nutrients: High in omega-3, omega-6, vitamin E, and anthocyanins
- Antioxidant: Anthocyanins fight free radicals and environmental damage
- Skin Benefit: Softens skin, restores moisture, and supports barrier function
6 ingredients
Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, PEG-20 Glyceryl Triisostearate, Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Seed Oil, Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil, Ribes Nigrum (Black Currant) Seed Oil
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse as Step 1 of your double cleanse routine (PM). Apply to dry skin before your water-based cleanser. Can also be used in the AM if you prefer oil cleansing in the morning.
How to use
HOW TO USEApply to Dry Skin
Dispense 2-3 pumps onto dry palms. Make sure your face and hands are completely dry — water will prevent the oil from dissolving makeup effectively.
Massage Gently
Gently massage the oil over your face in rolling, circular motions for 30-60 seconds. Focus on areas with makeup, sunscreen buildup, or clogged pores (nose, chin, forehead).
Emulsify with Water
Wet your hands and continue massaging. The oil will turn milky white as it emulsifies, lifting away dissolved impurities for easy rinsing.
Rinse with Warm Water
Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water. The formula washes off clean without leaving an oily film. Follow with your favorite water-based cleanser to complete your double cleanse.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have oily, combination, or acne-prone skin
- You want a lightweight first cleanser that rinses clean
- You prefer fragrance-free, minimal ingredient formulas
- You wear daily sunscreen and light-to-medium makeup
- You live in a hot, humid climate and find rich oils bothersome
- You want a vegan, cruelty-free cleansing oil
- You have sensitive or reactive skin
Consider alternatives if:
- You regularly wear heavy or waterproof makeup (may need extra effort)
- You have very dry skin and prefer a richer, more cushiony oil cleanser
- You have active fungal acne (contains potential FA-feeding ingredients)
- You prefer a cleansing balm texture over an oil
- You want a single-step cleanser without double cleansing
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESSpecifically formulated for oily skin. High linoleic acid content helps regulate sebum. Lightweight texture rinses clean without residue or added shine.
Balances well across oily T-zone and drier cheeks. Won't over-strip dry areas or add oil to shiny zones. Ideal everyday cleanser.
Cleanses without stripping moisture, but the lightweight formula may not feel rich enough for very dry skin. Consider the Deep version for more nourishment.
Fragrance-free, only 6 ingredients, and passed sensitive skin irritation testing. One of the gentlest oil cleansers available for reactive skin.
Non-comedogenic (rating 1/5). High linoleic acid composition is beneficial for acne-prone skin. Helps dissolve sebum plugs and reduce blackheads over time.
Results timeline
MONTH 2-3Immediate Clean Feel
Makeup and sunscreen dissolve effortlessly. Skin feels soft, clean, and hydrated — not tight or stripped. No oily film left behind after rinsing.
95% noticed immediatelyImproved Skin Texture
Pores appear cleaner as daily oil cleansing dissolves sebum plugs. Skin feels smoother to the touch, especially across the nose, chin, and forehead.
80% noticed within 2 weeksReduced Blackheads & Balanced Oil
Consistent use leads to visibly fewer blackheads and more balanced oil production. Skin looks clearer without the midday shine many oily-skin users experience.
70% noticed within 1 monthOverall Skin Health Improvement
Continued nourishment from linoleic acid and plant antioxidants contributes to a healthier, more resilient skin barrier. Fewer breakouts and a more even-toned complexion.
65% noticed by month 3Ratings by platform
5K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Ultra-minimal 6-ingredient formula — one of the simplest on the market
- Fragrance-free and passed sensitive skin irritation tests
- Emulsifies quickly and rinses completely clean without residue
- Noticeably reduces blackheads with consistent daily use
- Lightweight feel perfect for oily and combo skin in humid climates
- Vegan, cruelty-free, and eco-conscious packaging
- Does not cause breakouts even on acne-prone skin
- Pump dispenses smoothly without squirting or wasting product
Criticized
- Does not fully remove waterproof mascara or very heavy makeup
- 150ml bottle can run out in 5-6 weeks with generous daily use
- Too lightweight for dry skin types who prefer richer oil cleansers
- Contains PEG-20 Glyceryl Triisostearate which may not suit fungal acne
- Slightly higher price per ml than budget K-beauty oil cleansers
- Must be used on dry skin — will not work on wet face
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPESA popular J-beauty oil cleanser with a similarly lightweight feel and quick emulsification. Contains mineral oil as a base instead of sunflower oil, making it more effective on waterproof makeup but less "clean beauty" focused. Larger 230ml size at a fraction of the price.
Another Korean oil cleanser with a light texture. Contains rice bran and rice germ oils for brightening, plus jojoba. Has a mild fragrance and a longer ingredient list (not as minimal), but offers good value for the 150ml size.
J-beauty option with olive oil base and added hyaluronic acid for hydration. Thin, runny texture similar to the Klairs Fresh. Contains more ingredients and is not fragrance-free. Good for those who want extra hydration from their first cleanse.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDEStorage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep the pump cap closed when not in use to prevent oxidation of plant oils.
Slim, dark transparent plastic pump bottle (150ml). Pump dispenses smoothly without squirting. Transparent body lets you monitor remaining product level.
Yes — 150ml is over the 100ml carry-on limit, but a 30ml travel-size mini is available separately. Pump locks for spill-free transport.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes. This cleansing oil contains only 6 plant-based ingredients and an emulsifier. There are no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, chemical sunscreen filters, or any other ingredients flagged as unsafe during pregnancy or breastfeeding. It is one of the safest cleansing oil options for expectant and nursing mothers.
Use with caution. The formula contains PEG-20 Glyceryl Triisostearate (an ester emulsifier) and plant oils with fatty acids that can potentially feed Malassezia yeast. However, as a rinse-off product that stays on skin for under a minute, the risk is lower than with leave-on products. If you have active fungal acne, patch test first or opt for a fungal-acne-safe alternative like a micellar water.
Yes, absolutely. This is a rinse-off first cleanser that does not contain any active ingredients. It is fully compatible with all actives including retinol, vitamin C, AHA, and BHA. Use it as Step 1 to remove sunscreen and makeup, follow with your water-based cleanser, then apply your actives as usual.
This cleansing oil is especially well-suited for oily, combination, and sensitive skin types. The lightweight formula with high linoleic acid content helps balance sebum production. It also works well for acne-prone skin due to its non-comedogenic ingredients. Dry skin types can use it but may prefer the richer Klairs Gentle Black Deep Cleansing Oil instead.
You will notice cleaner, softer skin from the very first use. Within 1-2 weeks of daily use, most users report improved skin texture and visibly cleaner pores. By week 3-4, many notice a reduction in blackheads and more balanced oil production. Long-term use (2-3 months) contributes to overall healthier, more resilient skin.
It is the very first step of your PM skincare routine — the oil cleansing step in a double cleanse. Apply to dry skin, massage, emulsify with water, rinse, then follow with a water-based cleanser (like the Klairs Gentle Black Facial Cleanser). Continue with toner, serum, moisturizer, etc. Some people also use it in the AM, though most reserve oil cleansing for evenings.
No, this product has a very low comedogenic rating of 1 out of 5. Sunflower seed oil has a comedogenic index of 0. Grape seed and jojoba oils are rated 1-2. Furthermore, as a rinse-off cleanser that stays on your skin for under a minute, the chance of pore clogging is extremely low. Many acne-prone users specifically praise this product for not causing breakouts.
The product has a Period After Opening (PAO) of 12 months. In terms of actual usage, the 150ml bottle typically lasts 5-8 weeks depending on how many pumps you use per session (most people use 2-3 pumps). Some reviewers noted a slight oil smell developing around the 3-month mark, so try to use it within its PAO. Store in a cool, dry place away from sunlight.
Verdict: The Dear, Klairs Gentle Black Fresh Cleansing Oil is one of the best minimal-ingredient oil cleansers for oily, combination, and sensitive skin. With only 6 fragrance-free, vegan ingredients and 85% plant-based oils, it delivers a lightweight, fresh cleansing experience that dissolves makeup and sunscreen without leaving residue. While it may not tackle heavy waterproof makeup and the 150ml bottle runs out fairly quickly, its gentle yet effective formula, easy emulsification, and skin-balancing linoleic acid content make it a standout first cleanser for daily double cleansing. An excellent choice for anyone who values simplicity, transparency, and clean K-beauty.
Product Overview
Quick product notes are a great way to check if a product is free from commonly avoided ingredients by skincare enthusiasts. These preferences come about for different reasons depending on the ingredient such as personal experiences, sensitivities, health preferences & etc.
Just because a product is not free from a common preference does not mean it's a bad product! You can make a personal decision whether or not you want to use a product that contains these ingredients or not - click the labels of the preference to read more about them.
Quick Product Notes
Ever used a product that promised a certain effect but provided no results? It might not have contained any notable ingredients that could have been responsible for that promised effect. It doesn't matter what the marketing or packaging «promises» it can do, if it doesn't contain anything that can help - then the likelihood of it helping is low.
We help you identify key notable ingredients that have been shown to help with effects such as acne-fighting, brightening, UV-protection, wound healing & anti-aging to help you achieve your skincare goals smarter. Please note that different notable ingredients have varying levels of research behind them, some are extremely well proven yet some have mixed research in their efficacy.
Just because a product doesn't contain any notable ingredients doesn't mean it's bad. And a product with notable ingredients (or even many) doesn't necessarily guarantee the efficacy of the product performing these effects either. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine this.
Be smart and use this as just a starting point for you to make more informed and smarter choices and compare it with reviews to see if the product is right for you
Notable Effects & Ingredients
Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.
We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.
A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.
One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!
Ingredients Related to Skin Types
Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.
EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.
Ingredient Safety Breakdown
Product ingredient list
| EWG | CIR | Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0 |
Helianthus Annuus Seed Oil
Emollient, Masking, Skin Conditioning
|
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Masking, Perfuming, Emollient
|
|
|
| 3 |
PEG-20 Glyceryl Triisostearate
Skin Conditioning, Emollient, Surfactant, Emulsifying
|
|
|
| 0 |
Vitis Vinifera Seed Oil
Emollient, Skin Conditioning
|
Hydrating
|
|
| 0 |
Simmondsia Chinensis Seed Oil
Emollient, Skin Conditioning
|
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|








