DHC Deep Cleansing Oil

DHC Deep Cleansing Oil is the cult-classic, award-winning Japanese oil cleanser from DHC (Tokyo, Japan) — the product widely credited with pioneering the oil cleansing step in modern double-cleansing routines, and the bestselling oil cleanser in Japan for decades. A deliberately minimal 8-ingredient formula built on the scientific principle that “like attracts like”: oils dissolve oils, binding with sebum, sunscreen, waterproof makeup and environmental impurities far more effectively than water-based cleansers alone, without stripping the skin’s natural lipid barrier. The hero — and dominant ingredient — is Olea Europaea (Organic Olive) Fruit Oil, specifically sourced as Flor de Aceite (Spanish: “flower of the oil”) — the ultra-premium first-press essence of organic olive oil captured before the olives are mechanically pressed, representing the most antioxidant-rich and nutrient-dense fraction of the fruit. Rich in oleic acid (55–83%), squalene, polyphenols and antioxidant Vitamin E, it dissolves makeup — including waterproof mascara and long-wear formulas — through lipid affinity, while simultaneously conditioning, nourishing and protecting the skin’s moisture barrier. Crucially, despite its rich lipid profile, it does not clog pores when properly emulsified and rinsed. Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride (fractionated coconut oil) provides a lightweight, fast-spreading carrier oil that enhances the formula’s silky slip and aids in dissolving impurities without heaviness. The self-emulsifying rinse system is built on Sorbeth-30 Tetraoleate — a water-loving tetraester surfactant derived from oleic acid and sorbitol polyethylene glycol ether — which is the key technology that transforms this rich olive oil formula into a water-soluble cleanser. On contact with water it emulsifies the entire formula into a milky, lightly lathering consistency that rinses away completely clean with zero oily residue — a defining feature that separates true Japanese cleansing oils from basic oil blends. Stearyl Glycyrrhetinate — the oil-soluble ester of glycyrrhetic acid, derived from licorice root — provides targeted anti-inflammatory and soothing benefits to calm any redness or irritation during cleansing, and is particularly valuable for sensitive, reactive or post-active skin. Tocopherol (Vitamin E) delivers potent antioxidant protection against free radical damage, enhances the formula’s stability and acts as a natural conditioner that helps retain skin moisture. Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Oil serves as a natural antimicrobial antioxidant and provides the formula’s characteristic delicate, invigorating botanical aroma — the only scent-contributing ingredient in an otherwise fragrance-free-by-design formula. Pentylene Glycol acts as a multifunctional solvent, antimicrobial synergist and skin-feel enhancer. No added fragrance. No colorants. No mineral oil. No petroleum-based surfactants. Paraben-free. Made in Japan.