
Klairs Gentle Black Fresh Cleansing Oil
the claim
With a fresh, non-oily finish, the Klairs Gentle Black Fresh Cleansing Oil removes all makeup, oil, dirt residue and dead cells and also controls sebum production. Sunflower, Grape, Jojoba and Black Currant Oils keep skin moisturised and balanced while antioxidants and vitamins deliver skin health. Recommended for combination-oily skin.
the 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
CosDNA returns a favourable hazard rating for the Klairs cleansing oil.
the science
Sunflower Seed Oil is a well absorbed, lightweight oil without residue that’s rich in linoleic acid and Vitamin E. Essential fatty acids help to maintain the skin barrier and decrease transepidermal water loss, keeping skin supple and soft. Its emollient nature ensures smoother more hydrated skin for longer. Antioxidants provide anti-ageing advantages and caretenoids make it a good acne treatment.
Comprising approximately 70% Linoleic Acid (Omega 6), 16% Oleic Acid (Omega 9), 7% Palmitic Acid and 4% Stearic Acid plus small amounts of Palmitoleic Acid, Vitamin E and beta-Carotene, Grape Seed Oil is another lightweight oil that’s easily absorbed to moisturise without residue. Its astringent and antiseptic qualities help to nourish and repair skin. Grape seed oil is non-comedogenic due to its high fatty acid content, able to reduce clogged pores, eliminate acne causing bacteria and balance oil production. As such, it is particularly useful for acne sufferers and people with oily complexions. Grape seed oil also provides anti-ageing benefits by eradicating free radicals and promoting collagen restoration at the cellular level for smoother, firmer skin.
Jojoba Seed Oil is composed of 97% wax esters. This oil/wax resembles human sebum ensuring fast and effortless absorption into the skin for superior moisturisation without clogging pores. Additionally, this characteristic helps regulate sebum production and balance facial oils. Important for skin cell regeneration, it is rich in natural Vitamin A while essential omega 6 and 9 fatty acids help repair and regenerate skin cells.
Able to soothe skin conditions such as acne and atopic dermatitis, nourish, reduce excessive dryness, scaling and flaking and protect against free radical damage, Blackcurrant Seed Oil is anti-inflammatory, rich in antioxidants and essential fatty acids. Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride is derived from coconut oil and glycerin ensuring excellent emollient and moisturising properties.
the packaging
The Klairs Gentle Black Fresh Cleansing Oil is presented in a clean plastic bottle with a pump dispenser. It include a neck clip to prevent unintended discharge and spillage. It is packaged in a cardboard box.
the application
Dispense an appropriate amount and apply onto a dry face. Gently massage in a rolling motion. Add a little water to emulsify and then rinse off with warm water.
the cost
The Klairs Gentle Black Fresh Cleansing Oil costs USD$24.00 for 150ml (correct at time of publishing).
the availability
The cleansing oil is available at all good kBeauty boutiques including Wishtrend and YesStyle.
the expiry
The oil has a life span of two years and must be used within twelve months of opening.
the performance
Presented in the same packaging as the brand’s sister product, the Gentle Black Deep Cleansing Oil, the clear plastic bottle comes with a clever neck clip to prevent unnecessary spillage or accidental dispensing. The pump is great for hygiene and ease of use. I apply three full pumps to a dry face to ensure the product has plenty of slip and doesn’t tug at the skin. The texture is beautiful and silky, making the massage on the skin feel quite luxurious and satisfying. As I do with all my cleansing oils, I continue this process for around 10 minutes and then use my Meejee cleansing device ( DENISE20 gets you 20% off) for a minute or two before emulsifying. It has a light cooking oil-like smell, with nothing added to the formula to enhance scent.
The oil is gentle on all parts of the face, including the eyes. I massage it into my brows and lashes to remove all remnants of makeup. It works very well to break up sunscreen and although makeup takes a little more effort, it does this effectively too. The image below shows left to right, top to bottom progress of my most stubborn makeup including long stay lipsticks, mascara and eye liners. I only used my fingers during the process, no cotton pad, wipe or cloth.
The first image shows the makeup swatches to be removed. The second displays progress after only a few seconds of massage with the cleansing oil. Results of 30 seconds of massage are seen in image three, by this stage, makeup begins to break up. The final photo concludes a minute of massage, everything dislodged with the exception of a few specks of mascara. Introducing a cotton pad helps achieve full removal. Adding water emulsifies any product remaining on the skin for complete and easy wash off. So, I think it performs really well as a makeup remover.
Having said that, my favourite purpose of a cleansing oil is to clear out my pores of impurities and excess sebum. (I prefer a cleansing balm for makeup removal). I find that combined with a good acid toner and niacinamide, it’s the ideal pore health plan. My usual routine involves massaging the oil for around 10 minutes to encourage pore plugs to dissolve. And that it does. Small debris can be felt moving around the surface of the skin during massage, satisfyingly flushed away upon emulsification and rinsing.
Skin is left clean and really supple, the oil blend rich in fatty acids, reinforcing the moisture barrier while it cleans. All superficial impurities are removed which brightens and also softens. Results are very pleasing. Given this product is so minimal in formulation with non-irritating ingredients that both clean and moisturise, it’s the perfect first step for all skin types. If I was to compare it with the Klairs Gentle Black Deep Cleansing Oil, although both are great products, I definitely prefer this new release.
the conclusion
Oil cleansing is one of my favourite steps because it most definitely helps my pores to remain clear of impurities. In combination with a couple of minutes of Meejee massage, my once prominent whiteheads are completely eliminated. This one in particular ticks all the boxes – removes makeup effectively, clears pore impurities and offers a satisfying, silky application. I would totally recommend this combination to all skin types, especially anyone suffering acne, whiteheads or blackheads.
the summary
Pros | Cons |
Gentle CosDNA approved formula | Only available online for Australians |
Silky, satisfying application | |
Helps to keep pores clear of impurities | |
Effectively removes makeup and sunscreen | |
Emulsifies nicely, rinses clean | |
Leaves skin clean, smooth and supple |
the references
Sunflower Seed, the Skin Protector Annmarie Skin Care
Helianthus Annuus Seed Oil Benefits In Organic Cosmetics Naturelle Cosmetics
Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride Paula’s Choice Skincare Ingredient Dictionary
Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Seed Oil Cosmetics Info
15 Beauty Benefits of Grapeseed Oil for Skin, Hair & More Beauty Munsta
Grape seed oil Wikipedia
All About Grapeseed Carrier Oil New Directions – Aromatics Blog
Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil Cosmetics Info
Simple Ways to Use Jojoba Oil for Hair, Face, and Body Wellness Mama
Benefits of Jojoba The Jojoba Company
Black Currant Oil Oil Health Benefits
the disclaimer
Please read in context with my disclaimer.
This product was provided to me free of charge by Wishtrend in exchange for my review. This post only includes my honest opinion and experience of this product and is in no way influenced by Wishtrend, Klairs or any of their representatives.

