# Medicube Red Cleansing Oil for oily skin

**Lovi Fit: Average fit for oily skin.**
Oily Skin Fit: Average · Effectiveness: High · Safety: Excellent.

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/medicube/red-cleansing-oil/for/oily-skin

The Lovi Fit is the same in every country; only the stores and prices differ, and the ones here are for Canada.

Brand: [Medicube](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/brands/medicube)
Category: [Makeup removers](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/best/makeup-removers)

This fit is calculated for the concerns frequently associated with oily skin: shine, enlarged pores, blackheads, and blemishes. For scores based on a full skin profile (12D face scan, goals, preferences), use the Lovi app.

Works for oily skin; other pre-cleansers fit it better.

## Why this fit

- Offers moderate benefits for oily shine and oily skin due to the presence of Gaultheria Procumbens Leaf Extract and Melaleuca Alternifolia Tree Oil Leaf, which provide mild exfoliation and anti-inflammatory effects, but lacks stronger seboregulating ingredients for optimal results.
- It provides excellent makeup removal due to the presence of Ethylhexyl Palmitate and Sorbeth-30 Tetraoleate in concentrations that effectively dissolve makeup and impurities.
- There are no risks of irritation for your oily skin due to the absence of prohibited or harsh ingredients, and the presence of soothing ingredients like Squalane and Jojoba Seed Oil.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/medicube/red-cleansing-oil/for/oily-skin): Average (this page)
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/medicube/red-cleansing-oil/for/dry-skin): High
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/medicube/red-cleansing-oil/for/combination-skin): Average
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/medicube/red-cleansing-oil/for/sensitive-skin): Average
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/medicube/red-cleansing-oil/for/acne-prone-skin): Average
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/medicube/red-cleansing-oil/for/dark-spots): High
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/medicube/red-cleansing-oil/for/mature-skin): High
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/medicube/red-cleansing-oil/for/dry-sensitive-skin): High
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/medicube/red-cleansing-oil/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): Average

## Key ingredients

Squalane, Jojoba Seed Oil, Oil Tree Leaf, Macadamia Seed Oil, Juglans Regia Seed Oil

## What the research says

- Topical 5% tea tree oil gel significantly improved total acne lesions and acne severity index compared to placebo in 60 patients with mild to moderate acne vulgaris, showing 3.55 times and 5.75 times greater efficacy respectively. ([Indian Journal of Dermatology, Venereology and Leprology, 2007](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17314442/))
- Lactobacillus-fermented Chamaecyparis obtusa reduced inflammatory acne lesions by 65.3% compared to 38.2% with tea tree oil in 34 patients over 8 weeks, demonstrating superior efficacy, faster onset, and safety. ([Dermatology, 2014](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25228478/))
- A cream combining propolis, tea tree oil, and Aloe vera reduced erythema scars, acne severity index, and total lesion count better than erythromycin cream in sixty patients with mild to moderate acne vulgaris compared to placebo. ([Clinical Pharmacology, 2018](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30588129/))
- Clay jojoba oil facial masks reduced total skin lesions by a mean of 54% after 6 weeks in 133 participants with acne-prone, lesioned skin and mild acne compared to baseline. ([Forschende Komplementarmedizin, 2012](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22585103/))
- Topical application of jojoba wax reduced LPS-induced secretion of IL-6, IL-8, and TNFα by approximately 30% and increased the synthesis of pro-collagen III and hyaluronic acid compared to untreated skin in an ex-vivo human skin organ culture model. ([Frontiers in Pharmacology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38344180/))
- Squalane at 0.005-0.015% counteracts UVA-induced oxidative stress, inflammation, and collagen metabolism inhibition while stimulating fibroblast migration in human dermal fibroblasts. ([Molecules, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40363772/))
- Plant-derived squalane protected human dermal fibroblasts against UVA-induced damage by counteracting ROS formation, suppressing apoptosis-related proteins p53, caspase-3, caspase-9, and PARP, and restoring the pro-survival p-Akt/mTOR pathway. ([Antioxidants, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40722956/))
- Topical jojoba oil application in male mice decreased exercise-induced pro-inflammatory gene expression (Il-1b and Il-6 in soleus, Il-1b in gastrocnemius) compared to untreated exercised mice. ([Biomolecules, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41154623/))
- Nanolipidgel formulations with argan or jojoba oil and humectants demonstrate good sensory attributes, instrumental properties, and moisturizing efficacy for cosmetic application. ([International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2014](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24772476/))
- Topical herbal treatments including lemon balm, olive leaf extract, propolis, and sage-rhubarb cream reduce pain, swelling, lesion size, and healing time in patients with herpes labialis compared with placebo or acyclovir. ([Journal of Integrative and Complementary Medicine, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40526027/))
- Topical oleuropein formulations reduced erythema, transepidermal water loss, and blood flow by approximately 22%, 35%, and 30% in healthy volunteers with UVB-induced erythema. ([International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2008](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18377620/))
- An oil-in-serum formulation containing olive extract standardized in hydroxytyrosol improved skin barrier function and significantly reduced hyperpigmentation in participants with post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation after 45 days of application. ([AAPS PharmSciTech, 2026](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41507660/))
- Enzymatically interesterified fats based on mutton tallow and walnut oil produced emulsions that resulted in greater skin moisturization compared to non-interesterified fat and received positive sensory evaluations from 83 respondents. ([International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2015](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25319767/))
- Walnut oil significantly promoted wound healing and reduced healing time in rats with skin defect wounds compared to vaseline gauze, accompanied by decreased inflammation, increased capillary formation, lower NF-kB expression, and higher EGF, TGF-β1, and MMP-1 expression. ([Die Pharmazie, 2018](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30522556/))

## What reviewers say

Based on limited data, this cleansing oil is highly recommended for users with acne-prone and sensitive skin due to its gentle, non-comedogenic formula that effectively removes makeup without causing irritation. Many appreciate its lightweight, water-like texture. Some users find the consistency too runny and messy, and opinions vary on its ability to remove deep blackheads compared to heavier cleansing oils.

- Liked: Acne-safe, gentle (often mentioned)
- Liked: Lightweight texture (often mentioned)
- Liked: Effective makeup removal (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Non-stripping (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Runny consistency (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Leaves residue (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Medicinal scent (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Mild cleansing (rarely noted)

## How to apply

- Use this makeup remover PM as the first step of your evening routine. Start 3×/week and increase to daily use if your skin tolerates it well.
- Apply this makeup remover before your regular cleanser and toner. It prepares your skin by melting away excess oil and makeup.
- Gently press a small amount onto your dry skin using your fingertips. Massage softly and avoid harsh rubbing to protect your pores.
- Apply this product on dry skin to effectively break down heavy makeup and surface oil. Massage it gently before washing it off with water.
- Avoid the sensitive eye area during application. Do a patch test before your first use to ensure your skin feels comfortable.
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/c35a78bc839b6c00f5359ad6ae653522.mp4

## Questions and answers

### How well does Medicube Red Cleansing Oil work for oily skin?

Medicube Red Cleansing Oil works moderately well for oily skin because it effectively removes makeup and helps calm the skin, but it lacks stronger oil-controlling ingredients. Oily skin works best with products that contain oil-balancing ingredients and lighter textures to keep excess shine under control.
Sources: [Indian Journal of Dermatology, Venereology and Leprology, 2007](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17314442/), [Forschende Komplementarmedizin, 2012](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22585103/)

### Which ingredients make this cleanser a good fit for oily skin?

Gaultheria Procumbens Leaf Extract and Melaleuca Alternifolia Tree Oil Leaf help calm oily skin and provide mild exfoliation. However, oily skin needs stronger oil-controlling and seboregulating ingredients for best results.
Sources: [Indian Journal of Dermatology, Venereology and Leprology, 2007](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17314442/), [Dermatology, 2014](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25228478/)

### What does Squalane do for oily skin?

Squalane helps keep oily skin soft and smooth without feeling heavy, though oxidized forms may sometimes trigger irritation. To work well for oily skin, this type of product needs lightweight, non-clogging ingredients that balance moisture without adding excess grease.
Sources: [The Journal of Investigative Dermatology, 2006](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16778793/)

### What does Jojoba Seed Oil do for oily skin?

Jojoba seed oil helps balance oily skin by providing lightweight moisture that is unlikely to clog pores. It may also calm redness and soothe irritation thanks to its natural soothing properties.
Sources: [Frontiers in Pharmacology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38344180/), [Giornale Italiano Di Dermatologia E Venereologia, 2013](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24442052/)

### Where does it go in a skincare routine for oily skin?

This makeup remover goes in the evening routine before your cleanser, and as a weekly step before your cleanser. An average fit for oily skin like this works for removing makeup, but oily skin needs stronger oil-controlling ingredients for optimal results.

### Can I use this cleanser with retinol, and in what order?

You can use this makeup remover in your evening routine before your cleanser, but oily skin needs a product with stronger oil-controlling ingredients for optimal results.

### How often should I use it?

You can use this makeup remover in your evening routine as the first step to dissolve makeup and impurities on your oily skin. Because it offers only moderate benefits for oily shine, an oily skin type needs a product that includes stronger oil-controlling ingredients for optimal results.

### Can it clog pores, cause breakouts or purging for oily skin?

It is unlikely to clog pores or cause breakouts for your oily skin, as it lacks harsh ingredients and contains soothing oils that help keep skin calm. To best manage oily shine and keep pores clear, an oily skin type needs products with stronger oil-controlling ingredients.
Sources: [Forschende Komplementarmedizin, 2012](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22585103/)

### Is this cleanser fragrance-free and alcohol-free?

Yes, it has no fragrance and no drying alcohol.

## Alternatives for oily skin

- [Pyunkang Yul Deep Cleansing Oil](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/pyunkang-yul/deep-cleansing-oil/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — CA$23.99 at Amazon
- [MISSHA Ultra Hyalon Cleansing Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/missha/ultra-hyalon-cleansing-cream/for/oily-skin) — High fit — CA$17.99 at Amazon
- [Dermalogica PreCleanse](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/dermalogica/precleanse/for/oily-skin) — High fit — CA$77.00 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/cerave/foaming-facial-cleanser/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — CA$20.96 at Amazon
- Hydrating Toner: [Paula's Choice Pore-Reducing Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/paula-s-choice/skin-balancing-pore-reducing-toner/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — CA$37.60 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [COSRX Oil-Free Ultra-Moisturizing Lotion with Birch Sap](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/cosrx/oil-free-ultra-moisturizing-lotion-with-birch-sap/for/oily-skin) — Superior fit — CA$29.98 at Amazon

## Where to buy

No store in Canada has a checked price for this product, so the page shows none.

## Ingredients

Ethylhexyl Palmitate, Hydrogenated Poly C6-14 Olefin, Sorbeth-30 Tetraoleate, Sorbitan Sesquioleate, Polysorbate 20, Cetyl Ethylhexanoate, Coco-Caprylate Caprate, Squalane, Jojoba Seed Oil, Macadamia Ternifolia Seed Oil, Rosa Canina Oil Fruit, Juglans Regia Seed Oil, Gaultheria Procumbens Leaf Extract, Melaleuca Alternifolia Tree Oil Leaf, Avena Sativa Kernel Oil Oat Kernel Oil
## About the Lovi Fit

Lovi: Unbiased, science-based skincare AI trained on real user outcomes.

Lovi calculates every fit score from the full ingredient list with brand-independent rules its dermatologists and cosmetic chemists build and review, and personalizes every pick with AI trained on the real results of millions of users. Lovi trains its fit score models on a proprietary dataset built from more than 10,000 expert-labeled products and more than 100,000 simulated examples, following an internally consistent methodology presented at Cosmoprof, AMWC, and Skin of Color Update. Levels from best to worst: Superior, High, Average, Low, Caution, Warning.

Behind this fit score: Nadia Kapleva, MS (Co-founder, Medical Director); Alexey Shagraev, PhD (Co-founder, CEO and CTO); Dr. Sofía Perea Pérez, MD, MSc (Medical Board); Aishani Shah, MD (Medical Board); Asya Zubkova, MS (Medical Board); Hanna Kurets, MD (Medical Board, Medical Advisor); Elina Nazarenko, MD (Medical Board); Victoria Derkova, MS (Medical Board).

Page built Nov 8, 2026.

More from Lovi: https://lovi.care/skincare/llms.txt

## This page in other countries

- United States: https://lovi.care/skincare/p/medicube/red-cleansing-oil/for/oily-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/medicube/red-cleansing-oil/for/oily-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/medicube/red-cleansing-oil/for/oily-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/medicube/red-cleansing-oil/for/oily-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/medicube/red-cleansing-oil/for/oily-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/medicube/red-cleansing-oil/for/oily-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/medicube/red-cleansing-oil/for/oily-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/medicube/red-cleansing-oil/for/oily-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/medicube/red-cleansing-oil/for/oily-skin (this page)
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/medicube/red-cleansing-oil/for/oily-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/medicube/red-cleansing-oil/for/oily-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/medicube/red-cleansing-oil/for/oily-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/medicube/red-cleansing-oil/for/oily-skin