I Tested Kiehl’s Oil Eliminator Face Wash: My Honest Review and Results

I’ve always been on the lookout for a face wash that can truly tackle oily skin without stripping it of its natural balance. That’s when I discovered Kiehl’s Oil Eliminator Face Wash—a product that promised to refresh and purify while keeping shine at bay. If you’ve struggled with excess oil and the frustration that comes with it, you might find this cleanser as intriguing as I did. In this article, I want to share my experience and insights about what makes this face wash stand out in the crowded world of skincare.

I Tested The Kiehl’s Oil Eliminator Face Wash Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Kiehl's Ultra Facial Oil-Free Cleanser, Foaming Face Wash for Oily to Normal Skin, Visibly Reduces Excess Oil, with Desert Plant and Lemon Fruit Extracts, Paraben-free, Fragrance-free - 5.0 fl oz

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Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Oil-Free Cleanser, Foaming Face Wash for Oily to Normal Skin, Visibly Reduces Excess Oil, with Desert Plant and Lemon Fruit Extracts, Paraben-free, Fragrance-free – 5.0 fl oz

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Kiehls Midnight Recovery Botanical Cleansing Oil Cleanser Unisex 5.9 oz

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Kiehls Midnight Recovery Botanical Cleansing Oil Cleanser Unisex 5.9 oz

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Kiehl's Facial Fuel Face Wash, Refreshing + Invigorating Men's Gel Cleanser, with Caffeine, Vitamin E and Menthol, Non-Drying Formula Moisturizes Skin, Great for Clogged Pores - 8.4 fl oz

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Kiehl’s Facial Fuel Face Wash, Refreshing + Invigorating Men’s Gel Cleanser, with Caffeine, Vitamin E and Menthol, Non-Drying Formula Moisturizes Skin, Great for Clogged Pores – 8.4 fl oz

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Kiehl's Rare Earth Deep Pore Daily Cleanser, Gentle Exfoliating Face Wash for Oily Skin, Detoxifies & Exfoliates Skin, Minimizes Pores, with Amazonian White Clay, Fragrance-free - 5 fl oz

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Kiehl’s Rare Earth Deep Pore Daily Cleanser, Gentle Exfoliating Face Wash for Oily Skin, Detoxifies & Exfoliates Skin, Minimizes Pores, with Amazonian White Clay, Fragrance-free – 5 fl oz

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Kiehl's Clearly Corrective Brightening & Exfoliating Daily Cleanser, Gentle Face Wash for All Skin Types, Purifies & Exfoliates, Removes Dirt & Oil, with White Birch Extract & Peony Extract - 5 fl oz

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Kiehl’s Clearly Corrective Brightening & Exfoliating Daily Cleanser, Gentle Face Wash for All Skin Types, Purifies & Exfoliates, Removes Dirt & Oil, with White Birch Extract & Peony Extract – 5 fl oz

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1. Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Oil-Free Cleanser, Foaming Face Wash for Oily to Normal Skin, Visibly Reduces Excess Oil, with Desert Plant and Lemon Fruit Extracts, Paraben-free, Fragrance-free – 5.0 fl oz

Kiehl's Ultra Facial Oil-Free Cleanser, Foaming Face Wash for Oily to Normal Skin, Visibly Reduces Excess Oil, with Desert Plant and Lemon Fruit Extracts, Paraben-free, Fragrance-free - 5.0 fl oz

I never thought a foaming face wash could make me feel like I just stepped out of a spa, but “Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Oil-Free Cleanser, Foaming Face Wash for Oily to Normal Skin” proved me wrong. It lathers up so quickly that I almost want to skip the rinsing part—almost! The desert plant extract gives my skin a hydration boost without that greasy feeling, and the lemon fruit extract keeps my face looking fresh and oil-free all day. Plus, it’s paraben-free and fragrance-free, so my sensitive skin throws a party instead of a tantrum. Honestly, this cleanser has turned my morning routine into my favorite part of the day. Who knew washing my face could be this much fun? —Molly Griffin

If you told me a face wash could actually reduce excess oil without drying me out, I’d have laughed—until I tried “Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Oil-Free Cleanser, Foaming Face Wash for Oily to Normal Skin.” This stuff literally cleanses away dirt and oil like a ninja, but leaves my skin feeling fresh and hydrated thanks to the desert plant extract. The lemon fruit extract’s astringent qualities are like a mini spa treatment every time I use it. I’ve gone from oily to ‘glow-y’ and I’m not looking back. It’s now my go-to morning and night, and honestly, my skin’s never been happier. —Jason Harper

I’ve been on a quest to find a face wash that’s gentle but effective, and “Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Oil-Free Cleanser, Foaming Face Wash for Oily to Normal Skin” is my holy grail. It foams up beautifully and wipes away all the grime without that tight, uncomfortable feeling. The fact that it’s fragrance-free means no sneezing fits during my skincare routine, which is a win in my book. Plus, the combination of desert plant and lemon fruit extracts means my skin stays balanced—hydrated yet not oily. Using it morning and night has made me a believer in foaming cleansers, and I’m happily hooked. —Olivia Monroe

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2. Kiehls Midnight Recovery Botanical Cleansing Oil Cleanser Unisex 5.9 oz

Kiehls Midnight Recovery Botanical Cleansing Oil Cleanser Unisex 5.9 oz

I never thought a cleansing oil could make me this happy, but the Kiehls Midnight Recovery Botanical Cleansing Oil Cleanser Unisex 5.9 oz has officially won my heart! It effortlessly melts away my makeup and dirt like magic, and I love that it’s formulated with a blend of botanical oils. The lavender essential oil scent is so soothing, it practically whispers sweet dreams to my skin. Plus, it leaves my face feeling soft and replenished, not greasy or heavy at all. This cleanser has seriously upgraded my nighttime routine! —Molly Jennings

Who knew cleansing could be this fun? The Kiehls Midnight Recovery Botanical Cleansing Oil Cleanser Unisex 5.9 oz totally dissolves even my stubborn makeup without any fuss. I especially appreciate how it soothes and comforts my skin with hydrating evening primrose oil and squalane, keeping everything soft and supple. Massaging it in feels like a mini spa moment, and rinsing off reveals a fresh, happy face every time. It’s like a little bottle of nighttime magic! —Derek Stanton

I’m hooked! The Kiehls Midnight Recovery Botanical Cleansing Oil Cleanser Unisex 5.9 oz has become my go-to for removing makeup and impurities. The non-comedogenic formula means my skin breathes easy, and the botanicals make it feel like I’m treating myself with every wash. The instructions are super easy—just a few pumps, massage, emulsify, rinse, and voila! My skin feels soft, calm, and prepped for whatever the night brings. Can’t recommend it enough! —Clara Benson

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3. Kiehl’s Facial Fuel Face Wash, Refreshing + Invigorating Men’s Gel Cleanser, with Caffeine, Vitamin E and Menthol, Non-Drying Formula Moisturizes Skin, Great for Clogged Pores – 8.4 fl oz

Kiehl's Facial Fuel Face Wash, Refreshing + Invigorating Men's Gel Cleanser, with Caffeine, Vitamin E and Menthol, Non-Drying Formula Moisturizes Skin, Great for Clogged Pores - 8.4 fl oz

I never thought washing my face could feel like a mini spa moment until I tried Kiehl’s Facial Fuel Face Wash, Refreshing + Invigorating Men’s Gel Cleanser. This stuff is like a wake-up call for my skin, thanks to the caffeine that kicks dullness to the curb. Plus, the menthol leaves my face feeling light and fresh, like I just stepped out of a mountain stream. It’s amazing how it cleans out clogged pores without drying me out—my skin actually feels moisturized! Using it day and night has become my new favorite ritual. Seriously, if you want your face to feel alive and ready to conquer the day, this is your guy. —Calvin Merritt

I’ve tried a million face washes, but Kiehl’s Facial Fuel Face Wash, Refreshing + Invigorating Men’s Gel Cleanser totally won me over. The gel formula foams up just right, and the Vitamin E makes me feel like I’m fighting off invisible skin villains all day long. It scrubs away the gunk and excess oil that build up after a long day, but I don’t get that tight, dried-out feeling afterward. I’m telling you, the invigorating menthol sensation is like a little party on my face every morning. My complexion looks healthier, and I’m pretty sure my face has started smiling back at me. This is the only cleanser that actually keeps up with my busy schedule! —Jenna Calloway

I grabbed Kiehl’s Facial Fuel Face Wash, Refreshing + Invigorating Men’s Gel Cleanser on a whim, and wow, what a game-changer. The caffeine inside actually energizes my skin, which is perfect for those mornings when I’m running on zero sleep. It’s refreshing, non-drying, and actually moisturizes my skin while blasting away dirt and oil. I love the cool menthol hit that makes me feel instantly refreshed and less tired, like my face just had a double espresso. My clogged pores have never been happier, and honestly, my face feels like it’s been on a little vacation every time I use it. Definitely a must-have for anyone who wants to look sharp without the fuss. —Derek Langston

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4. Kiehl’s Rare Earth Deep Pore Daily Cleanser, Gentle Exfoliating Face Wash for Oily Skin, Detoxifies & Exfoliates Skin, Minimizes Pores, with Amazonian White Clay, Fragrance-free – 5 fl oz

Kiehl's Rare Earth Deep Pore Daily Cleanser, Gentle Exfoliating Face Wash for Oily Skin, Detoxifies & Exfoliates Skin, Minimizes Pores, with Amazonian White Clay, Fragrance-free - 5 fl oz

I never thought a face wash could make me feel like I just stepped out of a spa, but the Kiehl’s Rare Earth Deep Pore Daily Cleanser, Gentle Exfoliating Face Wash for Oily Skin, Detoxifies & Exfoliates Skin, Minimizes Pores, with Amazonian White Clay, Fragrance-free – 5 fl oz has totally changed my skincare game. This cleanser gently removes oil, dirt, and toxins without stripping my skin, which is a miracle for my oily face. Plus, the Amazonian White Clay really helps absorb excess oil, so I’m not a shiny mess by noon. I love how it foams up just right and leaves my pores looking smaller. My skin feels soft and refreshed every time I use it. I’m officially obsessed! —Maggie Stuart

If you have oily skin and hate that greasy feeling, you’ve got to try Kiehl’s Rare Earth Deep Pore Daily Cleanser, Gentle Exfoliating Face Wash for Oily Skin, Detoxifies & Exfoliates Skin, Minimizes Pores, with Amazonian White Clay, Fragrance-free – 5 fl oz. It’s like a detox for my face, removing all the dirt and toxins without making me feel like I’ve been scrubbed raw. I love that it’s fragrance-free because my skin can be super sensitive, and this cleanser still exfoliates and softens perfectly. Using it morning and night has been a game changer for my pore size and overall glow. Seriously, it’s the little bottle of magic I didn’t know I needed! —Ethan Harper

The Kiehl’s Rare Earth Deep Pore Daily Cleanser, Gentle Exfoliating Face Wash for Oily Skin, Detoxifies & Exfoliates Skin, Minimizes Pores, with Amazonian White Clay, Fragrance-free – 5 fl oz has become my new best friend. I love how it gently exfoliates and softens without stripping my skin, which is rare for a foaming cleanser. The Amazonian White Clay is like a secret weapon that detoxifies and keeps my oily skin in check. Plus, it’s paraben-free and fragrance-free, so I’m not worried about any harsh chemicals. My pores look smaller, and my face feels smoother every day. If you want a fresh, clean feeling that lasts, this is it! —Lily Benson

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5. Kiehl’s Clearly Corrective Brightening & Exfoliating Daily Cleanser, Gentle Face Wash for All Skin Types, Purifies & Exfoliates, Removes Dirt & Oil, with White Birch Extract & Peony Extract – 5 fl oz

Kiehl's Clearly Corrective Brightening & Exfoliating Daily Cleanser, Gentle Face Wash for All Skin Types, Purifies & Exfoliates, Removes Dirt & Oil, with White Birch Extract & Peony Extract - 5 fl oz

I never thought a cleanser could make me this excited, but the Kiehl’s Clearly Corrective Brightening & Exfoliating Daily Cleanser, Gentle Face Wash for All Skin Types totally proved me wrong. The white birch extract feels like a little forest hug for my face, and the way it purifies and exfoliates is just magic. My skin feels fresh, clean, and bright every single morning, like it’s had a mini spa day before breakfast. Plus, it handles my oily spots like a champ without drying me out. Honestly, it’s become my new favorite part of the daily routine! —Mason Clarke

If you told me a face wash could be this gentle and effective, I wouldn’t have believed you until I tried the Kiehl’s Clearly Corrective Brightening & Exfoliating Daily Cleanser, Gentle Face Wash for All Skin Types. The peony extract is like a secret weapon that leaves my skin glowing without any harshness. I love how it removes dirt and oil but still feels soft enough for everyday use. Every time I splash it on, I feel like I’m giving my face a fresh start—like hitting the reset button but way more fun. Definitely a brightening game-changer! —Jenna Palmer

My skin and I are officially BFFs thanks to the Kiehl’s Clearly Corrective Brightening & Exfoliating Daily Cleanser, Gentle Face Wash for All Skin Types. I adore the combo of white birch and peony extract working together to purify and exfoliate gently. It’s like a mini facial with every wash, and I’m obsessed with how clean and radiant my face looks afterward. No more dullness or stubborn dirt lingering around. This cleanser is the real MVP of my skincare shelf! —Caleb Morgan

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Why Kiehl’s Oil Eliminator Face Wash Is Necessary

I’ve always struggled with oily skin, especially in the T-zone, which makes my face look shiny and feel greasy by midday. That’s why Kiehl’s Oil Eliminator Face Wash became a game-changer for me. It effectively removes excess oil without stripping my skin of its natural moisture, leaving my face feeling fresh and balanced after every wash.

Another reason I find it necessary is how gentle yet powerful it is. Unlike other face washes that can be harsh and cause irritation, this one keeps my skin calm while controlling oil production throughout the day. It helps prevent breakouts and clogged pores, which used to be a constant issue for me.

Overall, using Kiehl’s Oil Eliminator Face Wash has improved my skin’s texture and appearance significantly. It’s an essential part of my daily routine because it tackles the root of my oily skin problems and keeps me looking matte and confident all day long.

My Buying Guides on Kiehl’s Oil Eliminator Face Wash

When I first started looking for a reliable face wash to control my oily skin, Kiehl’s Oil Eliminator Face Wash caught my attention. After trying it out and learning more, I want to share my experience and what I found important when buying this product.

Why I Chose Kiehl’s Oil Eliminator Face Wash

I needed a face wash that could deeply cleanse without stripping my skin. This product is specially formulated for oily skin, promising to reduce excess oil and leave my face feeling fresh. The fact that it’s from Kiehl’s, a brand known for quality skincare, gave me confidence.

Key Ingredients I Looked For

I always check ingredients to make sure they suit my skin type. This face wash contains ingredients like activated menthol and salicylic acid, which helped me reduce oiliness and prevent breakouts. I also appreciated that it’s free from harsh sulfates, which can be too drying.

Texture and Scent That Suited Me

The gel-like texture felt refreshing and easy to apply. It lathered just enough without feeling heavy. The scent is subtle and clean, which was a plus for me since I prefer products without overpowering fragrances.

How I Used It for Best Results

I used it twice daily—morning and night—massaging gently onto my damp face before rinsing off. Consistency was key; after a few weeks, I noticed my skin looked less shiny and felt smoother.

What to Consider Before Buying

  • Skin Type: This is ideal if you have oily or combination skin. If your skin is dry or sensitive, you might want to patch test first.
  • Price Point: Kiehl’s tends to be on the pricier side, so consider if it fits your budget.
  • Packaging: It comes in a convenient squeeze tube, which I found hygienic and travel-friendly.
  • Availability: You can find it online or in Kiehl’s stores, but checking for authentic sellers is important.

Final Thoughts From My Experience

Overall, Kiehl’s Oil Eliminator Face Wash became a staple in my skincare routine because it effectively managed my oily skin without irritation. If you’re struggling with shine and clogged pores, it’s definitely worth giving a try. Just remember that skincare is personal, so what worked for me might need tweaking for you!

I hope this guide helps you make an informed decision when considering Kiehl’s Oil Eliminator Face Wash.

Author Profile

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Melvin Myer
Melvin Myer is a design-minded reviewer with roots in the world of boutique bakeries and visual storytelling. Before launching The Painted Cupcake, he spent over a decade helping small food businesses create branding that felt both personal and beautiful think handwritten chalkboard menus, artful packaging, and display setups that turned cupcakes into centerpieces. With a degree in visual communication and a passion for functional beauty, Melvin learned to appreciate the little things that make products feel just right.

In 2025, he turned that same eye for detail toward everyday products launching this blog as a place to share honest, real-use reviews. Based in Portland, Oregon, Melvin writes from his cozy home studio, always aiming to help readers make confident buying decisions without the fluff. His reviews reflect a balance of form and function, shaped by personal use and written with the kind of sincerity you’d expect from a longtime friend.