I have previously covered a range of natural beauty tips, but one of the simplest and most effective ones I have come across is oil cleansing. Incorporating oil cleansing into your skincare routine can lead to healthier, clearer skin. Here’s how you can do it and why it works so well!
Initially, I was doubtful about trying the oil-cleansing method as I have naturally oily skin and was concerned about its efficacy. I used to have acne-prone skin, so I was apprehensive that this method might cause a breakout. However, I was proven wrong!
What is Oil Cleansing?
The concept of using natural oils to cleanse the skin makes perfect sense. By combining specific natural oils, you can cleanse and balance the skin’s natural oils, resulting in nourished and moisturized skin. This method is more beneficial for the skin compared to detergent-based face wash.
Oil cleansers involve massaging and cleansing the skin with oil. The principle of “like dissolves like” applies here, with carrier oils helping to eliminate impurities trapped in pores. Warm water then opens up the pores, making it easier to remove dirt and sebum.
Advocates of the Oil Cleansing Method (OCM) claim that it can address various skin issues such as oily skin, dry skin, sensitive skin, blackheads, and whiteheads. The choice of oils depends on your skin type.
Natural Makeup Remover
Oil cleansing can also help in removing makeup products containing oil. It effectively removes foundation, powder, mascara, and eye makeup. Additionally, there are other DIY makeup remover options available.
Does the Oil Cleansing Method Work?
I am excited to share my positive experience with the Oil Cleansing Method! Even during the third trimester of my pregnancy, when my skin typically becomes hormone-crazy, I did not experience any breakouts. I used oil cleansing for several months to prevent blemishes and remove makeup.
Initially, my skin worsened for about a week when I started oil cleansing. This is often considered a detox reaction as impurities are expelled from the skin. Eventually, my skin improved significantly, and after 3-4 weeks of solely using oil cleansing, my skin was balanced with no excess oil, dryness, or blackheads.
Feedback from friends and family members who adopted the oil cleansing method revealed similar positive results. Some even mentioned that combining oil cleansing with daily gelatin intake is an effective anti-aging treatment!
Oil Cleansing Ingredients
To try oil cleansing and witness the benefits firsthand, you just need natural oils and a clean, damp washcloth.
The most commonly used oils are castor oil and olive oil; however, you can use any natural oil. Castor oil acts as a natural astringent, aiding in the removal of impurities from the skin. It is ideal for oily or combination skin, and to a lesser extent, for dry skin. While I use castor oil packs for detoxification, pure castor oil can be too harsh when used undiluted for oil cleansing.
You can mix castor oil with other carrier oils that suit your skin type. Olive oil is another favorite of mine, but oils like sunflower, safflower, or coconut can also be effective.
Which Oils Work Best For Oil Cleansing?
Some oils, such as rosehip oil and castor oil, have more astringent properties, while others like olive oil can be too heavy for oily skin. Here are some oil cleansing options and their benefits:
Base Oils
- Avocado oil – Suitable for combination, dry, or mature skin.
- Grapeseed oil – A lightweight oil ideal for oily or acne-prone skin.
- Sunflower oil – Lighter oil suitable for combination or oily skin.
- Sweet almond oil – Good for oily, sensitive, or combination skin.
- Coconut oil – Works well for some but may be too drying and pore-clogging for others. Great in skincare products for certain individuals.
- Olive oil – Great for mature or dry skin, but can also work for slightly oilier skin types. Ensure it is real olive oil as most store-bought varieties are mixed with cheaper oils.
Specialty Carrier Oils
Specialty carrier oils can enhance the benefits of your oil cleansing blend by providing concentrated skin-loving nutrients. They can be added in small quantities for significant results:
- Rosehip oil – Astringent oil suitable for oily skin types and offers anti-aging benefits with vitamins A and C.
- Argan oil – Rich in vitamins A and E, antioxidants, and linoleic acid. It’s emollient, anti-aging, and moisturizing.
- Jojoba oil – Similar to skin’s sebum with vitamins E and B, and minerals. Suitable for all skin types without clogging pores.
- Essential oils – While not carrier oils, they offer additional skin benefits such as anti-aging, inflammation relief, and blemish control. Lavender, tea tree, frankincense, sweet orange, and cedarwood are some popular options. Add a drop or two to your oil blend, avoiding the eye area.
Want to Buy It?: If you prefer not to purchase the oils individually and make your own blend, consider trying a handmade oil cleansing blend that smells delightful and works effectively.
Oil Cleansing Blends
If you’re new to oil cleansing, you may need to experiment with different oil blends to find what works best for your skin. Personally, a blend of 3/4 olive oil and 1/4 castor or hazelnut oil is perfect for me. You can also consider the following blends:
- Oily Skin: 1/3 castor oil or hazelnut oil and 2/3 sunflower, grapeseed, or sweet almond oil.
- Combination Skin: 1/4 castor oil or hazelnut oil and 3/4 olive, sweet almond, sunflower, or other oil.
- Dry Skin: Nourishing oils like avocado or olive oil, or a minimal amount of castor/hazelnut oil mixed with nourishing oils.
Start with the recommended amounts for your skin type and adjust as necessary. I began by mixing small batches until I found the perfect blend for my skin.
Over time, I discovered that even pure coconut oil can be effective once the skin adjusts, although it may be drying for some skin types. A friend uses a 50/50 mix of coconut oil and olive oil blended in a cream form using a blender, which works well for her skin.
Oil Cleansing Tutorial
Now that you know which oils to use, here’s how to perform the Oil Cleansing Method:
- Dispense a quarter-sized amount of the oil blend into your hand and massage it onto your dry skin using smooth circular strokes for 1-2 minutes. If wearing makeup, there’s no need to wash it off beforehand.
- Optional: Leave the oil on for up to 10 minutes for a deeper cleanse.
- Soak a clean washcloth in hot water and place it over your face for a minute to create steam for removing oils and impurities. Repeat if necessary.
- Gently use the washcloth to wipe off any remaining oil, leaving a thin layer, which is beneficial for the skin.
- Many individuals may not require moisturizer after the adjustment period. However, if your skin remains dry, reduce the castor oil in your blend and consider using a moisturizing lotion.
Oil Cleansing Method FAQs
Oil Cleansing With Acne:
It’s normal for an adjustment period of around a week as the skin adapts. You may notice increased oiliness or breakouts during this time as impurities are eliminated. Avoid using harsh soaps or facial cleansers, as they can prolong the adjustment period.
You can expedite the detox process by using a clay face mask once or twice a week.
The Oils Aren’t Working For Me:
Even without acne-prone skin, an adjustment period is typical. Experiment with different oils to find the ideal oil ratio for your skin. If your skin feels dry afterward, decrease the castor oil (or rosehip oil if used). For excessive greasiness, try a lighter-weight oil or increase the castor oil content.
If, after a month of trying various oils, the OCM doesn’t suit your skin, it may not be the right option for you.
Cleaning Up Afterward:
If you perform oil cleansing in the shower, ensure regular cleaning of your shower floor to prevent slipping. Some readers have inquired about cleaning the washcloth afterward. Wash the washcloth separately in hot water and consider a vinegar rinse before drying.
Have you experienced oil cleansing before? Share your thoughts and experiences below!