An Oil Cleansing Method Primer

The Oil Cleansing Method is one of the most popular skincare routines in the natural beauty world. And for good reason . . . Suitable for all skin types, the Oil Cleansing Method is a simple and effective way to clean skin without harsh chemicals or soaps. The result is super soft, glowing skin.

What Is The Oil Cleansing Method?

The Oil Cleansing Method consists of massaging natural oils into the skin in order to remove makeup, dirt, and grime. The type of oil used will vary but can be customized to suit any skin type. The basic concept behind the Oil Cleansing Method is: like dissolves like. This method utilizes the properties of oil to remove oily build up and makeup from your face. So, the Oil Cleansing Method works well for oily and acne-prone skin. If you feel your skin is already producing too much oil, it's probably scary to think about using more oil to clean it! But, let me assure you that many have had great success with this method! Oil can actually help break down excess oil and restore a healthy balance to your skin. Many of us over-wash our faces with soaps and cleansers that strip skin of its natural oils and leave it tight and dry. This may result in the skin producing even more oil to combat the dryness (and perpetuating the problem). Harsh cleansers may also disrupt pH balance, yet oil gently removes dirt, grime, and excess oil while nourishing the skin. The Oil Cleansing Method actually moisturizes the skin so effectively that many people stop using moisturizer altogether.

The Best Oils For Oil Cleansing?

In most cases, you will select at least two oils for use in the Oil Cleansing Method -- a base/nourishing oil and astringent oil. My top recommendation for the base oil is olive oil. It works well for most skin types, is reasonably priced, and is readily available. Be sure to select a high-quality oil, such as Wildly Organic's Olive Oil. Also note that olive oil is a great option as an eye makeup remover, cuticle softener, and hair conditioning treatment. See 5 Simple Ways To Use Olive Oil For Natural Skincare. Mix olive oil with an astringent oil, such as hazelnut oil or castor oil, to create an appropriate blend for your skin type (more on that below).

What About Coconut Oil?

Coconut oil may be a great option for you. Many people have success using coconut oil for the Oil Cleansing Method. It is easy to apply and works well for many skin types. Mix with castor oil or hazelnut oil according to your skin type. If your skin is prone to clogged pores, however, you may have difficulty using coconut oil as base oil. It is much more suited for dry skin. If using coconut oil, be sure to choose coconut oil that is high-quality. Wildly Organic Cold-Pressed Coconut Oil is perfect choice.

How to Mix Oils According to Skin Type

As mentioned above, the Oil Cleansing Method can be customized to suit any skin type. In general, the nourishing base oil is mixed with an astringent oil in different ratios to create a unique blend that's right for you. Astringent oils are drying, so the amount used needs to be adjusted to suit your skin type. It can take some time to find the exact combination and preferred oil for your skin type. Here is a basic guide to get you started... To begin with, mix a very small amount of oil until you find the perfect match (so no oil is wasted). You will start with a base of olive oil and add an astringent oil according to your skin type. Ratios will vary. Oily Skin:

• Requires more astringent oil.
• Start with a mixture of 1 teaspoon astringent oil and 1 tablespoon olive oil.

Dry Skin:

• Requires little to no astringent oil.
• Start with 1 tablespoon olive oil.
• May add a few drops of astringent oil (start with just 2-3 drops, increase up to 1/8 teaspoon as needed).

Normal/Combination Skin:

• Requires less astringent oil than oily skin, but more than dry skin.
• Start with 1/4 teaspoon astringent oil, mixed with 1 tablespoon olive oil.
• Adjust as needed.

Oil Cleansing Method How-To

Choose the oils for your skin type. Mix them together and have them nearby for easy access. Splash your face with warm water and pat dry. Gently massage a small amount of oil (about 1/2 teaspoon) into the face using upward motions. Wet a clean washcloth under very warm water and wring it out. Lay it over your face and let it sit there for 20 to 30 seconds before wiping away the oil. Rinse the washcloth and gently wipe away oil as needed until all excess oil is removed. Pat skin with a dry washcloth. Apply moisturizer if the skin feels tight.

Helpful Tips

Once you have settled on a combination that works well for you, make it in larger amounts, keeping the same ratio you have discovered. Store it in a dark, glass bottle. Using a bottle with a dropper will make dispensing the oil much easier. When testing oil ratios, wait at least 3 days before making adjustments. It's hard to tell after one use if the combination is right for you, especially if this is the first time you have used oil as a cleanser. If skin consistently feels dry, reduce the amount of astringent oil or increase the base/nourishing oil (such as olive oil). If the skin is excessively oily for long periods of time, try increasing the amount of astringent oil. But, do so gradually as not to cause excessive dryness. For best results, use the Oil Cleansing Method in the evening to remove dirt and make-up that has built up over the day. It is not necessary to use this method again in the morning. When starting this method, you may wish to only use it a couple of times a week and gradually increase to every day as your skin adjusts.

Have you ever done the Oil Cleansing Method? What is your skin type and which oil combination will you try?