Oil Cleansing for Naturally Perfect Skin

This is one of the most simple and effective natural beauty tips I’ve ever used. I admit, I was skeptical before I first tried this, since my skin is naturally quite oily and I wasn’t sure it would work for me. I had also had very acne prone skin when I was younger, and was afraid that a method like this would bring back the acne… I was wrong!

What is Oil Cleansing?

Though it sounds somewhat crazy at first, the idea of using natural oils to cleanse the skin gently actually makes a lot of sense. The basic idea of oil cleansing is to use natural oils in specific combination to cleanse the skin and naturally balance the skin’s natural oils. This produces much more nourished and moisturized skin that traditional soap and detergent based facial cleaners. The basic concept of this skin care and cleansing method is that the oil used to massage your skin will dissolve the oil that has hardened with impurities and found itself stuck in your pores. The steam will open your pores, allowing the oil to be easily removed. Should you need it, the smallest drop of the same oil patted over damp skin will provide the necessary lubrication to keep your skin from over- compensating in oil production.

Even Acne.org explains the benefits of oil cleansing: “Fact: Oil dissolves oil. One of the most basic principals of chemistry is that “like dissolves like.” The best way to dissolve a non-polar solvent like sebum/oil, is by using another non-polar solvent similar in composition: Other oils. By using the right oils, you can cleanse your pores of dirt and bacteria naturally, gently and effectively, while replacing the dirty oil with beneficial ones extracted from natural oils, botanicals, vegetables and fruit that heal, protect and nourish your skin. When done properly and consistently, the OCM can clear the skin from issues like oily skin, dry skin, sensitive skin, blackheads, whiteheads and other problems caused by mild to moderate acne–while leaving your skin healthy, balanced and properly moisturized.

The skin care industry is a multi-billion dollar industry, and it seems that the best solution is one of the most simple, inexpensive, and easy! I asked several friends and family members who now use the oil cleansing method how it has worked for them, and they seemed to have the same results. Some even noted that the combination of oil cleansing and taking Gelatin daily has been the best anti-aging treatment they’ve discovered!

Want to try Oil Cleansing and see the results for yourself?

All you need are natural oils and a clean wash cloth! 

My favorite oil to use is LOVE!T ultra clear emu oil, though grapeseed, almond, olive or even coconut oils work great. I get most of the other oils I use for oil cleansing from local grocery stores. Just look for oils that are cold pressed, organic and pure.

What to Do: If you are new to oil cleansing, it may take a couple of tries to figure out what blend of oils works best for you. Personally, I use LOVE!T pure emu oil or liquid coconut oil. One friend uses a half and half mix of coconut and emu oil that she blends in a blender to create a cream, and this works perfectly for her.

To Wash Face With Oil Cleansing:

1. In the shower or at the bathroom sink, pour about a quarter size amount of the oil blend into your hand and massage into the skin on your face (don’t wet skin first). Use smooth circular strokes and let this also be a gentle facial massage. Massage for at least a minute (two minutes is better) or until you are sure that the oil has saturated your skin. This will also remove make-up very effectively, so there is no need to remove make-up first. You can even leave the oil on the skin for up to 10 minutes to really deep clean pores.

2. Place a clean washcloth under very hot tap water (or shower water) until it is completely soaked and quickly wring it out. Open it and place over your face. This will create steam against the skin to remove the oils and any impurities in the skin. Leave the wash cloth on for about a minute, or until it cools. Repeat if needed with the other side of the washcloth and then use the corners of the washcloth to gently remove any remaining oil. There will still be a thin layer of oil on the skin and this is beneficial. Double oil cleansing is beneficial for a deeper cleansing.

3. Typically, no moisturizer is needed after the adjustment period, but if you still have dry skin, try using a tiny bit of homemade organic lotion or oil moisturize skin.

Notes on Oil Cleansing: It is normal for it to take a week or so for skin to adjust, and you may even see more oily skin or more breakouts during this time as impurities leave the skin. If you can, resist the urge to use harsh soaps or facial cleansers during this time, as it will make the adjustment period take longer. If you do this in the shower, make sure to clean your shower floor regularly so it doesn’t get slippery!

Have you ever tried oil cleansing?
Did it work for you?
What oils and ratios did you use?
Share below!