What is oil cleansing, and does it hurt? It sounds odd, but I assure you it’s not; in fact, it’s quite nice.
Oil Cleansing is a
Rather than cleansing your face with face wash or drying substances like soap and water that don’t hydrate your skin, you use oils to remove your makeup. Not just any oils but Castor, Jojoba, or almond oils that hydrate your skin.
The benefit of oil cleansing is to remove your makeup with harsh chemicals and keep from drying your skin out. The oil actually attracts bacteria, dirt, and toxins to the skin—oil
Is It Right for You?
As someone with more mature skin, I’m still coming to grips with saying that about myself, I needed something more hydrating. I was previously using skincare products that are only available through plastic surgeons or cosmetic practices. Luckily, at the time, I worked in that field and never had to pay full price. Yay! But now, I pay full price – boo, I’d rather spend less on products and have one that better suits my needs.
Over the last year or two, I noticed that my regular moisturizer wasn’t enough. My skin wasn’t retaining the moisture anymore, and the moisturizer itself wasn’t really enough. Oh, the dilemma! What to do?
So I researched other options, and I came across oil cleansing. I gave it a try and made my mix. It is super easy and full-proof, so don’t freak out about making your mix.
I made different variations before I found what works best for my skin. I’ll mention this over and over in my blog that no two people are the same. Therefore what works for one may not work for another. It may just need a little tweak to best suit your needs. Feel free to try things and make this fit your skin, so you get all the benefits.
First Oil Cleansing
The first time I tried oil cleansing, my makeup, even waterproof mascara, simply slid off. Now I will mention that I also use microfiber face towels to help grab dirt and makeup. Even if you don’t try oil cleansing, I would still use a microfiber face towel. It does make a difference in the amount of dirt and makeup that is removed.
Being somewhat of a skincare junkie, I also use a Clarisonic and do dry brushing. Both of these methods remove dead skin cells on the surface. I have a whole skincare routine.
So having removed the dry skin from the surface. Then hydrating with oil cleansing for cleansing/hydration, my skin looks amazing. You can see the results immediately after oil pulling. Your skin has an amazing glow and is hydrated.
To touch it’s not greasy, at least not for me. My skin, again mature skin, absorbs the oil right away, and your skin glows the moisturization. Now, if you find that it makes your skin oily, then useless, and adjust your mix accordingly. My skin has always been on the drier side, so it absorbs it pretty quickly.
TYPES OF OILS TO USE
Castor Oil
We’re not using it as a laxative here, don’t worry. There are many benefits or Castor oil, but the main that is of use here is that it’s a moisturizer. Castor oil contains essential fatty acids that help restore your skin’s natural moisture. Be sure to use pure organic cold-pressed virgin Castor oil.
Almond Oil
Great for moisturizing your skin and won’t clog pores. It smells nice, too.
Jojoba Oil
Just like almond oil, Jojoba is also great for the skin. This is more of a preference on which to use. I switch back and forth and honestly use the one that I have more of at the time.
You can use other oils, too, even coconut oil. Feel free to experiment, so you find what best works for you. Remember, no two people are the same; therefore, no two outcomes will be the same. Try for yourself and see what works for you.
I like to use a glass bottle/dropper to store the product (use a small funnel to pour ingredients). The dropper makes it easier to dispense. I one full dropper to cleanse my face. I save glass bottles/droppers that some of my supplements come in. Once they’re all gone, I wash them out and recycle them. I have about five empties waiting for their new fate. LOL
How To Use
Create your mix
- Mix 1/3 Castor Oil, 1/3 Almond Oil, 1/3 Jojoba Oil in glass dropper bottle.
- You do not have to remove makeup before doing this. Before I place the mix in my hand I run the hot water. Mine takes a minute to get warm enough.
- Get one dropper full of mix and put in the palm of your hand, you may need to warm up with warm water. Rub hands together to distribute.
- Apply to face in circular motions. I like to focus on my eyes first and work out from there.
- Once you’ve applied to the entire face, wet the microfiber towel in the warm water. It needs to be warm enough to emulsify the oil, don’t burn yourself it doesn’t need to be scalding hot.
- Use a microfiber towel to remove the oil and makeup. Again, I start at the eyes and work my way out and down. Rinse the towel in warm water, if needed, and use another section of the towel to continue removing dirt and makeup.
Now your makeup should have just glided right off. And your skin should look radiant and hydrated. You can adjust the mix according to what you like and what your skin needs. This doesn’t have to be exact as it’s very forgiving in. measurements. So don’t stress about the quantities used.
No need to add more moisturizer unless your skin is still dry. If so, play with the ratios of oils. Personally, I use more castor oil and split the difference between the other oils. Again, I have dry skin.
I prefer to do this over the sink right before I go to bed. Some prefer washing their face in the shower. Just a warning, this is oil, and a slip and fall can happen in the shower if you’re not careful. That wouldn’t be very glam. Be safe.
BONUS
So a big bonus in oil cleansing is that you’re eyelashes and eyebrows will grow! Castor oil is also known to assist in growing hair, especially eyelashes and eyebrows. Since you are using this on your eyes to remove eye makeup, it also increases your lashes. I’ve noticed that mine are thicker and longer, which, not to brag are already long, but now they are even more so.
UPDATE 11/20/20
Unfortunately, the Clarisonic mentioned in this article has been discontinued. I couldn’t believe it myself, as I love this product. Luckily there are plenty of alternatives these days. Find what works for you and fits your budget.
UPDATE 11/3/21
During the winter months if your skin tends to get drier as most of us do, I’ve found adding more castor oil helps with deep moisturizing. You can always lighten up on the castor oil once spring has sprung. Again, find which oils work best for you.
I wish you peace and guidance on your journey. Take care and be well.
