Oil Cleansing

Source: http://www.thankyourbody.com/oil-cleansing-method/

I know it seems really counter intuitive to use oil to clean our face. I mean, most of us feel the need to wash our face before bed because we feel really greasy. But think back to your high school chemistry class. What did we learn? That’s right:

Like dissolves like.

In other words, Oil dissolves oil.

The oil cleansing method is such a simple idea. Use oil to get rid of the excess oil. It’s about balancing your skin, not scrubbing it to death. But you really need to try it to believe it.

Why?

Because your face will feel awesome.

The first time I tried to oil cleansing method I couldn’t believe how fresh, clean, and soft my skin felt. It was remarkable. Even my husband noticed a difference. Best of all, it’s a really easy process.

Choosing your oil blend:

There are a lot of different oils that work for this. The most common oils are probably a combination of extra virgin olive oil and castor oil. Depending on your skin type you’ll use the following ratio:
•Dry skin: 3:1 ratio olive oil to castor oil
•Normal skin: 1:1 ratio of olive oil to castor oil
•Oily skin: 1:3 ratio olive oil to castor oil

You can also play with different oils. In fact, I don’t know if I can wholly recommend castor oil, and would probably recommend starting with just olive oil or some of the following:
•Sweet almond or Grapeseed – Especially suited for oily skin (NOTE: Someone left this warning about Grapeseed oil in the comments: “Please mention that grapeseed oil is not recommended for people with hemophilia.”
•Jojoba – Great for all skin types, but particularly good for acne
•Avocado or Apricot Kernel – Great for dry skin

I’ve also used coconut oil (and JUST coconut oil) with good results. Although some sources say coconut oil with clog pores. I haven’t had any issues, but it is something to consider.

Combine your oils into in a bottle. Now you are ready to clean.

What you’ll need:
•a soft washcloth
•your oil blend
•hot water

The method:
1.Pour a generous puddle of oil into the palm of your hand (a little bit more than the size of a quarter). Rub your hands together to warm the oil up and then smooth it over your face.
2.Massage the oil into your face for a couple of minutes. Not only will this remove makeup, dirt, or toddler snot, but it will also help relax the muscles and tone the skin. Take your time, using slow and firm motions, to massage the oil deep into your pores. Take specific care to work any problem areas. Enjoy this time.
3.Once you feel like your pores are fully saturated, pick up your washcloth and soak it in clean, hot (but not scolding) water. The warm washcloth will help open your pores and remove the oil. Place the washcloth over your face. Leave it there for 10 – 20 seconds to open the pores.
4.Gently wipe the oil away and rinse the washcloth out. Wipe and rinse two or three times until you feel like the excess oil is off your face. Don’t scrub.
5.If you skin feels too tight or dry when you are done, take a couple of drops of your oil blend and rub it between your hands. Then simply massage the oil residue onto your face. No need for commercial moisturizers! This is an all-in-one product!

The lazy person’s guide to the oil cleansing method

Just in case the above procedures looks too long and daunting, don’t worry! Basically the whole process can be summed in this simple single sentence direction:

Oil your face, rub it in, and gently wipe it off.