While it feels counter-intuitive to cleanse with oil there is actually some reasoning to the Oil Cleansing method. Essentially, oil attracts and pulls fat soluble particles (those that mix with fat rather than water) including pollution, makeup and waste products from the skin. Eventually this has an effect on skin congestion including blackheads and white-heads, as the oil mixes with sebum and follows its pathways down to skin cell and skin matrix levels destroying bacteria.
For acne and oily skin, this method can be used but it is important that the oil used is chosen carefully. Castor and Jojoba oils are ideal as they mix with sebum well and therefore help clear bacteria. However, heavy oils such as Coconut and Castor oil need to be diluted by mixing them with lighter oils such as Grape seed, Jojoba or even Olive oil. So a blend of oils is generally a good idea. A 50-50 mix of Olive and Castor or Jojoba and Castor is good for acne prone skin.
For dry or dehydrated skin, oil cleansing avoids the traditional use of foaming cleansers which can have too strong an effect on the skin's protective barrier. The oil creates a moisturizing barrier across the skin that allows the skin to function normally but holds moisture in. It also supports the acid mantle of the skin thereby eventually helping to balance oil production. This may also be a suitable method for sensitive skin, as there are no essential oils or artificial scent which are the most common irritating agents. Pure Jojoba oil is a good choice for dry or dehydrated skin. However, for congested skin that is also dry consider mixing Castor and Jojoba oil together.
The Oil Cleansing Method
Massage 8-10 drops of your oil mixture over your face and neck
You don't need to pre-clean off makeup
Massage the oil gently into your face and neck for 30 seconds to a minute
Soak a soft wash cloth or micro-fiber flannel and in warm water. Gently wipe away all visible oil. Using a flannel will also help to remove dead skin cells on the surface of your skin.
If your skin is oily and want to open up your pores, use hot water and gently apply the cloth over your face. Leave it until it starts to cool then wipe away all visible oil. I advise against using a hot wash cloth if you have dry or sensitive skin or rosacea as it may irritate the skin and increase moisture loss.
Rinse the cloth and repeat.
Apply a serum after washing your face - using this method is no exception. However you may find the need to use less serum. If you have oily or acne prone skin you may choose not to apply anything at all.
For more information about natural & organic skin care products contact Ananda Mahony ND at http://www.vitalenatural.com.au or at info