The Oil Cleansing Method

dun, dun, dun.....

Ever since I did a post on 10 Synthetic Cosmetic Ingredients to Avoid, where I talk about my all-natural skincare regime (including the Oil Cleansing Method), I've received a lot of questions about what the OCM really is and how to do it.

Well, never fear my friends! I've decided to do a detailed post to explain, at least the way that I do it, so that any of you who are interested in giving it a try will have something to follow, or start with. So, here it is!

pic source

Let me start by mentioning that I've been faithfully using the OCM every night for almost a year now.  And, I LOVE IT.  I honestly don't remember where I first heard about the OCM (maybe Pinterest??), but I do remember that I 'Googled' the heck out of it before I started.  

(Side note:  What the heck did we do before 'Googling' was a thing??)

I've mentioned most of this in this post, but to summarize, I gave the OCM a try because of the on-going skin issues I had since the age of 18. I just couldn't seem to find anything in the drug stores or at the dermatologist that helped.  Then, about a year and a half ago, when I found out that my problems (red, itchy, acne-prone skin) could be caused by all of the synthetic chemicals put into the majority of mainstream products, I vowed to try and cut them out of my regime (and my life!). That left me looking for more natural cleansing products, of which I tried a few, but eventually led me to the Oil Cleansing Method. An ALL-natural alternative.

I know what you're thinking right now... "But Katie, it's oil.  Isn't it bad to put oil on your face? I mean, won't it cause breakouts and stuff!?"  It does seem counter-intuitive and goes against what we've always thought, but it's actually good for you... for real! Better than I could explain it, here are two excerpts that I think are a good intro to the OCM.

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 formula patted over damp skin will provide the necessary lubrication to keep your skin from over-compensating in oil production. //source//

and this...

Do not be afraid of applying oil to your face. Oil, alone, will not bring you blemishes. Pimples, cysts, zits, blackheads, whiteheads…these are a result of several different factors including hormones, bacteria, dead skin cells and the buildup of these factors. Your skin naturally produces oil because it needs it. It is not a malicious force to be reckoned with; it is there for the benefit of your skin, allowing your largest organ to function properly. It is naturally occurring. Not only does your natural oil help lubricate, it also heals, protects, and moisturizes your skin so that it may function properly. Properly functioning skin is beautiful, clear, and glowing. Learning to work with your skin, not against it, will save you tremendously. //source//

So let's jump in, shall we?

Supplies:

The only things you really need to get started are your cleansing oil mixture and two clean dry washcloths. I bought a couple packs of these from Target, so I can use fresh ones frequently. 

Your cleansing oil is a mixture of Castor Oil and a moisturizing carrier oil (like Olive Oil).  You can even add certain essential oils to the mix, like tea tree, if you are acne-prone.  However, I'd suggest starting with just the two oils until your skin (and you) get used to the method.

Here are some suggestions in creating your blend of cleansing oil:

• Oily Skin:  30% Castor Oil to 70% carrier oil.
• Balanced Skin:  20% Castor Oil to 80% carrier oil.
• Dry Skin: 10% Castor Oil to 90% carrier oil.

I have dry skin, so I found that the 1:9 ratio works best for me.  I also like to use Organic Olive Oil as my carrier oil.  If you're unsure what to try, Crunchy Betty has a good resource about Carrier Oils for different skin types, check it out here.  Now remember, these formulas are meant as a guide. You will most likely need to make a few adjustments until you reach your perfect recipe.

 I like to use a dark glass bottle with dropper for my oil mix (It allows for cleaner dispensing, but you can use any clean jar or bottle.  You can find bottles like mine at health food stores, like Whole Foods, or online.  To make it easier, I use a 1/2 tsp to measure out my oils...so for me [1]1/2 tsp Castor & [9]1/2 tsps Olive.  That way there's no figuring out exact measurements, its just spoonfuls. 

Okay, ready to get started?

The Method:

1. Start With a Dry Face.  Pour a quarter-sized amount of your oil mixture into your palm and rub together to warm up.
2. Massage Your Face.  Gently apply the oil to your face in a circular motion. Massage it into your skin, but don’t scrub.   Continue to massage the oil into your skin for 30-60 seconds.  Concentrate on areas with blocked pores.
3. Steam Your Pores. Turn on the tap to very hot water (as hot as you can stand, but NOT scalding). Saturate one of your washcloths, wring it out, then lay it across your face to steam your pores open. Leave it on until it cools back down to room temperature..about a minute.
4. Massage Again.  While it's still on your face, gently massage through the washcloth for another 5-10 seconds to work out any impurities from your pores.
5. Steam Again.  Rinse the wash cloth, wring it out, and lay it on your face a second time.
6. Clean Your Face. Once it cools down, rinse it again, then gently wipe your face clean, removing all the dirt and impurities from your skin and pores. Finally, splash your face with cool water to close pores. Use the second, dry washcloth to gently pat dry.
7. Moisturize. (0ptional) There should be a thin layer of oil still on your skin to balance and protect.  But if skin feels a little tight after (as mine usually does since it's super dry), feel free to moisturize with a tiny bit of your carrier oil.  (I prefer to use a separate bottle of Jojoba Oil to moisturize, and I pat 4-5 drops all over my face.  A tiny bit of Coconut Oil would be a great option too.)

Just a few Notes:

• It’s best to do this at night, before going to bed. Some people do it every night (like me), some do it every other night, and some do it just a few times a week.  Go with whatever feels natural and necessary for you.  In the morning, I cleanse with Raw Honey, and I use a lemon honey mask/scrub about once a week (more on that later!).  The one thing I would probably steer clear of is switching up the OCM with a store-bought facial cleanser that contains sulfates or sulfides. You’ll just confuse your skin and it won’t know what to do with its own oil. 
• Don’t be alarmed if for the first few days, your skin looks like it’s getting worse – that’s normal! It just means that the oils are working and are cleansing your pores by bringing all the lingering dirt and impurities to the surface.  Your oil production will balance out and the breakouts will get better!
• When you are ready to replenish your oil blend, I recommend thoroughly cleaning your bottle with dish soap or popping it in the dishwasher.  Then make sure to completely dry it before pouring in the new oil, so that bacteria isn't introduced to the bottle.
• And last but not least, remember that the Oil Cleansing Method is not a cure-all.  The best way to combat skin troubles is through diet, i.e. drink plenty of water and steer clear of processed and chemical-rich foods.  If you do these things and add in the OCM, and you'll be on your way to better looking skin, hair and nails in no time!

So that's it!  I really love how soft and clear my skin has been using this method and the best parts are that it's 100% natural and super CHEAP!

My Challenge: 

TRY IT. For 2 weeks. If your skin isn’t clearer, softer, and overall happier, go back to whatever skincare regime you’ve been using. No Loss... but, I bet you’ll fall in love. 

Please feel free to comment or send me an email with any questions.  And if you've tried or are using the OCM, I'd also love to hear your thoughts and experiences!