why you should be cleansing with oil
Cleansing the skin with oil is a somewhat new trend that really came into the mainstream beauty industry in the last decade. This ancient technique is NOT new at all — in fact Cleopatra, historic beauty icon, was known to use aromatherapy + oil based skincare.
what is oil cleansing?
Simply put, it’s using an oil to cleanse your skin. It can be any oil — a simple olive oil, pure jojoba oil, or a fancy blend of carrier oils and essential oils or other active ingredients.
what’s the difference?
The great thing about using oil to cleanse is that it doesn’t disrupt the natural PH of the skin. Oils are acidic, and so is our skin. Most other options such as gel, foam, cream or even water based cleansers are alkaline — meaning that when it comes into contact with our skin, it disrupts the natural PH balance, strips the skin of all it’s natural oils and typically leaves the skin with a “tight” feeling. This tightness signifies a lack of moisture in the skin. When the natural PH balance of the skin is disrupted, the following products we apply won’t work as effectively. Typically a toner is marketed to re-balance the PH of the skin after cleansing. Sure, this can be done, but with oil cleansing we can omit the need to re-balance the skin. Oil cleansing effectively removes excess oil, dirt, makeup, pollution and toxins while maintaining the natural PH, keeping the skin hydrated and supporting a healthy microbiome — all essential for healthy, glowing skin.
is it safe for all skin types?
YES! Oil cleansing is an incredible option for all skin types. Since it is such a gentle, balancing method of cleansing, it’s accessible to all types of skins and concerns. It helps to balance the skin’s sebum (oil) production, therefore it is useful for even the most oily skins. It maintains ample moisture levels in the skin, so it is preferred among dry and mature skins as well. Sensitive skins, acne prone skin or even eczema and psoriasis conditions will benefit from oil cleansing. To be safe, always check the ingredient list on your products to be sure it is a clean, pure formulation without added fillers and synthetics which could disrupt and irritate the skin.
the best option for all skins
tips for success:
The secret to oil cleansing is massaging it into the skin for at least a full minute to effectively break down dirt, pollution etc, and wiping it off with a damp wash cloth or cotton pads to ensure all oil residue is removed. I love using these re-useable cotton pads or wash cloths — the waffle texture side really effectively wipes away oil and debris.
how to oil cleanse:
Combine oil and a bit of tap water in the palms of your hands.
Apply all over your face and neck. Massage it into the skin, really working into problem areas (such as corners of nose, areas with congestion and bumps, dark spots etc).
Dampen your wash cloth with warm/hot water. Press the wash cloth over your face for a steaming effect. Remove all oil residue thoroughly.
Wash your wash cloth by hand with a mild soap, or toss it in the laundry for future washing (let it air dry first before tossing in your laundry hamper so it’s not sitting there wet).
*It is important to use a fresh wash cloth each time you cleanse, as bacteria will grow on used cloths.
Follow with the rest of your skincare regimen!
Oil cleansing can be done morning and night. Most skin types will feel sufficient cleansing once nightly. For oily/acne prone skin, you may opt for a morning cleanse as well. Oil cleansing is so balancing and gentle that you can’t really over-do it, so feel free to cleanse after a sweaty workout session or whenever you want an extra clean feel!
Have you tried oil cleansing? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!
