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Oil Cleansing Method for Problem Skin

Using natural oil as a method to cleanse the skin and get rid of acne may sound like a crazy idea, but it’s a more effective treatment than conventional skin cleansers.

The oil cleansing method (OCM) uses the principle of “like dissolves like”, or in this case “oil dissolves oil” to deep clean the skin and balance oil production. The cleansing oil is absorbed into the pores where it dissolves the skin oil that is trapped with dirt, bacteria and impurities so that these can be removed. The natural cleansing oil then replaces the skin oil to nourish and protect it. When this process is done correctly it can clear up dry skin, acne and blackheads and leave the skin healthy, balanced and moisturised. 
The most common oils to use for OCM are castor oil, olive oil and almond oil, although many different oils can be used depending on your skin type. Castor oil is astringent which helps it to pull impurities from the skin, but it can be drying so hazelnut oil may be used in its place.

The general formula for people with oily skin is 1 part castor oil or hazelnut oil and 2 parts conditioning oil like olive oil, almond oil, jojoba oil, sunflower oil, macadamia oil, grapeseed oil or peach kernel oil. People with combination skin can use 1 part castor oil or hazelnut oil and 3 parts conditioning oil. Those with dry skin can use just the conditioning oil or a combination of 1 part castor oil or hazelnut oil to 10 parts conditioning oil.

To perform OCM simply pour the oil blend into your hand and slowly massage your face without wetting it first or removing any make-up. You can use this time to give yourself a nice face massage for a minute or two, focusing on problem areas, until the oil has saturated your skin. Massaging the oil into the skin and allowing it to soak into the skin for about 5-10 minutes will deep clean the pores and help to remove make-up, sunscreen, dirt and other impurities. To remove the oil soak a washcloth in hot water before placing it over the face and allowing the steam to open the pores and remove the oil from your skin. You can then use the other side of the cloth to remove the remaining oil. When you’re finished gently pat your skin dry.

It’s important not to use the oil cleansing method on consecutive days as doing it too frequently can dry out the skin, so it is best to use it a few times per week. It can take a few weeks for the skin to adjust to this new cleansing method and you may even notice more breakouts during this time. Don’t give up because this is a result of the skin pushing impurities out and it will soon calm down.

Be patient and adjust the oil combination until you find the one that works for your particular skin type.
Using the oil cleansing method is effective, but for healthy and glowing skin it is also important to have proper hydration and a healthy diet low in processed foods and rich in whole-foods.

Sources

https://wellnessmama.com/7569/oil-cleansing-method
https://www.positivehealthwellness.com/pain-relief/need-know-oil-cleansing-method-acne/