I’ve posted many natural living and natural beauty ideas before, and this is one of the most simple and effective natural beauty tips I’ve ever found.
I admit, I was skeptical before I first tried this oil cleansing method, since my skin is naturally oily and I wasn’t sure it would work for me. I had also had very acne prone skin when I was younger, and was afraid that a method like this would bring back the acne… I was wrong!
What is Oil Cleansing?
Though it sounds somewhat crazy at first, the idea of using natural oils to cleanse the skin gently actually makes a lot of sense. The basic idea of oil cleansing is to use natural oils in specific combination to cleanse the skin and naturally balance the skin’s natural oils. This produces much more nourished and moisturized skin that traditional soap and detergent based facial cleaners.
As the website dedicated to the oil cleansing method explains:
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.
Even Acne.org explains the benefits of oil cleansing:
Fact: Oil dissolves oil. One of the most basic principals of chemistry is that “like dissolves like.” The best way to dissolve a non-polar solvent like sebum/oil, is by using another non-polar solvent similar in composition: Other oils. By using the right oils, you can cleanse your pores of dirt and bacteria naturally, gently and effectively, while replacing the dirty oil with beneficial ones extracted from natural botanicals, vegetables and fruit that heal, protect and nourish your skin. When done properly and consistently, the OCM can clear the skin from issues like oily skin, dry skin, sensitive skin, blackheads, whiteheads and other problems caused by mild to moderate acne–while leaving your skin healthy, balanced and properly moisturized.
Does the Oil Cleansing Method Work?
This is the part I’m most excited to share! Even in third trimester of pregnancy, when my skin usually goes a little hormone-crazy, I have ZERO breakouts, red pots, or splotches! For the past two months, I’ve been using only oil cleansing (and occasionally, a plain antibacterial microfiber cloth to remove makeup if I don’t need to completely cleanse skin again).
When I first started using Oil Cleansing, I had an adjustment period where my skin got worse for about a week. Most resources I’ve seen suggest that this is a detox reaction as impurities are pulled from the skin, and this is definitely what it seemed to be for me. After that, my skin gradually improved and by 3-4 weeks of using only oil cleansing, I had no excess oil, no dry skin, and no blackheads…
I cringe when I think of the dozens of chemical laden products I used, especially in high school, to try to keep my acne under control! The skin care industry is a multi-billion dollar industry, and it seems that the best solution is one of the most simple, inexpensive, and easy!
I asked several friends and family members who now use the oil cleansing method how it has worked for them, and they seemed to have the same results. Some even noted that the combination of oil cleansing and taking Gelatin daily has been the best anti-aging treatment they’ve discovered!
Oil Cleansing Ingredients
Want to try Oil Cleansing and see the results for yourself? All you need are a couple of natural oils and a clean wash cloth!
The most common oils used are Castor Oil and Olive Oil, though any natural oil can be used. Castor Oil is naturally astringent, so it helps pull impurities from the skin, making it ideal for oily or combination skin (and even dry skin in lesser amounts). Castor oil should never be used undiluted on the skin, and I always add at least twice the amount of other oil as Castor Oil when making an oil blend.
There is some controversy over the growing practices for Castor Oil (the harvesting and manufacturing exposes workers to a compound that can be toxic, but it is removed in processing), so many people choose to avoid this oil. The finished castor oil is not toxic, so there is no concern there, but for those who don’t want to use it due to its un-sustainable growing practices, hazelnut oil works wonderfully in its place.
My other favorite oil to use is Olive Oil, though sunflower, safflower, or even coconut oils work great.
If you’d rather not order big quantities of all of these oils to make your own, I highly recommend this handmade blend that smells divine and works really well for oil cleansing.
Oil Cleansing Instructions
If you are new to oil cleansing, it may take a couple of tries to figure out what blend of oils works best for you. Personally, I use a mix that is 3/4 olive oil and 1/4 castor or hazelnut oil and it is perfect for my skin. Other articles I’ve seen and friends who also use the method recommend these ratios:
- Oily Skin: 1/3 Castor Oil or Hazelnut Oil and 2/3 Olive, Sunflower or other oil
- Combination Skin: 1/4 Castor or Hazelnut Oil and 3/4 Olive, Sunflower or other oil
- Dry Skin: All nourishing oils like olive oil, or a very small amount of Castor/Hazelnut Oil added to the nourishing oils.
To find out the best blend for you, I recommend starting with the suggested amounts above for your skin type and adjusting if needed. When I started, I mixed up very small batches (1 teaspoon castor oil to 2 teaspoons olive oil, etc) until I figured out the right blend for me.
I’ve also found that even pure coconut oil works great once skin has adjusted, though it can be drying on some skin types. One friend uses a half and half mix of coconut oil and olive oil that she blends in a blender to create a cream, and this works perfectly for her.
How To Wash Face With Oil Cleansing
- In the shower or at the bathroom sink, pour about a quarter size amount of the oil blend into your hand and massage into the skin on your face (don’t wet skin first). Use smooth circular strokes and let this also be a gentle facial massage. Massage for at least a minute (two minutes is better) or until you are sure that the oil has saturated your skin. This will also remove make-up very effectively, so there is no need to remove make-up first. You can even leave the oil on the skin for up to 10 minutes to really deep clean pores.
- Place a clean washcloth under very hot tap water (or shower water) until it is completely soaked and quickly wring it out. Open it and place over your face. This will create steam against the skin to remove the oils and any impurities in the skin. Leave the wash cloth on for about a minute, or until it cools. Repeat if needed with the other side of the washcloth and then use the corners of the washcloth to gently remove any remaining oil. There will still be a thin layer of oil on the skin and this is beneficial.
- Typically, no moisturizer is needed after the adjustment period, but if you still have dry skin, try reducing the amount of astringent oil and using a tiny bit of homemade organic lotion to moisturize skin.
Notes on the Oil Cleansing Method
- It is normal for it to take a week or so for skin to adjust, and you may even see more oily skin or more breakouts during this time as impurities leave the skin. If you can, resist the urge to use harsh soaps or facial cleansers during this time, as it will make the adjustment period take longer.
- You will likely have to experiment some to find your perfect ratio.
- If you do this in the shower, make sure to clean your shower floor regularly so it doesn’t get slippery!
Have you ever tried oil cleansing? Did it work for you? What oils and ratios did you use? Share below!
I struggle with blackheads and was so excited at the possibility of this destroying them that I went out and bought the castor oil and olive oil right away. I did an extended soak since it was my first time as a deep clean. I bought cold pressed pure oils but neither said unrefined. Does it say so on the bottle or how do you tell? Does it matter? Will this work the same?
They should work fine…
Hi ladies, for those of you who have tried this, how frequently should I do this? Every evening? Once a week? If I do the oil cleansing should I give up my other natural bar soap I typically use on my face?
I just do it every time I shower (every other day) but it can be done daily. I’ve found it best just to do oil cleansing or to use a non-soap method like microfiber in between since it seems to confuse the skin to nourish it with oil one day and then strip the oils with soap the next day…
I shower daily because I feel gross if I don’t, and I oil cleanse every day. I use a recycled glass bottle (leftover from some oyster sauce I used up just before I decided to clean up my diet) and put a mix of 1/3 castor oil and 2/3 olive oil in it. While the water is heating up for the shower, I pour a little oil into my hand and rub it all over my face before I hop in the shower while my face is dry, then lay the hot, wet washcloth over my face once I’m in the shower. I use the washcloth to lightly scrub my face to gently exfoliate. When I get out of the shower, I pat my face dry. I find that my skin is much less oily, I have fewer blemishes, and my skin is never tight or dry-feeling.
I pretty much do the same thing. I apply the mixture of Castor Oil, Coconut Oil and Olive Oil, all over my face and decollete’ area before I jump in the shower in the evening. Then, in the morning I use a mixture of the above, Castor Oil, Coco Oil and Olive Oil and Honey. I steam my face and wipe off any excess and apply my make up as usual. In the evening I will apply a little of the Coco Oil and Lavender and Olive, just for a little moisture. I’m very happy with this method.
I would love to hear from Wellness Mama or anyone else about aging skin and anything that can be used for fine lines, especially around the eyes and what you recommend for the eyes. I’ve been using the same as described above, but think my eye area could use something for the fine lines and for moisture.
Appreciate anyone’s input regarding aging skin and the method. Also what are you all using as a Sun Block?
Thanks!
I started oil cleansing to improve the dullness and increase hydration. I tend to get dehydrated easily with workouts and not drinking enough water – and my skin pays for it with dryness and bags under my eyes. Oil cleansing definitely resolved these two issues.
In addition, I use Retin-A at night which can, on occasion, leave skin flaky. For years I’d been exfoliating or using expensive glycolic acid moisturizers to “slough off” the dead skin. Oil cleansing works better. The oil itself keeps skin moisturized and the little bit of exfoliation I might need is done gently with the wash cloth. Using harsh chemicals or exfoliating scrubs just did more harm than good, and likely contributed to the dullness I was experiencing.
I use 20% Castor Oil and 80% Olive Oil. I used to think my skin was “combination” but since oil cleansing it’s become more “normal.” I also use a few drops of the oil mixture as a moisturizer if my face if feeling more dry.
Also, I think cleansing technique can make a little bit of a difference. I spend a lot of time “steaming.” I don’t wring out the washcloth between steaming; instead I keep the water running fairly hot and sweep an opened washcloth back and forth under the water, then press the very wet washcloth to my face (while bent over the sink). (I also inhale the steam to clean the sinuses!). I don’t rub off the oil. And I blot to dry, rather than rub dry.
I made a mix of olive and castor oils and have been washing with it for 2 months now. My pores are clearer than they have ever been, the few brown spots I had are faded and my skin is soft and feels smooth not rough or dry. I have rosacea and it has really helped to ‘calm’ my skin.The mixture costs me about $1.50/month. I have thrown out my other cleaners and moisturizers. I don’t use make-up remover any more either!
Oh, thank you so much! I also have rosacea and brown spots from pregnancy. I was hoping that someone like me would pipe up. I am going to try Castor & Avacado, I think. Avacado is supposed to be great for healing.
I’ve really enjoyed trying this for the past week or so. Thank you for the information! Do you have a facial scrub recipe you like to use? Sometimes I feel like I need a good scrub to give my skin a nice polish. Plus I love how nicely make up goes on over freshly exfoliated skin!
Here is one I use: https://wellnessmama.com/3628/sugar-scrub/
I started oil cleansing about a week ago. I have very oily skin. Using coconut oil only in the shower. I really think my skin is less oily. I love that I no longer have that tight, need lotion feeling.
I’ve been trying this for about a week and like what I see. However – how do you keep a washcloth on your face for a minute? Do you lie down? If you’re bent over the sink then part of the cloth just hands and is not in contact with the face…
I just hold it on my face as best I can. I usually do this in the shower, so it is somewhat easier, but as long as it is around the face and creating steam, it will work…
Good to know the technique doesn’t have to be very precise 🙂
Sit on the toilet seat and tilt your head back. That helps keeps the face cloth on for long enough.
what can i use instead of microfiber cloth? a towel? im not sure what a washcloth is… :/
A small towel works great too…
Where I grew we called them washrags.. Basically it’s any cloth you use to wash with, usually terrycloth..
I’ve been oil cleansing for a year and a half now and my skin has never looked better! I started with the olive/castor combination but have tweaked it a bit over time. Currently I use plain organic olive oil with a few drops of frankincense and lavender added. Sometimes in winter I need to add a bit of avocado or jojoba oil for extra moisturizing.
Oh, and I do this at night so it removes any makeup I have on. In the morning, I simply wash with a wet washcloth.
Ha, I like how there is always an adjustment period. I’m in hell already with my hormones this week anyway, so I figure it’s the perfect time to switch. I won’t notice “more’ breakouts. Thanks for the recipe. I have one that’s green tea, honey, baking soda, and lemon, and it is great for exfoliating, but too drying for everyday use.. This looks great– and since I am off to the market, will be tonight’s facial cleanser. =)
I’m in the same boat with the hormone situation. Perfect time to start!
You mention that you don’t use this method every day, how many times a week is typical for you? Also do you use the microfiber cloth as your washcloth or is that only on the days you dont use this method? Thanks, I can’t wait to try it!
Usually every other day and the microfiber on days that I don’t… I just use a regular washcloth with oil cleansing…
i have been using just jojoba oil (because i already had it) as a cleanser and am very happy with it so far. takes of my makeup well and leaves my lips soft!
When I tried the oil cleansing method to remove my makeup at the end of a day when I ran out of make up removing cloths, I noticed that I woke up to much softer and healthier looking skin. After reading this post I am motivated to try sticking to the oil cleansing method and see how my skin clears up!
What about using sweet almod oil? would that be suitable?
Yes, though depending on your skin type, you may need a little castor or hazelnut oil to balance it out…
I have been using coconut oil to clean my face. I am prone to acne and it seems the coconut oil is a little drying and is also causing new acne to form. I wanted to try almond oil and I am wondering if it could be mixed with the coconut oil for cleansing? Or would you recommend to add a different oil?
I do best with castor oil and olive oil and I have acne prone as well.
I currently use a Clairsonic when washing my face. Do you see any problems with using my Clairsonic and this oil method of washing my face?
I”m not familiar with that product but any conventional cleanser and the oil cleansing together might counteract each other or at least cause problems if your skin is trying to balance oil production…
The Clairsonic is simply a physical tool to wash your face with. It should be fine. It will probably enhance the benefits somewhat. Don’t forget to use the hot damp washcloth or some other steaming method though, as this is what opens the pores for maximum cleansing.
I just tried this today, and didn’t stop with my face, but did my neck area as well. It felt great! I used 3 parts coconut oil warmed and mixed with 1 part castor oil, plus 7 drops of lavender EO. About ten minutes after my shower, part of my neck started feeling itchy and bumpy…I put some calendula balm on it…and the itching disappeared quickly…I am sure my neck area needs the cleansing and is starting to detox!!! And i will continue with this regimen…
When I treat my face I always include my ears, neck down to and including my collar bones.. I am 69 and the older you get the more care your skin needs.. When I was young I didn’t know the value or benefits of caring for my skin so I’m paying for it now..
I’m assuming you are washing your face at night like we all should. I confess I often go to bed with my make up on (bad, I know) so I wash my face in the morning. The times I’ve tried washing my face with coconut oil, even after it seems soaked in, when I put my makeup on, it disintegrates within a few hours. Especially my eye make up slides right off (and I use a primer under my eye shadow). But I also worry about staining my pillow case. How long does this need to soak in before you lie down/put on your makeup? I use mineral foundation and if the oil is not all soaked in, my makeup doesn’t go on well.
Also, are all the olive oils on Mountain Rose the same? The descriptions all talk about how good they taste, not about putting it on your skin. I have two kinds of olive oil in my house: the very lightest kind that I use for all of my cooking, and a very expensive kind that is for eating fresh (on breads, salads, etc.).
I grew up in the South and always had very oily skin. Two years ago we moved to the very dry West and I’ve had horribly dry skin since. I feel like I aged 10 years overnight. The skin on my neck right under my chin is very crepey and that is very aging. When we go home to visit, my youthful glow returns and my skin looks great! I tried every rich, expensive creme out there and finally found one that helps. At least my skin doesn’t hurt anymore and looks somewhat better. I’m hoping this works. I hate that my cream is full of chemicals (and the $80 price tag isn’t awesome either). But I also hate that my face always hurt and looked awful before I found it. I pulled out my expensive olive oil and have it on my face right now. I’m going for the 10 minute treatment of straight olive oil since my skin is so dry (and now I know why the coconut oil made my skin feel dry. Who knew an oil could be drying?). Fingers crossed.
I’ve been using the Oil Cleansing Method (OCM) for more than 6 months now. And it has taken some getting used to but I love it overall.
Coconut oil is very likely to clog pores. This chart shows the comedogenic ratings for oil and other skin care products: https://www.beneficialbotanicals.com/comedogenic-rating/.
If you can try a light oil like Jojoba oil with your caster oil and just decrease the amount of caster oil you use to 10% or thereabouts until your skin adjusts and becomes more moisturised.
Like Wellness Mama suggests, pure shea oil is great for your skin, including your face (it’s low likeliness to clog your pores). It’s a little pricey but still should cost you much less than the commercial moisturiser you mentioned for $80.00. I paid about $25 for 80 grams this weekend. I mixed the shea oil with jojoba (carrier oil) because shea is very thick and difficult to spread without a carrier oil .
If you’re looking for more info about OCM try visiting a blog by Crunchy Betty (I hope it’s okay to mention this Wellness Mama?). She has written extensively about this subject and it’s where I go for reference information about OCM.
Best of luck!
Thank you so much for posting that link for comedogenic ratings. I referred to it often when deciding which oils would best suit my skin and have so far experienced great results.
I wash my face at night and by about 30 minutes later, any excess oil has absorbed… I’ve never had trouble with the pillowcase… My general rule is to not use something on skin unless it could also be non-toxic inside the body, which is one reason I prefer their oils, but any natural oils will work…
What do you think of argan oil? I just read about it recently and ordered some to try it out. Definitely more expensive than coconut oil, but otherwise do you have any thoughts on it?
It is wonderful, but definitely more pricey!
Any thoughts on organic, unrefined sesame oil?
Also a good choice
I did this method for about 2 weeks and ended up with a wicked heat rash all over my face. Has that happened to anyone else? Any thoughts?
What oils did you use and in what proportion?
I also had this experience. I used 10% castor oil and 40/50 pct olive oil and almond oil. I used this one night and got a red rash covering 50% of my face. This is the third time I have tried OCM. I have scaled way back on the castor oil because I believed it was the culprit. My skin is extremely tender and dry in the areas of rash. I think I have had enough. The last time this happened it took me several weeks to get my face better. I am hoping it won’t take as long this time since I know not to stay the course.
I wonder if your skin would be sensitive to almond oil? My skin burns a bit if I get baking soda on my face from washing my hair. If you’re up for trying it again, maybe try coconut oil instead? Honestly, I have no idea if that’s what the issue would be, but coconut oil has been so beneficial for me in every way and my friend who has a lot of skin and other sensitivities loves it too. Good luck!
I am allergic to nuts. Years ago I went to a spa and they used almonds in their peels. It caused so much skin irritation, that it became exzema-like. Unfortunately, the spa did not, at the time, mention the almond oil, though I did tell them I had a nut allergy, and even named almonds. Since then, I avoid almond or nut anything (not coconut, though). A few months ago, I went to a street fair and bought some natural products, mentioning I couldn’t use anything with almonds or nuts. Again, one of the salves had almond oil, but this time it was my bad, because I took her word without reading the ingredients (stupid, I know). It did not give me a terrible reaction, but after using it 2-3 times, I noticed the redness and acid-like inflammations around my mouth and lower cheeks. I often get cold sores, so it was similar, yet not quite the same. Now, I know it was the almond oil. Hope this helps.