Written by Adeline J. Wells
As anyone visiting the beauty aisle of the drugstore will know, there are a plethora of cleansers on the market that all boast to be the best way to wash the face. From foaming cleansers to micellar water, and harsh chemicals like benzoyl peroxide to milk cleansers, the options can feel overwhelming at times to choose from. One method gaining traction in the wellness world today is cleansing with oil. An ancient method with roots in Ayurveda, this technique utilizes natural elements rather than synthetics. Fortunately, oil cleansing is a simple, intuitive process that can leave the skin both nourished and fresh.
What is Oil Cleansing?
As teenagers, we were warned against using anything with the word "oil" on the face. It is now more commonly known that moisturizing with oils can help balance the skin’s sebum production, resulting in clearer, less inflamed skin. Oil cleansing builds on this methodology; pure oils can remove makeup, dirt, and sweat while cleansing the pores. This is especially prevalent when utilizing oils that are microbial or antioxidant-rich.
Oils for Cleansing
What makes an oil ideal for cleansing? Different oils can work better for various skin types, but jojoba, olive, and argan oil are all wellness favorites that are readily accessible. The most important thing is to use high-quality oils; when possible, opt for organic, cold-pressed, and unrefined options.
Benefits
There are a wide variety of benefits to oil cleansing. Cleaning the face with natural oils rather than harsh chemicals or products can minimize the risk of overdrying or irritating the skin. Oil is also quite effective at cleansing dirt, oil, or makeup; this is why many makeup removers contain oil. Using oil can help the skin balance its sebum; by applying clean, pure oils to your face, your skin will regulate its excess production which can lead to oily skin and clogged pores.
How to Oil Cleanse
1. Start with a dry face and clean hands; do not wet your face as you would with other cleansers.
2. Pour a quarter-sized amount of oil into your palm; rub between your hands to warm slightly.
3. Begin to massage the face in slow, gentle circular motions. Take extra care with the delicate skin under the eyes. Pay attention to creases on the side of the mouth and nose where dirt can hide.
4. Wipe the oil from the face with a warm, moist towel. Repeat steps if so inclined.
At Mojave Desert Skin Shield, we have worked to create our own oil that works to both cleanse and nourish the skin. A synergistic combination of organic, antioxidant-rich, clarifying oils, our Organic Calming Cleansing Oil works to improve a wide spectrum of skin issues. With Vitamin C-rich coriander seed, sage revered for eliminating toxins and diminishing the appearance of blemishes, and cedar wood to visibly calm redness and breakouts, this clean, soothing formula effectively removes makeup and dirt without disturbing the skin’s delicate bio-balance.
