Oil Cleansing Method
What is Oil Cleansing Method or OCM?
Oil Cleansing Method or OCM is the use of plant oils to cleanse the body or face. It can be a single oil or a combination of two or several oils.
If we want to simplify our routine or test if we are sensitive or allergic to a particular oil (e.g., allergy to nuts), using a single oil may be the better way to do it. It is easier to pinpoint the culprit when you have less products in case an allergy happens.
Sometimes, I switch my oils but reserve the more expensive ones or those that I source overseas, for my serum.
I discovered OCM about 3 years ago. I began studying about skincare formulation, became part of an amazing community and decided to apply what I had been learning.
I do not put a lot of stuff on my face. But with the dirt and dust of everyday life, the face still needs to get cleaned, or I break out. Even If I do not go out as much as I used to, I still make it a point to clean my face daily.
How to do the OCM
On clean hands, I place a few drops of the oil, spread over palm and massage the face and neck.
I get a warm washcloth and place it over my face to open the pores. Then I wipe off the oil on my face and neck.
If I do not have a washcloth, I use cotton to wipe the oils off. I still wash my face with my handmade soap to remove the excess oils. But, if you feel that you have cleansed your face enough, then it is alright not to do so.
The next step is to apply toner and moisturizer.
Steps in Preparing the Cleansing Oil
Weigh the oils using a weighing scale. Use a pipette to avoid spills when pouring the oil from the container.
Mix the oils in a sanitized beaker.
Then, bottle up the oil and label the container.
Enjoy!
Sample Oil Combination
This is the face cleansing oil that I have just prepared.
Ingredients
Sunflower Oil
Helianthus annus (Sunflower seed) oil
Sunflower oils are inexpensive. Sunflower seed oil is a great source of vitamin E and is rich in nutrients and antioxidants. It has emollient properties that help the skin keep its moisture.
Avocado Oil
Persea gratissima (Avocado) Oil
This oil is high in carotenoids. They provide protection against the sun’s UV rays and help repair and soften skin tissues, and those with sensitive skin or damaged skin. It contains Vitamins A, B, and E, proteins, amino acids and phospholipid lecithin.
Argan Oil
Argania Spinosa (Argan) Nut Oil
It is emollient, nourishing, and considered anti-aging, anti-inflammatory, and moisturizing.
Castor Oil
Ricinus communis (Castor) Seed Oil
It is thick and viscous yet, absorbed by the skin. Because of its viscosity, a small percentage is ideal.
I have often read about castor oil being able to thicken lashes or eyebrows, but have not tried it.
Factors Affecting Oil Selection
Know your skin type (is it acne prone? dry?) What are you trying to achieve?
Do you have allergies?
What are the properties of the oils?
Is the oil comedogenic or noncomedogenic?
Have you tried the Oil Cleansing Method? What are your favorite oils to use?
Do share.
