One of the best facial care methods I have come across is the oil cleansing method. I have had excellent success with this regime, and it is part of my current routine. The oil cleansing method is based on the truth that oil dissolves oil. That black stuff in your pores? Oil and dead skin. Believe it or not, Dawn© dish soap uses this principle to remove oil from animals and grease from plates. Dawn© is a petroleum-based soap; oil dissolves oil.
When your skin is too dry it produces excess oil to help regain the required moisture level. Too much oil results in shine and blemishes.
For my first attempt with the oil cleansing method, I used extra virgin olive oil from my kitchen. I have since branched out and purchased cosmetic-grade palm oil and coconut oil. Unlike olive oil, the palm oil and coconut oil are lighter and feel like they moisturize the skin better. You can use any type of oil you like; grape seed oil, castor oil, and sunflower seed oil are all acceptable alternatives. If you do some research, you can find an oil that has the properties you are looking for. I highly recommend the website From Nature With Love. They offer quality products used by cosmetic companies around the world.
The next step in this process is to steam your pores. This was the only downside to the oil cleansing method for me. Steaming your face, applying the oil, and then steaming your face again is not a quick process. To steam your face, microwave a bowl of water, cover your head with a towel, and let the steam coat your skin. I found that having a hot washcloth over your face does just as well.
Take your oil of choice and liberally apply it to your skin. You want enough of it on the surface to create a smooth layer. Having this much of the oil on the surface means it will strip off easier at the end of the process. While covered in oil, steam your face again. This step allows the olive oil to penetrate and mix with the gunk in your pores.
The final step is to use a clean, warm washcloth and wipe the oil away. The washcloth should be hot enough to keep your pores open during this last step. You don’t want to use cold water for fear of sealing oil in.
When the oil cleansing is finished, you should be blackhead-free and left with soft, moisturized skin.
