If you’ve ever tried the Oil Cleansing Method (OCM) for your skin and felt like it made your complexion worse, you’re not alone. In this blog post, I’ll share what to do if you’re worried, the oil cleansing method ruined my skin.
Explaining why the oil cleansing method can be detrimental to certain skin types and providing tips on steps you can take to restore balance and improve your skin’s health. Keep on reading to find out more…
What Is The Oil Cleansing Method Using Cleansing Oil?
The Oil Cleansing Method (OCM) is a popular skincare technique used to cleanse the skin and remove makeup. This method uses natural oils to effectively deep clean, moisturize, and soothe all types of skin.
The basic idea behind OCM is that “like dissolves like” – meaning oil will dissolve other oils on your skin and help remove dirt, makeup, excess sebum or any other impurities.
For example, coconut oil contains anti-fungal properties which can help reduce breakouts caused by bacteria which cause redness in the T zone area of your face. It also helps repair damaged skin cells and improve your overall complexion.
Another suitable option for OCM is Castor oil – it’s rich in Vitamin E, Omega 6 fatty acids and Ricinoleic acid that helps kill bacteria while repairing the skin’s damaged tissues. As an added bonus, Castor oil has been known to encourage eyelash growth when used as an eyelash serum.
Because OCM removes toxins from your pores without stripping away essential oils from your face, you’ll find it’s much gentler on your skin than traditional cleansers.
That being said, it’s still important to use only natural plant-based ingredients, meaning no petrochemicals such as mineral oil, which can clog pores, leading to breakouts.
To practice OCM, simply mix one part castor oil with three parts carrier (Sunflower / Sweet Almond etc.). These are lighter oils that won’t be too heavy for everyday cleansing.
Smooth this over dry areas with damp hands in upwards circular motions before taking a hot steamy cloth over the whole face, massaging outwards towards the edges – avoiding the eyes. You should rinse any remaining residue off with warm water afterward, patting it dry gently.
OCM is suitable for all ages, genders and skin types, but problematic acne-prone skin types should avoid using this method as well as those who have very sensitivities as reactions could result if not done correctly.
Despite this, many people swear by this ritualistic beauty treatment due to its positive effects, such as reducing fine lines and wrinkles, nourishing and rejuvenating dull complexions, helping us achieve true harmony between ourselves and our environment.
What Are The Benefits Of The Oil Cleansing Method To Wash Your Face?
The oil cleansing method (OCM) is an effective and all-natural way to cleanse your face and remove makeup, dirt, and bacteria. Using the cleansing oil can help purge the skin of blackheads, sebaceous filaments, and other impurities without irritating or drying out the skin.
The method is simple—all you need is a mixture of oils such as castor oil and jojoba oil (or whatever combination works best for your skin); you’ll also need some warm water. The benefits of oil cleansing are many.
To begin, massage the oil into your dry face for about 2 minutes to loosen any debris that may have built up over time; then submerge a damp washcloth in hot water (hot but not too hot) and press it against your dry skin.
Hold it there until it cools off; this will help open up your pores and clear out any dirt or impurities that were loosened by the facial massage. Follow this with another round of facial massage; after a few more minutes, rinse everything off with cold water.
The benefits of using the OCM are many: firstly, using natural oils helps to gently cleanse and nourish your skin without harsh chemicals, which in turn can reduce inflammation and redness often caused by a harsher oil cleanser.
It can dramatically improve symptoms associated with oily/acne-prone skin by helping to balance oil production because natural oils are much better at controlling excess sebum than man-made products can be.
Also, it helps protect delicate facial skin from environmental aggressors due to its antioxidant properties, which help strengthen the skin’s barrier function while removing dirt and other toxins that may otherwise clog pores, leading to breakouts or acne pustules.
What Are The Cons Of The Oil Cleansing Method To Cleanse Your Skin?
The Oil Cleansing Method (OCM) is a popular skincare trend, popularized by TikTok. While this method has proven to be beneficial for some people who use it, there are also negative aspects of using OCM that should be considered before you use oil on my face.
One major downside of using OCM is that it may not work for all different skin types. People with oily or acne-prone skin may find that the oil can clog their pores, leading to breakouts and irritation.
Those with sensitive skin might find that an oil blend could cause redness and itching due to certain oils in the mix being too strong or irritating for their delicate skin barrier.
It’s important to research oils carefully before selecting one as part of your OCM routine, so you understand how they will affect your specific skin type.
Another drawback of OCM is that it requires more time and effort than other skincare methods; depending on how long your cleansing ritual lasts, this type of cleansing could end up taking several minutes per day if done correctly.
Which is more than enough time to make it impractical for some people’s daily routines. Since multiple oils must often be combined when creating an individualized blend for optimal results, OCM can become more expensive than just using a single product like regular soap or cream cleansers can be.
Finally, because OCM works best when done daily or twice daily—especially if used together with double cleansing methods—your facial oil supply may deplete quickly over time; this means that having a consistent supply on hand at all times becomes necessary if you decide to make this method part of your regular skincare routine.
How To Do The Oil Cleansing Method?
The oil cleansing method has become increasingly popular recently for its natural, gentle way of removing dirt and excess oil from the skin.
It offers a deep cleanse without stripping away beneficial oils that keep the skin healthy. The process involves using natural plant-based oils such as jojoba, castor, and sunflower to dissolve impurities on the surface of the skin. Here are the steps to take, when doing this method:
Step 1: Start by heating a tablespoon of your chosen oil(s) — we recommend jojoba oil because it works well with all skin types—in your hands to create a warm lather.
Step 2: Massage this mixture onto your face in a circular motion, focusing mainly on areas where you tend to have more congestion, such as around the nose or chin.
Allow the oils to sit and penetrate your pores for 1–2 minutes before rinsing off with lukewarm water.
Step 3: After rinsing off all traces of oil, soak a washcloth in hot water (as hot as you can stand it), place it over your face until cool and then use it to gently scrub away any remaining makeup or debris left behind from the cleansing step.
Repeat if desired. Note that some very light residue may remain, but don’t worry—it will be absorbed quickly into your freshly cleansed skin in no time at all.
Step 4: Use a toner or micellar water appropriate for your specific skin type after cleansing and pat dry with a clean towel. Then proceed with applying other skincare products according to the daily skincare routine, like serum and moisturizer.
Which Oils Are The Best For The Oil Cleansing Skincare Method?
The oil cleansing skincare method has been gaining in popularity due to its effectiveness at removing dirt, makeup and impurities from the skin without the need for harsh chemical cleansers, using natural ingredients.
It involves massaging a combination of oils onto dry skin and rinsing with warm water. The best oils for this method depend on individual skin type, but there are five that stand out as particularly well-suited: avocado oil, sunflower oil, almond oil, grapeseed oil and safflower oil.
Avocado oil is rich in vitamins A, D and E as well as essential fatty acids which help reduce inflammation and nourish the skin. It can be used alone or blended with other oils for added moisturizing benefits.
Sunflower oil is another good option since it’s light in texture yet still provides plenty of antioxidants, making it great for all skin types.
Almond oil helps retain moisture while promoting cellular regeneration, which makes it an excellent choice if your skin needs extra hydration or rejuvenation help.
Grapeseed oil has astringent properties that can help balance excess sebum production while providing additional vitamins C and E to deeply nourish your complexion.
Finally, safflower seed oil fights both acne and wrinkles with its linoleic acid content, which keeps pores clear and boosts collagen production, respectively.
All these oils have their own unique qualities that make them beneficial when used in the right combination based on personal preference or skincare requirements.
Which Skin Type Is Best For The Oil Cleansing Method?
The oil cleansing method works best for those with dry or normal skin types, since individuals with these skins are more likely to have lower amounts of sebum (oil).
This means they can benefit from adding small amounts of healthy oils into their regimen, while avoiding irritation due to too much oil being present on the face.
Those with oily or combination skin should use caution when trying out OCM, as they may experience overproduction of sebum and clogged pores if too much oil is used during the cleansing process.
OCM can be beneficial for any type of complexion; however, one should always use extra precaution when tailoring it to their specific needs.
Tweaking your own regimen by experimenting with different types and amounts of oil can help you find what works best for you and keep your routine tailored around your desired results, so you end up having healthy, glowing skin.
Which Best Cleansing Oils Can You Use For The Oil Cleansing Method?
The Oil Cleansing Method is a popular skin care regime that uses natural oils, like coconut oil or jojoba oil, to cleanse and moisturize the skin.
When it comes to the best oils for oil cleansing, different oils can be used depending on individual needs and preferences, but some of the most popular options include tea tree oil, argan oil, rosehip oil, hemp oil, pumpkin seed oil, and jojoba oil.
Tea tree oil has anti-bacterial properties that are great for clearing out acne causing bacteria, while also calming inflammation, to give you the perfect skin.
Argan oil is a lightweight yet deeply nourishing option that can help strengthen the skins barrier against pollutants or irritants, as well as reduce redness in sensitive areas.
Rosehip oil contains vitamin C which helps to brighten up dull skin, while its antioxidant properties protect from free radical damage.
Hemp oil (or hemp seed oil) is rich in omega fatty acids that provide intense hydration with lasting results. Pumpkin seed oil naturally balances sebum production, so your skin looks healthy and isn’t too greasy or dry throughout the day.
All these oils have amazing benefits when used properly for OCM, based on your skin type. Jojoba is an excellent all around choice since it mimics our natural skin sebum, however any combination of these oils can be beneficial to your skincare routine.
Which Oils Should You Avoid For The Oil Cleansing Method?
While some oils like castor oil, jojoba oil, and grapeseed oil are great for the Oil Cleansing Method, there are certain other oils that should be avoided.
Baby oil and mineral oil should be completely avoided for the Oil Cleansing Method, as they can strip your skin of its natural oils and leave it feeling dry or even irritated.
These two oils in particular have been known to clog pores and cause breakouts, which is precisely what you’re trying to avoid with the Oil Cleansing Method.
If you’re using these types of oils on your skin, it won’t be able to breathe properly, so your skin is still feeling oily even though you’ve cleansed it numerous times.
In conclusion, if you’ve heard of the oil cleansing method but aren’t sure which type of oil is best suited for you, then look into avoiding baby oil and mineral oil all together.
These two types of oils can strip your skin’s natural protection layer, leaving it vulnerable to irritation or infection, while also causing clogged pores and breakouts in some cases.
Instead opt for lighter, more breathable options such as castor oil, jojoba oil or grapeseed oil – each one will give you clean hydrated skin without stripping away any essential oils or leaving it feeling too dry.
Oil Cleansing Method Ruined My Skin – What Should I Do?
OCM ruined my skin, what should you do? If you recently tried oil cleansing, and it has left your skin feeling worse than before, don’t worry – there are still steps you can take to get the clear and healthy skin you deserve.
Often, an oil dissolves impurities for one’s skin type can lead to serious inflammation and irritation. It may even cause comedones or plugs to form in pores, which can ultimately result in cysts or cystic acne.
To begin getting back on track with properly caring for your skin, it’s important to first identify what about the oil cleansing method caused such disruption in your regimen.
If the issue is related more to product selection than technique mistakes, then finding new products tailored specifically toward your unique skin needs will go a long way in achieving healthier results.
Be sure that when applying cleansers (oil-based or otherwise) you do so gently with light motions rather than harsh scrubbing so as not to further instigate any existing irritation.
Following facial cleansers with a suitable toner could also help reduce existing redness as well as improve overall texture. Lastly — and perhaps most importantly — moisturizers should never be skipped post-cleansing.
This will help balance pH levels while simultaneously hydrating dry areas of the face; two necessary actions for restoring a healthy complexion after suffering through comedones or cyst breakouts from using an improper oil cleansing routine.
Reasons Why the Oil Cleansing Method Can Ruin Your Skin
The oil cleansing method is a popular skin care technique which involves using oils to remove makeup and impurities from the skin. While this approach may be effective for some, it can cause significant damage to those with oily or combination skin types.
Firstly, because natural oils are heavy and can clog pores and create a barrier against your skin’s natural moisture balance if not correctly removed.
It may also result in irritation due to its strong ingredients, as well as an overproduction of sebum, which can lead to blemishes or aggravate existing ones.
The presence of bacteria on your hands during application can harm delicate facial tissue, leading to breakouts and other unwelcome side effects.
As such, it is recommended that you consult a dermatologist before beginning this skincare regimen to ensure it is suitable for your individual needs.
Plus, the use of wash cloths to remove the oil, can be too abrasive, and overthrow your skin’s natural barrier. All in all, the oil cleansing method may not be the best choice for everyone, and it’s important to be mindful of its potential consequences.
Clogged Pores From Excess Sebum Production
Although many people find this method effective for cleansing, it can lead to clogged pores from excess sebum production.
Sebum is a waxy substance that is naturally produced by the skin’s sebaceous glands, and when too much of it builds up on the surface of a pore, it can cause blockages and resulting acne breakouts.
To avoid clogged pores from OCM, experts recommend opting for lighter oils such as olive or jojoba, both of which are known to regulate oil production without over-stripping your face.
Only use an exfoliant two to three times per week, as aggressive scrubbing can irritate the skin and trigger excess sebum production.
Be sure to remove all remaining oil skin care products with lukewarm water after cleansing—cold water will leave oils lingering on the face and encourage buildup in the pores.
Breakdown of Skin Barrier and Irritation from Heat/Warm Washcloths
OCM can be helpful for removing makeup, oil and dirt from the face, but it can also cause breakdown of the skin barrier, leading to redness, irritation and potentially other skin conditions such as dermatitis.
Warm washcloths used in this method are often too abrasive on delicate facial tissues, leading to heat-induced irritation, which further disrupts the protective layer of your skin, to get rid of dead skin cells.
Many people use extra virgin olive oil when performing OCM, which can be too heavy for some people’s skin type and clog pores.
These extreme oils contain very few antioxidants compared to lighter cleansing oils like safflower or coconut, which fight bacteria more effectively without being so harsh on the skin.
If using OCM, one should avoid applying excessive pressure with your cloths when washing your face and experiment with a different light oil cleanse until finding one that works best for you, so you can avoid inflamed skin, for optimal skin health.
Allergic Reactions to Certain Types of Oils Used in OCM
While it has been known to be greatly beneficial for many skin types, there is a potential risk of allergic reactions in certain people due to the sensitivity of their skin or allergies to certain types of oils used in OCM, like mineral oil.
The process involves massaging a combination of types of oil into the skin, allowing them to penetrate deeply and naturally remove dirt, makeup and bacteria build-up without further damaging the delicate barrier of our skin.
While natural oils often provide soothing benefits, those with sensitive or particularly fragile skin may develop allergies when exposed to certain types of essential oil ingredients.
For example, some individuals may experience minor discomfort after using products containing bergamot or eucalyptus essential oil due to their high concentration levels, which can cause irritation.
As such, these individuals should opt for milder oil ingredients such as jojoba or almond oil instead, which are more commonly tolerated by sensitive skins while still providing effective cleansing benefits.
Antibacterial Properties of Certain Oils That Can Cause Inflammation
Certain oils have antibacterial properties, which can help to prevent bacteria from growing on the skin. This helps reduce inflammation and acne flare-ups.
However, some oils are comedogenic, meaning they can clog pores and cause breakouts if used excessively for oily skin. It is important to remember that all oils should be used in moderation when following the OCM; too much of any one type of oil can irritate your skin or clog your pores.
Certain essential oils such as tea tree and lavender have natural anti-bacterial properties, but may also cause irritation if used too frequently.
To keep skin irritation at bay with the OCM approach, it is recommended to use essential oils, or use coconut oil in small amounts or only once a week for a gentle yet effective cleanse.
When done properly, the Oil Cleansing Method can provide antibacterial properties of certain oils that help to reduce inflammation while keeping the skin fresh and healthy.
How To Fix Your Skin After The Oil Cleansing Method?
The oil cleansing method can be an effective skin care tool, but it may not be right for everyone and can have adverse effects if done wrong.
To fix your skin after the oil cleansing method, you should start by taking a few steps back from the original procedure.
First, stop washing with any kind of oil, as this will only further clog your pores and strip away your natural oils that are essential for maintaining healthy skin balance. Secondly, switch to a more gentle cleanser, such as one specifically made for sensitive skin or a mild face wash with no harsh chemicals or fragrances.
Afterward, use a nourishing serum or moisturizer to soothe the dryness caused by over stripping oils from your skin.
Consider adding in some simple exfoliation into your routine to help clear out any dirt and debris that might still be hiding in clogged pores after using the oil cleansing method.
Lastly, make sure you’re drinking enough water throughout the day to keep your body hydrated and balanced inside-out.
Summary
The Oil Cleansing Method (OCM) is an effective way to naturally cleanse and moisturize the skin with natural oils like castor oil, sunflower oil, almond oil and safflower oil.
While OCM can be beneficial for many people, those with oily or acne prone skin should use caution when trying this method as it may cause breakouts or clogged pores. Those with dry or sensitive skin types may also experience irritation if not done correctly.
If you have tried the OCM and felt like it made your complexion worse, there are steps you can take to restore balance, such as finding products tailored specifically toward your unique needs, using gentle massaging strokes during application, using a suitable toner afterward, and never skipping moisturizers after cleansing.
It is also important to remember that warm washcloths shouldn’t be too hot on delicate facial tissues to avoid heat-induced irritation. With some trial and error, you can find a routine suited for your individual needs which will help promote clear and healthy skin.
Hi, my name is Gemma, and I’m the owner of MakeupMuddle.com. I’m a true beauty obsessive, and love writing about anything to do with beauty – I have been a beauty writer since 2012.
As well as owning Makeup Muddle, I also own GemmaEtc.com, and love sharing my thoughts and feelings about the greatest (and not so great) beauty products!