The Oil Cleansing Method: Using Coconut Oil For Beautiful Skin

Oil cleansing is one of the most effective ways to clean your skin naturally, and the best part is that it works perfect for almost all skin types.

So exactly what is oil cleansing? Oil cleansing is traditionally used on the face, however for a deep moisturising treatment you certainly could treat your body to it once or twice a week. How oil cleansing works is that it pulls out dirt and impurities from the pores whilst balancing the skins natural oil production. Unlike harsh face cleaners that strip your face oil, oil cleansing nourishes and moisturises the skin, maintaining a natural and healthy pH balance in the skin.

I have used oil cleansing for over 6 years and never had a problem with break-outs. I must admit, I was extremely nervous at first putting oil on my face, however I have had nothing but wonderful results.

You can work with any oil you like to do oil cleansing; however, my favourite is coconut oil as I find it tends to leave my skin feeling more nourished and hydrated.

Why Coconut Oil Is Good For Your Skin

  • It has antibacterial and antifungal properties which are great for treating acne and eczema.
  • It won't strip your skin of natural oils and change the pH balance. When the pH balance of your skin is disrupted it can cause irritation.
  • Loaded with antioxidants that will feed and nourish the skin.
  • A great natural skin hydrator that will plump out skin cells and help diminish fine lines and wrinkles.
  • Pulls out dirt, toxins and residue from pores.
  • Great for stripping away dull dead skin cells, leaving you with a fresh dewy complexion.
  • Believe it or not, it actually slows down oil production in skin, therefore making it wonderful for acne problems caused by over sebum production.  
  • It's great for almost all skin types, however some people may be prone to break out. If you do breakout try mixing the coconut oil with a light carrier oil such as jojoba oil.

What You Need:

 Cleaning Your Face:

Step 1: Scoop out the coconut oil and warm it up in your hands. If you are adding some essential oils now is the time to add a drop or two. Gently massage the coconut oil into your face for about a minute or so. If you want a deep clean then leave it on for up to 10 minutes. The oil will strip away any make-up so no need to remove makeup prior to cleansing.

Step 2: Open up the warm wet washcloth over your face, the heat and steam will open up the pores and pull out all the grime and dirt.

Step 3: After about 30 seconds lightly remove the coconut oil with washcloth.

Step 4: If you feel like you need to wash your skin further then splash some warm water over your face to remove any excess oil.

Step 5: Your skin should feel nourished and moisturised so there is no need for any moisturiser. However, if you like the feel of putting on moisturiser after cleansing then you can use a little rosehip oil or a good quality natural moisturiser.

Things To Note

  • Most people find they have fantastic results using coconut oil on their face. However, if you have tried it and causes you to break out then first try diluting it with jojoba oil, and if that doesn’t work use 100% jojoba oil.
  • 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 prolong the adjustment period.
  • If you decide to oil cleanse in the shower, make sure to clean your shower floor regularly so it doesn’t get slippery.