Whilst we tend to avoid using oil on our faces, researchers are beginning to highlight the benefits oils have for the skin. Not only do the products aim to soothe and heal the skin, but the ingredient also helps to lift off excess sebum left on your skin, clean out clogged pores, and remove dead skin cells, dirt and makeup.

HOW DOES IT WORK?

Based on the simple chemistry of oil molecules attracting other oil molecules, massaging your face with your face oil, oil will bind to the lipids on your skin, clear away sebum, and draw out oil plugs stuck in your pores.

Whilst we tend to avoid using oil on our faces, researchers are beginning to highlight the benefits oils have for the skin. Not only do the products aim to soothe and heal the skin, but the ingredient also helps to lift off excess sebum left on your skin, clean out clogged pores, and remove dead skin cells, dirt and makeup.

1. Start with dry skin (as water separates from oil)
2. Massage for at least 15 minutes.
3. Turn your tap water to HOT. Now, using a fresh face towel, completely wet your towel with hot water. Once wet, squeeze out all the water so you left with a damp hot towel. Put it on your face and push it into your skin for a minute. Once the towel has started to cool down wipe away all the oil on your skin. If you feel any oil residue you can repeat this step.
4. Follow up with a water-based cleanser to clear off any remainder oils left on your skin.

CHOOSING A CLEANSING OIL

There are lots of premixed oils on the market that you may find for your skin type, however, creating your blend is very simple and allows you to cater exactly to your skin type.

FINDING THE PREFECT BLEND

The most common blend is Castor Oil and Olive Oil. Castor Oil has antibacterial properties helping you to fight acne, anti-bacterial properties to help reduce swelling and puffiness, and is full of fatty acids, maintaining good skin health and moisture. As Castor Oil is very thick, it should be mixed with a carrier oil, like Olive Oil before applying it to your face. Olive Oil is rich in vitamins A, D, E, and K, as well as being an antioxidant as it contains a high concentration of squalene.

Use Castor Oil and Olive Oil in a 1:1 ratio but adjust for the following –

• For dry skin – increase the amount of olive oil to your desire for dry skin, as it promotes hydration. Castor Oil and Olive Oil in a 2:3 ratio works great.
• For oily skin – increase the amount of castor oil to your desire for oily skin, as well as add jojoba oil to reduce oil production. Castor Oil, Olive Oil, and Jojoba Oil in a 5:4:1 ratio works great.
• For sensitive skin – Use very little Castor oil as it causes skin drying, and use Olive oil and jojoba oil instead.

IMPORTANT TIP: PATCH TEST
A patch test can help you check for any potential unwanted reactions before you use a product on a large part of your skin. It’s always recommended to do a patch test before trying any new skincare product.

1. Apply a small amount of oil to a less-visible section of your face, such as your jawline or just under your ear.
2. Leave the area alone for 24 hours.
3. Check for any signs of irritation, including itching, swelling, inflammation, or changes in skin color.
4. If you don’t notice any changes, you can try using the oil or cleansing product on the rest of your face.