Let me start with a disclaimer: I don’t have perfect skin. But suffering from a multitude of skin problems have meant that I’ve got really good at looking after my skin and so I wanted to share with you this really simple and affordable method for basic skincare.
When my skin was at its worst, I spent a lot of time and money trying to find natural products which would soothe the discomfort and hopefully help me to look more like a normal human. This was mainly a fool’s errand, but one of the things I did find helpful was applying oil topically to my face. I’d massage it in for a few minutes and then, because I didn’t want to go around with an oily face (!), I’d wipe it off with a flannel.
I later found out that this was a simplified version of what’s called the Oil Cleansing Method – which usually works by steaming your face first (to open pores) and using a blend of oils tailored to your specific skin type. My lazy method works great for me though, so I’m sticking with that – though I’d love to hear any of your recommendations!
There are lots of different oils recommended for this. My personal favourite is grapeseed because it is cheap, light-textured and easily absorbed by my skin. It is also one of the oils least likely to cause an allergic reaction. I’ve also used avocado (which I found a bit too thick and rich) argan oil (pricey) and sweet almond oil. I’ve always bought them organic and cold-pressed which is more expensive but a little goes a long way. I’ve heard it’s best to avoid coconut and olive oils for this as they can make you break out although I haven’t tried them.
For 1
INGREDIENTS
- ½ tsp of liquid oil of your choice
- a clean facecloth (I like muslin ones because they are extra gentle)
METHOD
- Pour the oil into the palm of your hand and apply to your face.
- Massage into your skin gently for 30 seconds.
- Soak the facecloth in warm water and wring out the excess. Use it to gently wipe the oil from your face.
- Rinse the facecloth and then soak in cold water before laying it on your face for a few seconds to close your pores.
- Repeat this step if necessary.
- Pat your skin dry with a towel.
- Your skin should feel nice and moisturised but you can apply a moisturiser if you still feel it needs it.
Straight after drying my face. Even before moisturiser, my skin is calm and isn’t tight at all.
