TO OIL CLEANSE, OR TO NOT OIL CLEANSE?

Unless you have been living under a rock, you have heard about the skincare product everyone is ranting and raving about, oil cleansing.

If you are like us and have oily prone skin, the idea of cleansing with oil sounds CRAZY...like not washing your face before bed CRAZY!  Thankfully though, researchers have uncovered incredible benefits of oils for skin (both cleansing and oils in general) for soothing, healing and even curbing and treating acne.  

Cleansing with oils is a gentle and effective way to remove makeup, soothe sensitive skin (hello, perfect for the upcoming harsh winter weather) and tame the most unrelenting blemishes.

So, now that we've piqued your interest, let's talk about the nitty gritty in how oil cleansing actually cleanses.  When you typically think about "cleansing" you think about creating a lather or foam to whisk away dirt, oil and grime.  Depending on the products ingredients, oil cleansing can actually do both too, but most true oil cleansers emulsify only a little if they are made with only pure oils and you simply use warm water and a washcloth for the best effect.  The basic idea behind oil cleansing is that slathering your face in oils in the name of removing the day's build-up of oils and nastiness is "like dissolves like," so putting clean, nourishing, good oils on your skin will:

• lift away excess oil, known as sebum, the oily substance produced by glands on your skin
• clean out your clogged pores and lift away blackheads and whiteheads
• remove caked on makeup, dead skin and other pollutants
• oils used for cleansing also typically have healing properties, important nutrients and other skin-boosting benefits

So are you convinced?  Ready to find the best oil cleanser for your skin type?

Here are some of our favorite potent oils to look for when searching for your favorite cleansing oil:

Don't worry though, we won't make you do all the research, below find some of our all time favorite oil cleansers:

Brand: Pleni Naturals

Product: Enzyme Cleansing Oil

Why we love it: A great skincare routine starts with a good, deep cleanse and this certified non-toxic formula effortlessly lifts and removes makeup, dirt and debris while cleaning out pores - as only an oil cleanser can do - plus gently exfoliates with enzymatic papaya. Safe for all skin types including sensitive, acne-prone and for use during pregnancy. Essential oil free formula. Scented with a touch of vanilla. 

• PAPAYA enzyme gently dissolves dead skin cells so skin is left feeling fresh, soft, and prepared for leave-on skincare products.

• CUCUMBER seed oil is comprised of omegas rich in phytosterols, tocopherols and minerals which aid in soothing skin and replenishing moisture balance.

• BROCCOLI seed oil leaves the skin feeling nourished and protected post rinse thanks to its unique blend of essential fatty acids and vitamins plus its lightweight, non-greasy texture.

Cost: $48 / 3.4oz.

 

Brand: Sahajan

Product: Essential Cleansing Oil

Why we love it: In Ancient India, oils were used for centuries to cleanse skin without stripping away the essential moisture necessary for a healthy complexion. Our rich blend of  Moringa, Squalane, and Rose oils melts through even the most stubborn waterproof makeup, removes daily grime and pollution leaving your skin fresh, clean and glowing.

Cost: $48 / 4oz.

Brand: Kahina Giving Beauty

Product: Oil Cleanser

Why we love it: Dissolve makeup, sunscreen and bacteria with this nourishing oil cleanser that leaves skin clean and soft without residue. Super hydrating, antioxidant rich plant oils combine with healing and anti-inflammatory Calendula, Turmeric and Blue Tansy to calm and detoxify skin. Luxuriate in the scent of a blend of all natural neroli and geranium essential oils.

• CALENDULA: Stimulates healing through antiseptic and antimicrobial action
• TURMERIC: anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory to combat acne and reduce redness
• BLUE TANSY: Reduces redness and irritation, soothes and calms
• JOHN'S WORT: Rich in flavonoids, helps heal and repair damaged skin

Cost: $59 / 3.3oz.

 

Brand: Votary

Product: Cleansing Oil - Rose Geranium and Apricot

Why we love it: Loved by beauty editors the world over and recommended for all skin types. Rose Geranium and Apricot Cleansing Oil cleanses your skin beautifully and thoroughly without it feeling dry and tight.

Made from 100% natural, pure plant oils, Rose Geranium and Apricot Cleansing Oil is lightweight and gentle with a lovely easy slip on the skin. It contains nourishing apricot oil and jojoba and is brilliant at whisking away every trace of the day, including grime, environmental toxins, sunscreen and make-up (even waterproof mascara). It’s for how clean happy skin feels.

Apricot oil works to nourish and hydrate dry and mature skin whilst rose geranium oil tightens, brightens and removes dead skin cells. The addition of sunflower seed oil is rich in Vitamin E and minimizes redness and skin inflammation.

Cost: $72 / 3.4oz.