Oil Cleansing Method, or OCM

When cleansing and moisturizing your skin, it is imperative that you keep in mind that oil disolves oil. Do not be afraid of applying oil to your face. Oil, alone, will not cause you blemishes. Pimples, cysts, zits, blackheads and whiteheads are a result of several different factors including hormones, bacteria, dead skin cells and the buildup of these factors. Your skin naturally produces oil because it needs it. It is not a malicious force to be reckoned with, it is there for the benefit of your skin. It is naturally occurring. Oil helps lubricate, heal, protect, and moisturize your skin so that it may function properly. Properly functioning skin is beautiful, clear, and glowing.

While I'm talking about the benefits of oil applied externally, I'd like to mention how important it is to moisturize from the inside as well. WATER! Drink no less than 8 glasses of water a day. If your skin has issues with blemishes, drink up! Water will help release and remove the toxins from within, leaving behind glowing, dewey, toned skin. Carry a bottle of water around with you throughout the day so water is always available.

Now, to the point of this article.

Extra Virgin Olive Oil (EVOO) is used for moisture, while Castor Oil (CO) is used for cleansing. Castor Oil tends to be a bit on the thick side, so a mix of the two (EVOO/CO) is frequently used. This allows for the Castor Oil to really sink into the pores and draw out the dirt and grime to the surface. You can vary this ratio to match your skins needs. More EVOO for moisture or more CO for cleansing (25/75 EVOO/CO for Oily skin, or 75/25 EVOO/CO for dry skin). EVOO is incredibly high in antioxidants, while CO is excellent for drawing and healing. CO has been the focus of many books and medical discussion because of its seemingly "magical" healing properties. It only makes sense (after a bit of research) that one would use CO on their face to help treat blemishes and acne, or simply to make their skin look and feel better.

As quoted in The Oil That Heals by Dr. McGarey, a country doctor (unknown?) states, "Castor oil will leave the body in better condition than it found it."

The Routine:
Massage a substantial amount (the cup of your palm, while hand is held open) of EVOO/CO into your face and neck.

This is to be done over makeup or any visible dirt. Take this time to give yourself a facial massage. Really work the oil into your skin. Take your time, breathe deeply, and relax. Sit down to do this if it helps.

You, of course, do not have to sit and relax, but keep in mind that stress isn't good for your skin and you should take any moment you can to destress and let tension float away.

Take a washcloth, terry cloth or flannel preferred, and soak it in steamy hot water. Wring it out and drape it over your face.

What we are doing is steaming your face as an esthetician would, but without the steam machine. You want to open your pores. This helps release any impurities from deep within your pores.

As the washcloth begins to cool, gently wipe the oil and dirt away. This will also help remove any dead skin cells that are stubbornly clinging on.

Rinse the washcloth out in hot water and wipe away any remaining impurities. You may have to do this two or three times more to remove any remaining dirt and oil residue, but it will come off leaving your skin with a beautiful, healthy glow. No additional cleansing is necessary.

After you have rinsed well, you can either splash your face with cool water to help tone and close your pores, or if your face feels tight, you can moisturize.

If your skin feels tight, take a tiny drop of your EVOO/CO, rub it between your clean, damp palms and pat it into your damp skin. Massage any oil residue into your skin so there is no film of oil left sitting on the surface. Being prone to breakouts, myself, I've found that this is perhaps the most important step.
Your skin should glow now. :D

HTHS!
Steph
:flowers:

Now to find these oils..there is a store in town I can go look there OR the internet is always good and I don't have to drive to town :D Thanks again for posting: Is this stuff in most grocery stores? Peace!

Yup! You'll find EVOO in your cooking oils section and CO in the laxatives section (I know, I know LOL). The CO is usually in a small-ish bottle and has a slight golden color - comparable to Jojoba if you know what color that is. Look towards the bottom of the shelf, as it's rather inexpensive and not as commonly purchased as, say, Milk of Magnesia (which is GREAT for the skin, too! LOL!!!).

Who knew we'd be buying our skin care products from the laxatives section. :rolleyes: LOL

Let me know if I can help. :D

:D :D :D Yay! I was so happy to find you took the time to post all that information. Thank you so much.

It's been 2 days that I have been using this method and from the first time my skin felt better than in a long time. It's not as tight anymore after I cleanse, and no new breakouts so far.

I didn't have the removal part figured out, I was just wiping but it seemed to pull on my skin, so the method you described looks a lot gentler, I'll try it tonite.

The CO/EVOO mix is interesting, I was just using plain Olive Oil. Now I know what to do with the CO bottle I have sitting around.

Thanks for the help, this is one of the better forums out there. I always find the posters to be kind and friendly.

I've been using oil to clean my face since May, and I love it! Love it, love it, love it. :D 8) :D My skin has never felt or looked better. I do find that I only need to use the oil once a day or once every other day, the rest of the time I just rinse my face with warm water. (I don't wear a lot of makeup, though, and what I do use is water-washable.) My face is no more oily than when I was using more traditional cleansers, and my minimal breakouts have become virtually non-existent!

I came across OCM in a thread here (in May) - I think it was Jonobie and Tresses who were using oil with good results. I was intrigued but apprehensive, initially the idea seemed counter-intuitive. I've been using equal amounts of Apricot Kernel Oil and Castor Oil with some EO's added. Next batch I might try EVOO, just to see how it compares.

The additional info here about steaming before removing - which I will be adding to my routine, and the explanation about why is *does* work is really helpful.

Thanks, Steph! ;)

I will deffinately try it today!
I´ve used olive oil quite often (as well on my face just to moisturise
during the night- time.)
It´s got me through phases when my skin is feeling sensitive
and I need something just natural without anything
´extra´considering chemicals.
What comes to the other oil...it´s every make- up artists
"secret weapon" on taking the eye make-up away.
It also nourishes eyelashes!...How about
hair then :idea: ...
Now there´s some food for thought.
I will deffinately try it...
just not today since I need to get rested
but if someone should try it for hair I would
be interested to know how everything turned out!

Great post Stephers - isn't it funny how oil has been misrepresented - I am actually going to try this. I'm currently on a skin care pilgrimage anyway. As you know I have rosacea so it's tricky :? ...g

Will definitely give this a try ... if I can find any castor oil :ponder:

How about removing eye make up ? Would that work, too ?

i loooooooooooove this OCM.

:love:

i also added some shea to the oil mixture and some eos.. sandalwood and ylangylang.... MMmmmmmmmmm :D

I voted other.

I use something sorta similar to the OCM, but my oil mix doesn't have castor oil on it. Also, I tend to use the really warm washcloth to wipe off the oil, instead of letting it sit on my face and steam it off. I might try that sometime, though.

Just as a word of warning to new starters -- be careful not to drip the oil on your clothes. It's a bit of a hassle to get oil out, I've found.

Cheers,
Jonobie

How about removing eye make up ? Would that work, too ?

Definitely. Tresses found that shea added to the mix seemed to help remove the eye makeup more easily, but it should come off just with the base castor/evoo as well.

Cheers,
Jonobie

Thanks Steph!!! :)

I have been trying jojoba (too light, I think). I will try the 50/50 olive/castor next. Is castor oil safe to use? I remember hearing some negative press on it??? So much info goes by... :D

In considering mixing my own skincare potions, I have wondered about the ingredients in common skincare items. It seems that the makers use oil to seal in moisture, and that everything else is just added to make it not separate, look prettier, smell better, feel smoother, be more spreadable, etc. In other words, the other ingredients aren't necessary. Someone please let me know if I am missing something.

I am currently using oils to cleanse, and a dilute ACV rinse or rosewater to tone (for my T-zone).

This method sounds so... delicious... but years of conditioning (pun intended) have instilled in me an absolute fear of putting oil directly on my skin. So, to tighten my resolve, a few questions:

1. Does this work well for rosacea?
2. If oil is good for skin, then why do so many products label themselves "oil free" like it's a good thing?
3. Do you *promise* I won't break out (more than usual...)?

Thanks!

I use oil to clean my face, usually sunflower or olive or some mix of whatever carrier oils I have. I think I like avocado best.

I have skin that's prone to acne, and while I wish I could say that using oils to cleanse my skin has cleared it up, it hasn't. But it also has not made it worse. It simply cleans my skin well without leaving it feeling dry.

I occasionally use plain glycerine soaps to wash my face, but I usually come back to oils.

I can't wait to try! I think this just might be the answer to all my dry skin problems :D

Excellent article, Steph!

Do you *promise* I won't break out (more than usual...)?

This was my worst fear, but I'm glad to report that so far I have absolutely no new breakouts. I do use BP every other night on the problem areas, and then a touch of oil on top after a few minutes to moisturize.

I also use a gentle scrub after each cleansing, just on the problem areas. So far that area seems to be "unclogging" if that makes sense, lots of tiny hard plugs coming out. Sorry if that's gross, but I don't know what else to call them.

Sorry that I don't know anything about roseacea, but maybe you could try a tiny area only for a little bit to see how you react, instead of your whole face?

I'm also wondering if anyone has tried this method with cooler water, since I always thought that was better for acne prone skins. If anyone has, please respond.

HTH.

Tried it for the first time tonight. Used 75% CO, 25% EVOO with a few drops of lavender EO mixed in. I could not open my eyes with all the stuff on my face, so trying to find a towel and soak it in hot water was an experience. And I did find I had to moisturize after. Right now my skin is totally glowing (though my glasses *really* need to be cleaned)! I hope it remains so easy...

So, castor oil is apparently oil from a castor bean, which I didn't know. :rolleyes:

Here's some neat info that supports Steph's cleanser recipe:

Natural Healing Properties of Castor oil: (in part)
by Dr. Vijay Shekhar Annambhotla

"The Indian System of Medicine, Ayurveda, recognizes castor oil to be a wonderful panacea for several health concerns. Botanically derived from the Ricinus communis (Linn.), castor oil belongs to the Euphorbiace family. It is an evergreen shrub, which grows wildly in warmer temperatures. All over the world, castor oil is recognized for its remarkable, many say divine, healing properties. In Ayurveda, castor oil is called Eranda taila or Gandharva Hasta (hand of celestial being) taila; in the West, it is known as Palma Christi (hand of Christ). According to Ayurveda, castor oil has pungent and sweet tastes, heating energy, pungent post- digestive effect, is heavy to digest and pacifies Vata, and increases Pitta and Kapha. Its actions are purgative, demulcent, analgesic and nervine. Cold-pressed castor oil collected from the seeds of the plant is an amazing natural multi-spectrum healing properties for various kinds of ailments.

Healing Benefits:

Skin & Hair Concerns:

Fungal infections: Castor oil prevents fungal infections of the foot and reduces itching due to sweating between the toes.
After Shave: The application of castor oil after shaving enhances smooth, soft, lustrous skin and soothes shaving burns and cuts.
Burns: Castor oil is very effective in healing minor wounds, burns and cuts, and it soothes the skin.
Cracked Heels: The regular application of castor oil on cracked heels and chapped hands restores moisture and softens the skin.
Eyebrows: The regular application of castor oil promotes clear, soft, shiny eyebrows, and prevents thinning of the eyebrows.
Hair Loss: The application of castor oil to the scalp with gentle massage helps prevent hair loss and improves hair’s luster.
Facial Oil: Gently applying castor oil on the face results in beautiful, smooth, shiny skin and enhances glow.
Pimples and Black Spots: Castor oil is beneficial in treating acne, rosacea, pimples and black spots.
Dry Skin: The regular use of castor oil topically is beneficial in healing scaly and dry skin.
Skin Ulcers: Castor oil is very useful in healing any type of external ulcers."

quoted from:
http://www.chakrapaniayurveda.com/news/sept102.html

So, I don't know answers to all your questions, but ...

2. If oil is good for skin, then why do so many products label themselves "oil free" like it's a good thing?

Because people *think* oil is bad for skin. If people thought oil was good for skin, the labels would say, "With 50% more oil!" ;-)

3. Do you *promise* I won't break out (more than usual...)?

Well, no, 'cause you might be possibly allergic to one of the oils, or the EOs, or irritate your skin with the washcloth, or ... :-) But, certainly a lot of people here have tried it and haven't broken out more. Some of us have had less problems.

Cheers,
Jonobie

Oooo great link rosepetal! I am fascinated with Ayurveda, it just makes so much sense to me. There are lots of interesting articles online at that newsletter, I'm adding it to my bookmarks. :D

http://learnayurveda.com/newsletter.html

Excellent link, Rosepetal and Dulci! Thank you!!! :D

LOL, Sasha, I did the same thing. It really is quite an experience. Especially for a product junkie like me... You can find all sorts of stuff except that darn washcloth you need! LOL

Lavender oil is an excellent oil for anyone to add to their oil mixture. It's incredibly balancing and toning. Just don't overdo it. As with most essential oils, you'll get excellent results with even a single drop mixed into your carrier oils. Too much can definitely irritate your skin. Tea Tree Oil is another great one, and one that I used for several years. Again, you only need a single drop of that in even a gallon of carrier oil to see the benefits. That's definitely good news for people like myself who do not enjoy the smell. ;)

Chia, I can't speak for everybody, but it definitely worked for me. Deep cleansing (which is what this is) is only one step to achieving healthier, better looking skin. Water consumption is a huge key factor, as is the quality of your diet. Exercise is great because the increased circulation and body heat allow for the toxins to be released - and swept away by all of that water you're drinking... ;) As for more "immediate" methods, keeping your skin free of bacteria will help you avoid the majority of your breakouts. This means that you must keep your hands off your face, wash your makeup brushes regularly, change your pillowcases regularly, and in general, be aware of everything that comes in contact with your skin.

Hot water can certainly irritate your skin and should be avoided by people with sensitive skin or those with rosacea. The key for these people is to be as gentle as possible to their skin. If you want to use the OCM, use a warm, not hot, soft flannel to take off the oil. Warm and hot water will help in removing the oil, which is very important because the initial oil you are applying is going to inevitably have all of the impurities in it. Cold or cool water just won't get the oil off without some form of commercial cleanser. If you have an aversion to using warm or hot water on your face, this method is not for you. The chances of breaking out will be much higher due to the inability to remove all traces of the "dirty" oil.

The term "Oil Free" is nothing but a marketing gimmick. In many cases, it is false advertising. Check out some labels sometime. ;)

Skin has a tendency to "overreact" when stripped of its oil. When you take away all of the oil, your skins protective "instincts" kick into overdrive to produce the oil that you have lost. By mid-morning, you're running for the tissue to blot the oil slick. If you either hadn't stripped the oil from your skin or had replaced it, chances are that you wouldn't be in this situation. Your skin wouldn't have tried so hard (and overcompensated) to replace the oil.

If you're looking into making your own products and want them to be of a creamier consistency, pick up a little emulsifying wax.

I've tried applying Castor Oil to my hair without diluting it and BOY was I sorry! LOL Working it in was NOT fun. Just too thick. Maybe someone else will have better luck, but I ended up with a lot of breakage from just trying to get it all in there (heated Castor Oil).

Anyway, sorry it took so long for me to respond. :( I have my plate full lately.

Steph
:D

As with most essential oils, you'll get excellent results with even a single drop mixed into your carrier oils. Too much can definitely irritate your skin.

Good point, Steph.

I've found that if my face feels tingly while I'm doing the oil cleaning, that it means that I've put in too much EO. When that happens (usually I didn't tip the EO bottle up quick enough or squeezed my dropper too hard :)), I always just add some more oil to dilute it back out, and the tingle goes away.

Cheers,
Jonobie

I tried the CO/EVOO last night and REALLY liked it! It will be interesting to see how this works over the long term.

BTW.... those who are using this - do you use it twice per day? In the morning as well as the evening?

TIA, Sheba

those who are using this - do you use it twice per day? In the morning as well as the evening?

Yes... I want to know too!

I love the oil cleanser at night, but when I do it in the morning, it takes forever for the oil to sink in enough for me to use my Aromaleigh mineral powder foundation. It made my brush slightly sticky this morning... :D

Maybe I should just water splash in the mornings and CO/EVOO at night???

Rosepetal - did you try putting on the Milk of Magnesia first - it's pretty great for providing slip ...g

BTW.... those who are using this - do you use it twice per day? In the morning as well as the evening?
Sheba and Rosepetal - I only use it once a day, if that. Sometimes every other day. When I use oil, it's only in the morning. The rest of the time I just rinse with warm water. But, I rarely wear any make-up, and when I do it's just water-rinsable eye-makeup. Otherwise I'd probably use the oils at night and water-rinse in the morning.

HTH :D

Rosepetal - did you try putting on the Milk of Magnesia first - it's pretty great for providing slip ...g

Hi gabiwags!

So, you mean OCM, then apply MOM, let dry, and then brush on minerals? :D

just water-rinsable eye-makeup. Otherwise I'd probably use the oils at night and water-rinse in the morning.

OK... thanks, Dianna! :D

I don't think my minerals are water-rinsable. They seem to stick a bit and require some kind of cleanser to remove them. So, I'll need to OCM at night for sure.

BTW, my face is looking quite fab since using the OCM!!! 8)

I just posted my reply to the Soapless Body Wash thread (that was the first thread I read having gotten back to the boards) - and realized that my post applies to this thread as well.

I have been using oils exclusively on my face and body for 3 years now. The reason I started doing it - I was 37 at the time and my skin was deteriorating with a frightening speed. No expensive cream seemed to work.
Then one day I was at the bookstore and I found a small book about dry body brushing. I read it on spot, went and bought a natural brush and some avocado oil and the next morning I tried the routine, described in the book - and was hooked.

Seeing the results, I started browsing the interned, looking for the information about oils and essential oils.
Found it, ordered oils and that was the end of the store purchased creams/soaps/cleansers.

I have never touched my skin with soap since then. I use only home made oil/EO mixes to apply them all over my body - and you should see my skin now.

I cleanse with oils, moisturize with oil, even heal my allergy with oils.
Can't you tell, I am in love?

:-)

z

I cleanse with oils, moisturize with oil, even heal my allergy with oils.Can't you tell, I am in love?

Hi Zoya!!!

Did you stick with the (what was it?) avocado oil for body cleansing? I only have EVOO and coconut oil in any volume.

Maybe it's in your other post... runs off to check... :)

Thanks everyone... I used the oil mix this morning and quite liked it. I think I'll do it twice a day for a while and see how it goes. I'm using 75%CO with 25% EVOO plus lavender EO.

Did you stick with the (what was it?) avocado oil for body cleansing?

No, that was my first oil. NOw I have the whole collection - starting with coconut and ending with Faraha - and everything in between.

Just have fun mixing and your skin will tell you what it likes.

I have the whole collection - starting with coconut and ending with Faraha - and everything in between.

Just have fun mixing and your skin will tell you what it likes.

OK... thank you, Zoya! :D

I have a lot of experimenting to do, especially since I have never even heard of Faraha??? :D

Thanks for the article, Steph. I've started using EVOO/castor oil again with a drop of lavender EO and a drop of tea tree oil added to the mix. I tried this cleansing method last year, but gave it up for awhile because the washcloth and hot water were too irritating on my skin. I've since found a baby washcloth that's much softer to use, and switched to warm water to remove the oils.

I use a witch hazel & ACV toner after cleansing, and follow this with Twinlabs NA-PCA spray, which is supposed to help older skin retain moisture. I finish off my morning routine with Olay Regenerist serum and sunscreen. At night I use an aromatherapy oil blend after cleansing & toning. I'm fighting both breakouts and wrinkles in my old age, and this regimen is working better than anything else I've tried. 8)

bunniee

I have been doing this since Thursday of last week...and
WOW! :shock: I have combo face skin, and this stuff is GREAT!
I like how well it cleans, and doesn't leave my skin all tight, like I'm a Hollywood star with one too many face lifts! :D

It's great. I'm using 75% EVOO, and 25% CO. I try not to think about what the CO is actually for tho :D But I bought a cheapy little (I do mean LITTLE) jar at Wal-mart when I picked up some CO, and mixed it in there, and shake it up before i use it..and whoooo hooo. pretty skin!

I haven't had NEW breakouts, but it sure has opened and cleared up the ones that were about to erupt! And afterwards, zits or no zits, my skin just glows! :DD

Thanks sooo much Steph! I'm never going back to face soap again!

Has anyone tried adding honey to the EVOO/CO mix? I did this last night and again this morning, adding about 1/2 teaspoon of honey to a small amount of EVOO/CO and mixing it up in my hand. This made my skin super soft, and seemed easier to wash off than using oils alone. 8)

bunniee

I hope you noticed the CO is best to kept under 15 degrees of Celsius
(read, the fridge...)
I preserve my oils in there for them to stay fresh.

Hmmmm. It's been almost a week I've been doing this scary OCM thing morning and night. My skin continues to glow. I am still getting the same sucky breakouts I was getting before, but I won't be surprised if I keep getting them for at least another week. My skin sometimes takes that long to decide whether or not it likes a new routine.

The only thing I don't like is that the front part of my hair (where my bangs would be if I had any) gets really greasy now if I don't wash it every day, so I've just been putting a little shampoo on my "bangs" in the shower on days that I don't wash. Anyone else found a better way to deal with this?

been putting a little shampoo on my "bangs" in the shower on days that I don't wash. Anyone else found a better way to deal with this?

Hmmm... I think that Martine's natural sponge technique would be good. You just pull your hair back and kind of dab along the hairline with a wet natural sponge and a bit of diluted shampoo, and then rinse in a similar fashion. I hope I have the main points of that technique down. It works well for fine hair that tends to look greasy after sleeping on it. :D

Well, y'all... I gave in and tried it.
The early returns (from one use) are good, but we'll see how the zits play out in the next two weeks. I used about 50/50 EVOO and Castor oil.

My face looks like it was lit from within!
I didn't have that squeaky-tight feeling that the beauty industry tells us is important and necessary, and it feels so much better this way. Soft, glowing... not "dry it out to overjuice it", as usual. It felt so good when I went to sleep, and it looked so good when I woke up!

Y'all might be on to something with the beauty industry here-- in order to sell us rich, expensive conditioners, over-dry our hair... in order to sell us rich, expensive moisturizers, over-dry our skin... sounds like a conspiracy to me! I may off to lay off the shampoo and facial soap for a while and see if the slight detergents in conditioners can cover it.

Thank you so much for posting this article, your routines and experiences and answers to our questions. I hope this method continues to work for my skin!

(PS - Anyone notice how the Castor Oil is behind the counter like a dangerous drug, while expensive Diet Pills and other purge-inducing items are out in the open? I felt like I was asking for contraband!)

other - I have not tired it am 'm not sure if I will my skin is really oily as is i dont think adding oil will be a good idea who know.s

I'm delurking to say thank you so much for this information. I've been using OCM for 2 weeks now. Two weeks ago my skin was oily with dry patches and many breakouts (we're talking pizza-like). Today, my skin is clear. NO BREAKOUTS! And using the OCM has been the only thing I have changed. I never would have believed it, especially since I have the typical oilslick-T, but that part of my face actually seems LESS oily now.

I'm still in shock at how effective this is. BTW, I use EVOO mixed with a tiny amount of Tea Tree EO and Lavender EO. Castor oil made my skin itchy and bumpy.

I'm 38 yo and have struggled with acne, oily skin, clogged pores, the WORKS, since I was 13. I feel like I've seen a miracle! :)

Lisa

ps - I love LLC, have learned so much for my hair too, but the OCM has made such an (almost) instant, noticeable difference I wanted to share.

I have the typical oilslick-T, but that part of my face actually seems LESS oily now.

I'm still in shock at how effective this is. BTW, I use EVOO mixed with a tiny amount of Tea Tree EO and Lavender EO. Castor oil made my skin itchy and bumpy.

Welcome LisaMM!!! :D

The OCM has cured my T-zone too!

I will try the plain EVOO vs. the 50/50 mix of EVOO/Castor that I am currently using to see if it makes any difference in my skin.

(PS - Anyone notice how the Castor Oil is behind the counter like a dangerous drug, while expensive Diet Pills and other purge-inducing items are out in the open? I felt like I was asking for contraband!)

Reallly??? :shock: At the Wal-Mart by my house, it's out in the open with the other laxatives... PHEW. I'd a been 9 shades of red if I"d have to ASK for it :D

I'm doing it :twisted: - I have rosacea - so far so good - will report again ...g

Maybe this is gross... but it's awesome!

This OCM is fascinating... as I was gently rubbing the oil around my face last night, when I felt a few little "crumb" things. After further investigation, I discovered they must be the oil "plugs" y'all are talking about! They looked just like the little waxy gunks that come out of old zits. I would much rather draw them out with oil cleansing than have to go through the whole zit develops-hurts-turns red-gets picked-persists in being troublesome-finally gives up the ghost 2 weeks later bit.

Day 2 of OCM = still lovin' it.
Thanks again!

I OCM'ed with Burt's Bees 'Baby Bee' Apricot Oil this morning.

It worked great too!!! :D

Hi!

I have been washing with just olive oil for the past week, and I must say that this is the best thing I have ever used to wash my face. I have very dry, sensitive skin with rosacea. What I do is smooth the oil onto my face and wash it off. The regualr washcloth was too rough for my skin so now I am using an old t-shirt. I use warm water, as hot water irritates. I think that this just may be the best advice I have gotten from this board. Thank you, thank you, thank you.

A very thankful Sweetjane

jezus, I never wanted to buy that stuff because I thought it came from the animal.
just as if they would "squeeze" a castor :D and I'm not even a real blond!!


I had been 1 year on Roaccutane to clear acne. I'm a bit scared to try oil, since it took so long to get rid of it!!

Well, after using this method for almost a month, I can say that I love it more than ever! But a very puzzling thing is happening, my skin is getting DRY on my cheeks, jawline, and neck! Now how can that be?! I'm using OIL to clean my face and neck and parts are getting dry???

Well, I do truly hate to change something that's working so well. I think for now I will change the after-cleansing oil to jojoba and see if that counteracts the dryness. If not, I will change the cleansing oil to jojoba also.

Any thoughts from those of you using the OCM??

Lisa

getting DRY on my cheeks, jawline, and neck... after-cleansing oil to jojoba

You could try rinsing with distilled water, instead of tap water.

Also, are you misting your skin before applying your after-cleansing oil? The oil only serves to trap moisture, as I understand it, so it helps to have a moist face before applying the oil, I think.

I use distilled water in my mister for both face and hair. :D

Hi RosePetal, thanks for the ideas. I *think* my face is still somewhat moist because I apply the oil for moisturizing right after cleansing, but I will make sure that it is more moist from now on. I do love what distilled water has done for my hair so I will have to remember my mister for my face too! Do you just mist your face a few times during the day? Lisa

Do you just mist your face a few times during the day? Lisa

I mist before applying the after-cleansing oil. Then, I mist to set my makeup (I use Aromaleigh minerals). I haven't tried misting at any other times, but I think I'll try it more often too. :D

Just thought I'd check in and give you an update. I've been cleansing with organic coconut oil into which I blended tea tree, rosemary, and lavender EOs. Prior to this I had been using Neutrogena acne products and prior to that I was using Proactiv. I have not been able to control my acne without using some potent stuff.

I am AMAZED how clear my skin looks using the OCM!!! I never would have thought I could achieve clear skin without acne products!!! I also am not using anything else on my face (I don't use makeup), as I've found I don't need a moisturizer since the coconut oil appears to moisturize my skin sufficiently.

Needless to say, I am IMPRESSED!!!!!!

Pixna I'm right there with you! I'll never clean my face any other way. As soon as I can I'll be getting some of the virgin coconut oil you've recommended, it sounds wonderful! Lisa

Pixna I'm right there with you! I'll never clean my face any other way. As soon as I can I'll be getting some of the virgin coconut oil you've recommended, it sounds wonderful! Lisa

Lisa, after you've had a chance to try it, please let me know how you like it! :D

Wouaaah I really want to try that method!!
The hardest part will be to find some castor oil!! :?

Wouaaah I really want to try that method!!
The hardest part will be to find some castor oil!! :?

Back to the laxatives section, once again... :D

Hi.. just followed a link from another site to here and this is amazing information. I'm definitely going to try cleansing with oil instead of soap. I've fought acne since I was 12. Certainly can't hurt anything to try this. :D

Phoebe

Hi.. just followed a link from another site to here and this is amazing information. I'm definitely going to try cleansing with oil instead of soap. I've fought acne since I was 12. Certainly can't hurt anything to try this. :D

WELCOME PHOEBE!!! :D

The OCM has really worked well for me. I hope that it works for you too! I am trying different oils right now, and I feel that they all do a nice job... coconut, olive, meadowfoam seed, apricot, castor. :D

The OCM has really worked well for me. I hope that it works for you too! I am trying different oils right now, and I feel that they all do a nice job... coconut, olive, meadowfoam seed, apricot, castor. :D

Rosie, I've got a quick question for you. What do you do if you are traveling or camping or are somewhere that doesn't have the hot water necessary to remove the oil? Yes, I do dream up unlikely hypothetical situations, but I actually was traveling last weekend and ran into water that wasn't quite hot enough. So, I'm wondering what to do if I run into water that simply isn't hot at all? Please give me a good hypothetical solution to my not-so-hypothetical problem! :D

What do you do if you are traveling or camping or are somewhere that doesn't have the hot water necessary to remove the oil?

Hmmm... stay at the Marriott??? :D

OK... OK... I am a hot water fanatic, so... I don't know how much I can help here.

I think that I would go with a lighter oil... such as meadowfoam seed, apricot oil (I like Burt's Baby Bee), or Burt's Lemon Body Oil (I think it is based on sweet almond). It really doesn't take much to wipe them off. A damp washcloth should do the trick, even if it is at room temperature.

The olive oil and castor oil are quite heavy, so I think I would leave them at home. :D

What do you do if you are traveling or camping or are somewhere that doesn't have the hot water necessary to remove the oil?

Hmmm... stay at the Marriott??? :D :D

:D :D :D I wish I could (I'm not much of a camper anyway!)!! :D :D :D

Thanks for the suggestions! Are the Burt's Bees oils good? I know I can get them locally. Is the Baby Bee just pure apricot oil? Have you found a favorite oil for cleansing yet? (Sorry for all the questions! :) )

Is the Baby Bee just pure apricot oil? Have you found a favorite oil for cleansing yet?

Burt's Bees Apricot Baby Oil Ingredients:
Apricot kernel oil, grapeseed oil, wheat germ oil, tocopheryl acetate & tocopherol (vitamin E), rosemary extract, beta-carotene, fragrance.

The fragrance is supposed to be a mix of EOs. :D

I'm still testing the oils... but, I love olive on my legs and arms. :D

and... the BB Apricot Baby oil is heavier than the BB Lemon Body oil. The Lemon oil smells heavenly... the apricot has a lovely faint scent.

Here's the "lemon" oil:

Burt's Bees Vitamin E Body and Bath Oil Ingredients:
Sweet almond oil, lemon oil, wheat germ oil, tocopheryl acetate & tocopherol (vitamin E), rosemary extract.

I like the Lemon for an all-over lighter body oil. :D

Has anyone tried jojoba oil for OCM? Just curious. I've got a fair amount of it here and that would be a great way to use it IF it's been proven to work (I don't want to invite those unwanted zits back!!).

Hey Pixnalator - I would think that jojoba and Castor would maintain most of the beneficial properties, or Grapeseed and Castor.

I believe the Castor provides the viscous consistancy that really gets the dirt out ...g

Hey Pixnalator - I would think that jojoba and Castor would maintain most of the beneficial properties, or Grapeseed and Castor.

I believe the Castor provides the viscous consistancy that really gets the dirt out ...g

Thanks, Gabs! I was hoping I could use what I've already got on hand. I don't have any castor oil -- I wasn't sure if it was essential. Dang -- do I have to go visit the laxative aisle now? :oops: :D

Has anyone tried jojoba oil for OCM? Just curious. I've got a fair amount of it here and that would be a great way to use it IF it's been proven to work (I don't want to invite those unwanted zits back!!).

I have, I have! It worked just fine. Apricot kernel oil or almond oil by themselves work fine, too. Honestly, I haven't found a huge difference between different oils -- they all work well for me. Well, except for straight castor. That stuff was seriously sticky, and a big pain to get off. I never did castor alone after that.

I slightly prefer my mix with shea in it, because my face feels slightly silkier afterwards than it does with any of the other oils. And mixes I've tried with some castor and some other oils do sit on my face more easily. But like I said, I've successfully used straight jojoba, straight almond oil, and straight apricot kernel oil all with good effect.

Cheers,
Jonobie

Ooooo -- thanks, Jonobie!! That's GREAT news!! :D

Pixna, I can't use castor oil at all it gives me a nasty rash. I've just been using EVOO with a drop or two of Tea Tree and Lavender EO's. Works wonderfully! I did end up ordering some Virgin Coconut Oil and it comes on the 15th, I can't wait to try that too!

Thanks, Lisa! I just bought some "massage oil" today that's a blend of grapeseed oil, apricot oil, sweet almost oil, and lavender, lavendin, and spike lavender EOs. It smells heavenly. I'm going to give this one a try for the OCM. If it doesn't work, maybe I can talk Hubby into some back rubs with it! :D

Thanks, Gabs! I was hoping I could use what I've already got on hand. I don't have any castor oil -- I wasn't sure if it was essential. Dang -- do I have to go visit the laxative aisle now? :oops: :D

I get castor oil at Wholefoods, in the skin care aisle. Heritage and Home Health brands of castor oil are cold-pressed and hexane free. I would personally avoid buying castor oil from the drugstore, because it may have been processed with chemical solvents.

bunniee

Thanks, Lisa! I just bought some "massage oil" today that's a blend of grapeseed oil, apricot oil, sweet almost oil, and lavender, lavendin, and spike lavender EOs. It smells heavenly.

Pixna that sounds wonderful, I have most of those too.... thinking I need to make up a different batch for OCM-ing!

Thanks, Gabs! I was hoping I could use what I've already got on hand. I don't have any castor oil -- I wasn't sure if it was essential. Dang -- do I have to go visit the laxative aisle now? :oops: :D

I get castor oil at Wholefoods, in the skin care aisle. Heritage and Home Health brands of castor oil are cold-pressed and hexane free. I would personally avoid buying castor oil from the drugstore, because it may have been processed with chemical solvents.

bunniee

Oh thanks Bunns I get mine from Food Mill (same sorta thing) - seriously folks - if you haven't tried it with the castor oil you are missing a treat.

I'll be Castor and baking soda would make a humdinger manual exfoliant ...g

I have also jumped on the bandwagon.

I just started washing my face with oil this week, and started with what I had on hand. I think my jojoba oil is bad, as the smell is a little off, but it worked ok. I also tried my Monoi oil, but that made my face all red. So I broke down and bought some cod liver oil (lol, I got mixed up and thought that I was supposed to get this instead of castor oil ... oops!). I got it from my health food store ... I got the emulsified cod liver oil. I thought it might smell better as it has a few additives, including orange. Well, it smells like a fishy orange, but it doesn't bother me.

I have found that I like using the cod liver oil. It's working well for me, doesn't feel oily when I am done. The emulsified cod liver oil contains: filtered water, cod liver oil, glycerin, sorbitol, lecithin, cellulose, orange flavors, tragacanth (astragalus) gum resin, apple pectin, liquid antioxidant blend, beta carotene. Its supposed to be a dietary supplement, its made by Twinlab, and is in a brown glass bottle. Aside from the slightly fishy smell (which fades once the oil is rinsed off), I like it better than any of the other oils I tried. It looks like an orange, slightly oily lotion.

If you don't mind a slightly orange fishy smell, you might try it. Its defineatly (sp) easier to apply than straight oil. I wonder if they have emulsified castor oil? I'll have to see if I can find it, and then I might mix them. Oh, for a 12 oz. bottle, it was 5.95.

Sheesh, I STILL can't believe that I got the wrong oil.

Hi,

I've been lurking abit around the board this week. I've been doing the EVOO and CO cleansing for a week now and I'm really amazed! My skin is so much clearer, my pores are smaller too. I'm definitely sold on this meathod of cleansing!

Next week is the time in my cycle when I normally break out more, I can't wait to see what happens. :)

Phoebe

Wow you guys, I just started using EVOO all over instead of soap by my own idea and I was very impressed with it. I only use soap for the "smelly" areas. It is waaay too much for my hair though, so I'm sticking to the CO washes with a teeny bit of jojaba oil once or twice a week.
I also use it for self-massages and shaving. Works wonders for my legs! I've always been a firm believer in my skin/hair's natural oils so this is perfectly normal for me. When I had acne on my back & face my mom told me to wash it all the time (2x a day) but I found that when I didn't wash it AT ALL (let the natural oils cleanse it, rinse them off in the shower) it actually did better.

Uh, I was just wondering, How important is it to use "extra virgin" olive oil? Would the cheaper versions work?

Extra virgin just means it's the first cold press of the olives, which gives the best flavor and the least acidity. I don't think using regular olive oil would do anything harmful.

I have tried this but have not used it consistently.

This idea intriques me.

I was so amazed when I joined this site and found this post.....my mom has been an advocate of OO forever. This is what she used instead of baby oil on all of us kids, it is what we have all used on all of our kids. Everyone in our family keeps a small squeeze bottle of OO at bedside to legs and feet each night.
BUT, even with all our different uses I never thought of just using it for cleansing, I would usually use some sort of cleanser......then use OO for moisture. Not anymore.....no more Dove for me :D and my Mom was as shocked as me!

Teacherbear.....try it!! it is great for my "Mature" skin

Wow you guys, I just started using EVOO all over instead of soap by my own idea and I was very impressed with it. I only use soap for the "smelly" areas. It is waaay too much for my hair though, so I'm sticking to the CO washes with a teeny bit of jojaba oil once or twice a week.
I also use it for self-massages and shaving. Works wonders for my legs! I've always been a firm believer in my skin/hair's natural oils so this is perfectly normal for me. When I had acne on my back & face my mom told me to wash it all the time (2x a day) but I found that when I didn't wash it AT ALL (let the natural oils cleanse it, rinse them off in the shower) it actually did better.

I think this is such a good point. No matter what methods you try - if things don't work for you doing NOTHING (or as close to it as you can come and stay sanitary) is the best thing to do. See where that takes you and then you can slowly start to experiment ...g

Um, this is kind of a stupid question, but do you put water on your face first before putting the oil on?

Definitely not a stupid question Mandi! I'm pretty sure the answer to that is no. If someone disagrees please pipe up. My reasoning is that water repels the oil and in order for the oil to do the cleansing it has to be in direct contact with your skin.

I massage the oil into dry skin for a minute or two and then hop in the shower or wash at the sink. The key for me is to use really hot water to wash.

:)

Thanks Amanda! I knew oil repelled water, but I guess I've been in the habit of putting water on my face before cleansing. Thank you!

Thanks for bumping this thread!! I tried OCM last night with cator oil and I can see and feel a difference already.

I have naturally oily skin. For nearly 10 years my skin was clear as a result of taking the birth control pill Try Cyclen. During those 10 years, gentle washing with Cetaphyl was fine, followed by a light moisturizer in cold months (to combat the flakiness. But I had to tread lightly here, because if I put even a smidge too much moisturizer on, my face would slide right off my skull it would get so oily!)

So, about a year ago I stopped taking the pill, and my skin has not agreed. It's been breaking out, but for the most part the break-outs are just small blemishes with little to no reddness, but that you can feel or see if you look closely. Though not an expert, I feel they are just pores clogges by a hardned plug of oil and other detridous. In addition, my skin has been blotchy as hell.

Out of habit, and a healthy fear of heavy duty face cleansers, I have stuck with my Cetaphyl routine. Last night, I followed the directions here for OCM and could immediately notice a change. My skin is smoother, less blotchy, and not at all flaky. It's 2:00 in the afternoon, and all I can think about is getting home and taking a shower to see how the OCM goes tonight. Methinks I'm a little warped! I am anxious to see the long term results, though, that's for sure :)

I'm using oil as a clenaser too but I adapted this method a bit. ?
At the moment there's no EVOO or castor oil in the house and besides, I wear very little make-up(there's probably not much left on my face at night when I cleanse my skin) so I think jojoba does a good job as well. I made a small batch of jojoba oil+a few drops of lavender and geranium EOs. I apply that on my face and leave it on for some time so that my skin can absorb the EOs. Then I remove it with a cotton pad soaked in warm water (I don't want to end up with more broken veins on my face than I already have :shake: ) and that's it. I usually don't apply any moisturiser afterwards.

So far this has been working great for me!

I really want to try this method as I have struggled with acne and other skin problems since I was about 12 or 13. Everyone seems to have such positive things to say about it. I figure It can't interfere with the medication I'm on for my acne. (Which totally sucks, but seems to be the only thing that's worked for me) Now I just gotta buy the CO, but I haven't seen it on the shelves at Wal-Mart or the other two drug stores in town. Maybe I have to ask for it from the pharmacy? I'm a little embaressed to do that1 (Imagine me, a nurse, embaressed to ask for CO!) Oh well, maybe when there's not such a cute guy working behind the counter.... :rolleyes:

~anniespagani

Thanks ladies you don't know how much you have already helped me, by coming to this board. My skin has and hair has already improved. The only regret is I wish I knew about this sooner.

I have got to try this. There are so many great testimonials. :ornggrin: As soon as possible (re:the car comes home) I'm going to go get some castor oil. I am so sick of breakouts. I feel like a giant oil pore.

Thanks, ladies....I'll be sure to post back on my *success*!

How did I miss this thread? I just wanted to add that I love cleansing with oils and have had great results using sesame and soy oil mixtures as moisturizers. I started using oils when my skin suddenly changed (probably due to hormones) in my late twenties/early thirties when my previously problem-free skin became quite problematic. I started breaking out and had dry patches all at the same time. After trial and error with numerous harsh cleansers, I stumbled on a book by Julia Busch -- The Home Guide to Natural Beauty Care. It's written in a humorous way (ok, can be cheesy) but the recipes and information provided really helped me to understand the benefits of using oil.

I now cleanse with an olive oil/essential oil blend and it completely normalized/balanced my combination skin. But I haven't ever thought about cleansing my body with it...duh!!! I have been soaping up, applying oils afterwards...Man, looks like I need to get a body brush!

Someone asked about the cheaper grades of OO, and I have used them for years with excellent results. The smell is much milder and that was my motivation for using them. I often leave them in my hair, (the length of it) put it in a bun cover, and go about my day while getting a deep oil treatment. But I have been putting my EO in it now and it works super. I can't tell the difference except that the EV is usually somewhat thicker in viscosity. :smile:

Bought some CO yesterday and will be trying this tonight...

Is this the original oil cleansing thread, just moved? I read this and decided to look for the original and can't find it. Wasn't there a thread on this topic in the articles section?

I've been moisturizing with oil blends with excellent results, but I think I want to try the cleansing as well!
It sounds really good. I have athopic skin so it could be great for my body too.

The thing is, I'm not sure how you would use oils for body cleansing? Just rub it on you skin and then shower? Won't the shower get all oily?

Don't you use ANY soap, for like, armpits? :confused:

thaaanks :razz:

My skin is totally hormonal due to fertility drugs and a miscarriage - would this method still be beneficial to me? I am always so greasy!

I can only imagine what you're going through right now with your hormones! My heart goes out to you, Nyght, for the struggle you're going through. *BIG HUGS*

When I became pregnant, my skin turned absolutely horrible. I found that I needed something to help get rid of the bacteria in my pores. If you want to do this the OCM way, try adding a drop of tea tree oil to your mixture (you don't need any more than a little drop). I decided to medicate my skin with some benzoyl peroxide. In fact, I used the method that is described here: http://www.acne.org/. It's the method on the main page and I had amazing success with it. It took about a week for my skin to adjust and fully clear up, but for the remainder of my pregnancy, I had beautiful, clear skin. As much as I love the OCM, I'm a little biased to this method.

I'm sure you already know this, but it's probably a good idea to stay away from salicylic acids right now (AKA BHA's or aspirin derived treatments). At least pass it by your doctor prior.

Whichever route you choose, be extra gentle to your skin right now. Even a wet washcloth can be harsh on irritated skin.

Love and hugs!
Steph
:)

Thanks so much, Steph! When I was pregnant, my skin was awful, too, but after the m/c it became so bad that I wouldn't even go out in public (being depressed AND feeling ugly was a bad combo). That was 4 months ago, and although it's better, the fertility drugs tend to keep the flare-ups going. I am really excited about your response to the bp and that it helped with hormonal breakouts - I think I'll head to the drugstore tonight! :)

Just a little note here to attest to the BP efficacy. I was using Proactive, but found that I don't really need all of the program, I have rosacea and have to use the meds for that more than the acne meds, so I bought a BP gel at Walmart and that works great. I do have only a mild case of acne though it was getting out of hand to begin with. The BP does a super job of controling the blemishes. Of course, I had it under control by the time I went to just using the BP gel, I had used the *rough* stuff already, and didn't let it get back out of control. Maybe that helps? :flowers: You have my prayers that all will go according to your dreams. :inlove:

Thanks so much, Steph! When I was pregnant, my skin was awful, too, but after the m/c it became so bad that I wouldn't even go out in public (being depressed AND feeling ugly was a bad combo). That was 4 months ago, and although it's better, the fertility drugs tend to keep the flare-ups going. I am really excited about your response to the bp and that it helped with hormonal breakouts - I think I'll head to the drugstore tonight! :)
Please read up about it on acne.org! Get 2.5% and don't settle for anything higher (more widely available). Please read up about what to expect before you begin. :) The key is to not overdo it.

:flower:

Thank you, whoever came up with this idea! I began using jojoba oil to clean my face after reading about the oil cleansing method here and it's just the greatest. Jojoba oil is non-comedogenic and it hasn't made me break out. It just cleans and leaves no dryness in its wake. I used to think my Noxzema left my skin soft but that was nothing in comparison. I've been using this method for almost two weeks and my t-zone is clear and happy. :cloud9:

I've tried this twice so far, with mixed results. The first time I used a castor oil/EVOO mix, and for me it didn't work very well. I had a hard time getting the castor oil off my face and in general didn't feel very comfortable with it. However, I tried it again today with straight EVOO and did like the results quite a bit. My skin was very soft and didn't feel dry at all. One thing I did differently than the instructions was to partially fill my sink with hot water and use a towel to tent my face over the steam for a few minutes and before dipping my wash cloth in the water and laying it over my face for a few seconds before wiping off the oil. Needs more trials.

One thing I did differently than the instructions was to partially fill my sink with hot water and use a towel to tent my face over the steam for a few minutes and before dipping my wash cloth in the water and laying it over my face for a few seconds before wiping off the oil. Needs more trials.

This is exactly what I did! I think I can get better steaming - if that's the point. I did the EVOO/CO for the first time tonight and I have no idea what I think - yet. I certainly like the idea though - seems so natural and simple. So I'll do it again tomorrow night.

Did someone say something about refrigerating the oils?

Thanks to everyone for all the info here. I have been washing with oil AND using the BP and I am amazed at how quickly my skin cleared up! My skin is soft with no trace of redness and my hormonal breakout have disappeared. Thank you so much!

Steph and Di, thanks for the sweet words. :smile:

Good!!! That makes me happy! It's difficult enough dealing with the issues currently in your life without having to be reminded of them when you look in the mirror. I'm so glad it's helped. :smile:

Nyght, I am SO glad things are working for you, as Steph said you don't need a reminder every time you look in the mirror, so now you see your own lovely face again and the love and concern of all of us at LHC looking back at you. :flowers: We will be ready for more good news as it comes along too. :cloud9:

I have tried OCM for the first time yesterday on my combination skin. I have modified the procedure, I hope it still gave me the same benefit. I did the oil message (50/50) before the shower and had the hot wash cloth over my face twice. I have removed some of the oil after the 2nd hot cloth and let the remainder sit on while I was washing my hair, etc. Then I used the St.Ives Apricot Scrub in the shower to get all the oil out. After the shower I had put slight amount of the remaining oil and gently rubbed it in until dry. I hope I didn't counter act the desired affects by changing the method. I have very nice clean and smooth look today. My skin feels fantastic.

That sounds like a great way to do it, Rusalka. I've added some baking soda to my face while oil cleansing before with wonderful results. The point of the OCM is to allow your skin to retain its own moisture while deep cleansing and allowing your skin to absorb any extra moisture it may need. The great thing about EVOO is that when your skin absorbs it, it's absorbing the antioxidant properties, as well!

Clear, beautiful skin is the desired effect. If you've got it by using whatever method you decide on, you're doing it right. :wink:

I just tried this cleansing method with my Ginseng Wonder 8 oil, since it has castor oil already in it. And I realized this is the first time I've *ever* cleaned my face and it didn't feel tight or burn like hell afterwards. My skin feels soft and clean and relaxed.

Hi, coming in here late (as always!)! LOL Anyway, I am interested in trying the OCM, and have a few questions! :)

I did make an attempt last night with EVOO and Lavender EO (need to buy Castor Oil), and found that my mascara was not really coming off - and it's not waterproof. My makeup routine is BareMinerals base, eyeliner/shadow, mascara, blush, and Mineral Veil - will OCM alone remove this *plus* cleanse my skin? Or do I need to soap up to remove the makeup, and then OCM (which seems to negate the OCM)?

Thanks in advance!!! :)

Although I haven't tried it yet, I'm really intrigued by this method. I'm in my 40s, and am starting to really wish I'd taken better care of my skin in my younger years. Right now, my main focus is on trying to get my overall skin tone to improve, and to diminish some of the fine lines that are beginning to show (ugh!). I do have some broken capillaries around my nose and on my cheeks, and while they probably aren't all that noticeable to others, I'm still pretty self-conscious about them. Has anyone noticed an improvement in the appearance of broken capillaries using this method? Also - I must admit that I'm a bit hesitant to use really HOT water on my skin. I've "heard" that it's not a good thing to do for skin, but that could be an old wive's tale -- I dunno. Any thoughts about whether the hot water is/is not damaging at all?

Also - I must admit that I'm a bit hesitant to use really HOT water on my skin. I've "heard" that it's not a good thing to do for skin, but that could be an old wive's tale -- I dunno. Any thoughts about whether the hot water is/is not damaging at all?

I haven't found it to be damaging, but I admit that my skin isn't particularly delicate to start with. For me it just feels good. My method is slightly different though, I steam my face with hot water in the sink, rub the oil into my skin again and then use the same steaming water to wipe the oil off. By the time I'm actually cleaning the oil off my face the water is a little cooler and I always wring my wash cloth out thoroughly between wipes which cools the part that actually touches my face a bit more.

My feeling would be to try it--the only irritation I've found was from a rough wash cloth which was pretty easily fixed by using a different one.

I use pretty hot water on my face, too and when I wonder if it's bad for me, I remember that steam is much hotter than water, and even the professionals use steam.

All I know is my skin has never looked better since I've been using this method. 8)

I use comfortable to the skin warm/hot water. I have a very sensitive, fair/rosacea complexion and hot water is not good for it. Just monitor your skin, if it seems happy with hot water, and you are comfortable with it, then that works, but if you feel it irritates your skin or you are not comfy with it then use cooler water. I have no problems removing the oils with cooler water. I have an oily complexion also, so if I were going to have a problem, it would be noticable. It may be that I rinse my cloth more times than others using hotter water, I don't know, I may just be more careful to do that because I have an oily complexion though too.

Each of us is so different that we just sort of have to try different things to see what works for our particular *settings* if that is a good term for it.

HTH a little :flower:

I just want to report that this method is amazing. My face is clearing up so quickly, and my skin is very soft. I have a deep crevice between my bottom lip and chin, and it used to be full of blackheads. Now they are all gone! Wheee! :inlove:

I just tried washing my face with EVOO (I have no castor oil). WOW! This is INCREDIBLE! I am oily, but my skin feels smooth and soft! I wonder how this will do for my problem skin. I am prone to zits and flaking and blackheads/large poors on the same face. I have a glow! I am going to stay on this for a while to see what happens. I need a big jug. I am interested in trying the whole-body wash, but what about the special areas? I don't know if I can go without soap...


Can anyone tell me how the body care goes, what to do? I read about dry brushing, is this done before applying the oil to the skin before the shower? I wanna try!

How do you know that you've got rid of all oil? Just started OCM, feels good. I'm dry-combination sensitive. Got a question. How do you know that you got all the oil off? I use warm wet cotton pad to wipe off the oil. But what always puzzles me is that how clean is clean? I know that not wipe the oil off completely may cause some problem. But, just how much is enough? I try to use wet cotton pads until I don't see any residue on the pad. Sometimes, I can just tell that I wiped too much. Anyone has good tips?

Hmmm ... what negative things could happen from leaving the oil on your skin? I've even been going back after rinsing and wiping with my washcloth and patted MORE oil onto my face. My skin is oily, and even so, it just seems to soak it right up and leave me with a glow.

Before I started the OCM recently after reading the detailed instruction, I had used EVOO once before without much guidance. I guess my face was dirty after a whole day outside. I used the EVOO on my face to clean and didn't do a complete wipe-off. I broke out miserably (I ususally don't breakout much). I read some posting that if you don't get the dirty oil out, it will make things worse. That was exactly what happened to me. This time, I was able to find good instruction in this forum and pretty careful about it and probably overdo it a bit. Things are going well so far. Just I always feel that it's hard to tell when is enough.

I've never tried it with anything but a clean washcloth so I can't really tell you concerning using cotton pads, but all I do is feel my face. If I still feel oil on my face I rinse the washcloth and give it another go. I am very careful also, I fight adult acne and excessive oil. I use benzoyl peroxide and a prescription for rosacea after I cleanse also, so I must be especially careful my face is clean. You should be able to feel if there is still oil on your face, if it feels slick as opposed to feeling soft and moist or damp. If it helps you to differentiate you might pat your face dry with a clean towel or soft cloth and then feel it, to see if it still feels oily or slick.
Also, with oily skin, sometimes it is important not to scrub at it. Irritating oily skin can cause it to go crazy, producing oils trying to get in balance. I have learned that it is important to massage the oil in, GENTLY (which probably isn't an issue if you are using cotton pads) remove it with the cloth, then gently PAT it dry, don't scrub/rub it dry with a towel. You might try using a cold water toning rinse (or even some other gentle toner) once you are comfortable that the oil is all off. That will close up your pores some for you. You could just run an ice cube gently over your face, that really feels good when it is really hot. I have never head that it isn't good for the skin, though someone here may know better, if you do, please, correct me.

OK going to try OCM tonight. Read all the OCM posts at least twice. I have EVOO already and went to Wallyworld and got Castor Oil. I didn't think I was going to find it. The only had one kind. And whoever said it was way down low was right. And a VERY small bottle. So tonight I'm going to give it a try. I think the 75% CO to 25% EVOO sounds good. I need plenty of cleansing. I wonder how gunky it is when it gets in the hairline. I have some scaley rough things on my forehead near the hairline and hope this might help with them. I'm hoping it will help get the crap out of my pores. I have some little cystic looking things near my nose. The bug the heck out of me. I'd try it right this minute but don't want to put makeup on again if I go somewhere this evening. The aspirin mask mixed with honey sounds great too. I sneeze all the time with it and I hope the honey helps.

You know I use it right up to my hair line and have never had a problem with getting it in my hair. I do it twice a day too. I pour it into the palm of my hand, then sort of spread it onto my fingers so that I can massage into my face. My worst spots are my nose, chin and forehead. My forehead gets bad right back to the hairline and into my hair at times. I massage with the pads of my fingers for several minutes. This can be a real stress buster if you do it right, and is great for unwrinkling. I like to sit in my chair out in my sitting room and listen to music or watch the birds in the AM and do this. I do my neck and throat too. I don't have complexion issues there, but I am pushing the big 5-0 and have a minimum of wrinkles, but want to keep it that way. I think keeping the skin supple and from getting dried out is very important. Besides, it is ME time, we all need to take time for ourselves, even if it is just a few minutes massaging lavender scented oil into our skin. I scent mine with lavender obviously :wink: Anyway, I start in the center of my face, where I need the most attention, then meander around to the jawline and up to the forehead and etc and etc. till I feel like it's time to finish up. By doing it that way, the main body of the oil is in the center of my face, not near the hairline where it can get messy. Maybe that will help? :flower: Hope so. Enjoy!!

Di, that sounds like such a great way to start and end the day! I have been flying through my routine, but I think I may have to slow down. Thanks! :smile:

You know I use it right up to my hair line and have never had a problem with getting it in my hair. I do it twice a day too. I pour it into the palm of my hand, then sort of spread it onto my fingers so that I can massage into my face. My worst spots are my nose, chin and forehead. My forehead gets bad right back to the hairline and into my hair at times. I massage with the pads of my fingers for several minutes. This can be a real stress buster if you do it right, and is great for unwrinkling. I like to sit in my chair out in my sitting room and listen to music or watch the birds in the AM and do this. I do my neck and throat too. I don't have complexion issues there, but I am pushing the big 5-0 and have a minimum of wrinkles, but want to keep it that way. I think keeping the skin supple and from getting dried out is very important. Besides, it is ME time, we all need to take time for ourselves, even if it is just a few minutes massaging lavender scented oil into our skin. I scent mine with lavender obviously :wink: Anyway, I start in the center of my face, where I need the most attention, then meander around to the jawline and up to the forehead and etc and etc. till I feel like it's time to finish up. By doing it that way, the main body of the oil is in the center of my face, not near the hairline where it can get messy. Maybe that will help? :flower: Hope so. Enjoy!!

Thank you so much for posting that. I just got done with the first oil cleansing. I started with EVOO to take off eye make up. Then added CO and massaged as you said. I really worked on the blackhead areas on chin and nose. I worked it in right up to the hairline where the little crusty spot is. I went all the way down the neck and beyond. Can't hurt, right? I was very surprised at how non-greasy the whole thing was. After a good facial massage I used a hot wet wash cloth to remove the oil. I did several scrubbings with the wash cloth. After that I made the aspirin mask with honey added. I really liked that! no sneezing and no little white crusties falling off my face. It stayed a little moist the whole time I had it on. At least a half hour. Rinsed and scrubbed it off. Nice exfoliation. Then used a Biore strip on nose and chin. Not a lot came out of the pores but some did. It might have been overkill but I figured what the heck. My face is so nice and smooth! :grin: The hair doesn't feel greasy at the hairline. Yay! It's wash day tomorrow anyways. All I'm going to add before going to bed is my Uncircle for dark circles. I think I'll do it again in the morning. Right now my face doesn't feel too greasy for make up as I thought it might. This could really work!

How long do you massage the oil/s into the face? And how long do you steam the face?

:)

Where did this method come from? If it's from a book or website, I'd love to read what else is there. My skin hasn't been this calm and behaved since before puberty. :silly:

How long do you massage the oil/s into the face? And how long do you steam the face?

:)


Personally, I massage the oil about a minute. Enough to get the blood flowing better to the surface of the skin. I steam over the sink about two minutes, probably.

I started doing this a while ago and my skin has definitely improved. I haven't any red or dry spots on my face and it seems my blackheads are lightening BUT I'm getting little bumps on my forehead, chin and by my nose. They're not black /whiteheads or spots, just bumps..

Any ideas what I'm doing wrong? I take a palmful of oil (CO, almond), massage it on my face, use a hot towel to steam my face and wipe it all off with the towel, rinsing it a few times. At first I was a little too rough with the towel and got a few spots from it but now I'm trying to wipe the oil off gently. Are there any other ways to get all the oil off?

Could changing the almond oil to olive or canola help? I've used almond oil as a moisturizer and it's never caused any trouble, but I'm a little allergic to almonds and massaging with almond oil might be too much for my face.. But almond oil smells better than olive or canola oil :rolleyes:

I've used oil to clean my body too a few times :rockerdud and my legs aren't itching anymore :) Btw: If you have a sauna available, massage yourself with oil and then go in for as long as you feel comfortable. The result? Unbelievably soft and glowing skin :cloud9: Can't wait to have my own someday..

Carolyn -- It sounds like you've got a skin condition similar to what my husband has. How are you finding the OCM method for it? He has to use coal tar soap and, off and on, prescription creams to control it. It would be great if some combination of oils and EOs did hte trick.

I've been using EVOO and CO in a 3:1 ratio and it's working great for me. Can't believe how much I've learned from this group :grin:

Vampberry, you might want to change to another oil (maybe castor/olive oil mix?) because with your slight allergy, it might be causing a problem. Also, are you getting all of the oil off? Maybe steam and rinse a little longer?

Good luck!

Hi all, I'm glad my ramblings have been of some help to you, in answer to how long to massage the oils in, I try to do it for a minimum of a minute as was already mentioned by others. That would be when I was not able to take the time to sit in my chair and watch the birds, clouds, flowers and etc for 20 minutes to 1/2 an hour. A cup of tea or coffee goes well with this little routine too. Now you must realize that I am a homemaker, and though I am a very busy one, as a Pastor's wife, volunteer at the local hospital, caretaker for my Mum (not that she needs much care at this point) and my 17 month old grandson, I have a luxury many of you probably don't have, and that is the time in many mornings to do this. I surely do recommend that if you can work something like it into your day, morning or evening, it is worth it to you though.

Now, to address the smell of EVOO. I usually use Pure Olive Oil instead. It smells much milder and I can't say that I can tell any difference in performance on the body. I also add EO to it. I use a combination of 1/4 CO to 3/4 OO with a few drops Lavender EO for my face. I have a LARGE bottle of OO made up with the EO in it as I also use this for shaving. It is the only thing I can use and not break out in a rash wherever the razor has been. I have a real problem with soaps of all kinds, and really haven't used them for around 20 or more years. Especially shaving creams. They just tear me up.

Perhaps that will help a little with that issue :grin:

Also, after I have cleaned my face, I have some medications I must use, then I use Monoi oil for a moisturizer at night. I have used OO, but prefer the lighter Monoi for my oily complexion. If I use anything during the day it is a sunscreen moisturizer for sensitive skin. The one I have been using has been discontinued or I would recommend it, I really liked it. But that is how things go.

I tried this last night for the first time. I was skeptical to say the least but after the THOUSANDS of dollars I spend in makeup and skin care I figured a buck and a half couldn't break the bank.

I am impressed. My face is really soft and I did get a few of those clogged pores ....unclogged. I did use the warm wash cloth but also added in a facial spa steamer to help open up my pores.

Who knew oild could clean?! 8)

Everyone I have told IRL about this has been too skeptical to try it, even though I am living proof that it works! GRRR!!! I can believe how truly horrible I was to my skin for so many years, completely stripping it of natural oil.

what's IRL stand for? can't find it in the acronym threads..... oh, does it mean "in real life"???

Yep :grin:

Everyone I have told IRL about this has been too skeptical to try it, even though I am living proof that it works! GRRR!!! I can believe how truly horrible I was to my skin for so many years, completely stripping it of natural oil.

I know. :( The way people looked at me when I told them about it, you'd think I'd said I put cow patties on my face or something. :rolleyes: I'm convinced a lot of it is the companies who convince us we have to have harsh, over priced stuff to clean ourselves. Meh.

You know, I had been doing this for a while but I noticed that my face was getting really red. :oops: I started using some of Paula’s Choice products instead, and the red has gone way down so that my face is very nearly the color of my neck again. I tried OCM again, because it was so effective, and again, my face started getting red. Not just from the steaming, but STAYING red all the time!

I’m so bummed, I love OCM but for some reason it makes me look like I have rosacea (sp?).

Has anyone else experienced this?

LisaMM, you might be allergic to one of the oils that you are using. I know that I tried Oil Washing with Burts Bees apricot oil and got a rash from hell that lasted for days. Also make sure your not rubbing your face too hard.

Anixia, you may be right. I remember when I first started this I used the caster oil / EVOO mixture and got a horrible rash. Turned out it was the castor oil. The EVOO worked perfectly EXCEPT FOR making my face turn red (and STAY deep red all the time). I'm not sure where I want to go from here, or if I want ot try OCM again with a different oil.

Anixia, you may be right. I remember when I first started this I used the caster oil / EVOO mixture and got a horrible rash. Turned out it was the castor oil. The EVOO worked perfectly EXCEPT FOR making my face turn red (and STAY deep red all the time). I'm not sure where I want to go from here, or if I want ot try OCM again with a different oil.

What kind of castor oil did you try? If it was from the drugstore, your skin may have reacted to the chemical solvents used in extraction. I get cold-pressed castor oil from the healthfood store that's been extracted without harsh chemicals or heat processing. Of course, it's possible that you may simply be allergic to castor oil.

Oh, I didn't know that there were different kinds of castor oil. I did get it from the drugstore.

I do want to try OCM again, it was so simple and effective. If only it didn't make me look like I had a raging case of rosacea. Which I think I may be showing early symptoms of anyway. :wail:

I am THRILLED to report that even though I am back on injectable fertility drugs, my skin still looks GREAT! Usually I start breaking out about day 2 or 3, and today is day 7 and I don't have a single blemish! I am so incredibly grateful for all of the advice here! I LOVE OCM!!!

Okay, I tried this for a month, and I still have all the blackheads and other disgusting facial blemishes that I had before... and I have oilier skin to boot.

So I'm back to washing with glycerine-based soaps and a washcloth. If I need any moisturizing, I dab a bit of jojoba on my hands and rub that in after washing. It doesn't get rid of the blackheads, but at this point, I don't think anything will.

Jennifer Eve

ive been doing OCM for 3 weeks now with absolutely amazing results! i have been doing it 1-2 a day. i use 50/50 EVOO and castor oil.

the past couple of days, ive been getting pimples. but not my normal ones. i usually get them on my chin or nose. this are little red bumps on my forehead or on my cheeks, near the hairline. ive never gotten these before. im wondering if maybe im not wiping off the oil good enough? i use hot water and lay the rag on my face about 5 times. then i start wiping it all off, exfoliating a little as i go. anyone have any troublshooting solutions? i do NOT want to stop doing OCM.

last nite i added a little bit more castor oil to my mix to see if that would help. we'll see after a couple of days.

Jennifer Eve, I'm so sorry to hear it didn't work out for you!

I was just marveling this morning that my face looks better now than ever before. I've been using OCM for several months now. It must be at least five months...I've experimented with many different oils and right now am happy with my olive/rosehip combo.

I just ordered some hemp seed oil and a facial oil with rosehip and calendula and will report on it after some time using it.

I just tried this for the first time tonight...my skin doesn't usually break out much in full-on zits, but I do have a ton of clogged pores on my chin and sometimes forehead. At the moment the ones on my chin are worse than usual, I can't tell if I used a product my skin just didn't like, or if it is because of the heat and humidity, and working in a restaurant with a hot, oil-laden kitchen. Who knows. Anyway, I used a mix of extra light olive oil and jojoba since that's what I have here. My skin seems pretty happy at the moment...I think I will give it a week to see what happens (unless of course I break out right away from it). Anyway, I am hoping my skin will be less oily even in this Savannah summer, and that the clogged pores will go away for good!

It doesn't get rid of the blackheads, but at this point, I don't think anything will.

Jennifer Eve

Jennifer Eve, have you tried an aspirin mask? Every few days I crush 4-5 aspirin and honey (enough to make a runny paste) and leave in on for 15-30 mins. Then when you wash off you get a really great exfoliating scrub from all the tiny aspirin chunks. Now I been *blessed* :rolleyes: with large pores and blackheads that I can't stop fiddling with. This has helped, my pores feel much less clogged and I notice fewer blackheads on my nose. (Another plus to make pores less noticable under makeup is Estee Lauder Idealist - it makes a kind of seal so makeup seems to sink into pores less)

Oh yeah, the best thing I have ever done for my acne(after 3+ of seeing doctors) was to start using ProActive http://www.proactive.com I avoided it for so long because it was sold on infomercials, but it really works for me.
HTH

Jennifer Eve, have you tried an aspirin mask? Every few days I crush 4-5 aspirin and honey (enough to make a runny paste) and leave in on for 15-30 mins. Then when you wash off you get a really great exfoliating scrub from all the tiny aspirin chunks. Now I been *blessed* :rolleyes: with large pores and blackheads that I can't stop fiddling with. This has helped, my pores feel much less clogged and I notice fewer blackheads on my nose. (Another plus to make pores less noticable under makeup is Estee Lauder Idealist - it makes a kind of seal so makeup seems to sink into pores less)

Oh yeah, the best thing I have ever done for my acne(after 3+ of seeing doctors) was to start using ProActive http://www.proactive.com I avoided it for so long because it was sold on infomercials, but it really works for me.
HTH
This is such a frustrating issue for me. I've been to several doctors over my skin, too. I've dunked a ton of $$$ in treatments. To name just a few meds, I've been on Retin-A (several formulations), Tazorac, Erythromycin cream, and 6-7 heavy full-spectrum systemic antibiotics (one at a time) for 7 years before the most recent doctor refused to continue any due to the well-known concerns with antibiotic overuse. Once off them, I broke out worse, and have been fighting with OTC products ever since. I've pretty much given up and hope that aging will kick in -- seriously. But looking at my dad -- whom I get my skin type from -- it's unlikely. Both of my parents are quite youthful.

My skin is very oily underneath, so oily that by the end of the day, the oil runs into my eyes, causing blurriness and sometimes burning. But on the very top surface, sometimes my skin is tight, which I attribute to damage due to overscrubbing. In a day or two, this damage peels (oooh, attractive!). I don't know how else to get rid of it except to try to scrub more gently, as my skin is the type that chemically doesn't release the bonds between skin cells when they die and slough them off they way they're supposed to disappear, as is the case for most adults (this is how Retin-A works, by breaking down that bond). This traps oils and bacteria under the dead skin cells, creating a fabulous brew for blackhead and pimple formation.

Okay, I will try the asprin mask and get back to you about it. I just hope it doesn't cause my face to get all red, because in my job, I'm the first person everyone meets when they come into the office. This is why I can't do Retin-A anymore, as it causes my skin to flare up and peel terribly. :(

Jennifer Eve

Oh Jennifer Eve, I get that problem, too, with my eyes stinging at the end of some days because my face gets oily.

I also have used the aspirin mask with good results. I use the OCM, but once or twice a week I steam my face over a bowl of herbs (basil, lavender, eucalpytus when I'm under the weather) and the immediately apply a mask. I mix my crushed aspirin with some clay (Fuller's Earth is one of the most absorbant and has some slight bleaching properties) and a bit of warm water. The clay (and I'm guess the honey, mentioned above) keeps the aspirin from flaking off everywhere as it dries.

I'm wondering how often others exfoliate? I've taken to using my oil blend with a salt scrub just about every day, and my skin is loving it.

Jennifer Eve, I have had that problem too, and I’ve gotten it under control so I’m not so red and tight AND oily by using these two products:

Paula's Choice Skin Relief Treatment (http://www.paulaschoice.com/shop/product.asp?CODE=PC320&PAGETYPE=S)

Paula's Choice 2% Beta Hydroxy Acid Lotion (http://www.paulaschoice.com/shop/product.asp?CODE=PC205&PAGETYPE=S)

I use the Skin Relief Treatment after cleansing. I did get the spray pump because this is very watery. After it soaks in, I use the Beta Hydroxy (and I did start with the 1% lotion first).

If I go more than 3 days without using these products, my face gets that red, tight awful look, AND I start breaking out again. My skin never flaked with this stuff, it actually feels less sensitive. When I use these products at least once a day (better twice), I look normal, not like someone took a wire brush to my face.

The products aren’t expensive, and you can return them for the purchase price within 60 days. I saw results within 10 days.

I hope this helps, I really know how it is.

((Jennifer Eve)) I know how you feel. I was on Tazorac and for a while, it kept the pimples away but took several layers of skin as well! People always asked me if I was sunburned.
My skin is also very sensitive to changes in routine. Maybe if you try the aspirin mask but leave it on for only 10 min or less, then scrub off really gently. The aspirin seems to temporarily relieve redness.
I just want you to know I understand how frustrating it can be. :brickwall

I'm wondering how often others exfoliate? I've taken to using my oil blend with a salt scrub just about every day, and my skin is loving it. I have mixed a bit of baking soda in with my oil for the past 2 days, I can't use it on my eyes, but the rest of my face has been just wonderfully smooth.

I think I'm going to do this once or twice a week.

stephanie, could you help me troubleshoot?

i posted a link to this thread on another board i frequent. most of the people there who tried it, like me, liked it a lot (i'm thrilled with it btw! wow!)

except for one lady. she said she gave up on it after i think about a week because her pores were "full of gunk" and she was breaking out with blackheads. i told her i'd ask you about why.

she says uses a 50-50 co-evoo mix. she's using real hot water & sure she's getting all the oil off afterwards. could it be how long she's massaging? or how much oil she's starting with?

i'm not an expert, obviously, but i think she's the first person i've seen complain that her results are really bad & it seems to me there must be a reason *why*, you know?

tia!

Hey Kris,
I read that post over at mothering.com too.
She said she had tried jojoba too with the same results.
I wonder if she were to use more CO and less EVOO, that would help since the CO helps push the junk out of the pores?

Hopefully Stephanie will be along too to help. She is really busy right now.

If Steph doesn't answer soon, maybe you could PM her. I just posted a link (ok, really, just the URL) to this thread over at ww.com last night.

sounds interesting. but. im 16 and i have no pimples as of now, and i use a moisturizing face wash that doesnt claim to be oil free. id say im doing pretty well right now.... i'm not sure if i want to mess with that. i do have blackheads on my nose, but usually i can get rid of them when i get a facial. ive just been lazy and havent gone recently.

id consider the ocm if i saw anyone my age replying to it. oh well. i'll remember it for when im older.

OK, I tried it, and I loved the results. That was two weeks ago and I haven't done it again.

Too hard to manage it with a toddler on my feet -- I can't see him with my eyes full of oil and he chose that few kinutes to get inquisitive.

Oh well, I'm definitely going to remember this for when Jack is older!

Tried this last night with an oil blend I had sitting around - African Secrets Miracle Oil, if I remember the title correctly. Similar to Miracle 8 Oil.
It worked great! My skin is very soft and feels clean and moisturized. I also soaked my hair in the stuff overnight, and it came out silky and smooth. It has more oils in it that I can remember to name, castor oil being one of them.
It smells tasty, too! *nom nom nom*

......

Nooooo! My hair!

has anybody here been diagnosed with seborrheic or other dermatitis and tried hte OCM? good/bad results?

thanks :flowers:

i also have seborrhea and m curious if the OCM can work for us let me know (i am rather tired of using some steroid cream on my face)
thanx
:flower:

I love OCM. I have a slightly different way of doing it, because I apply the castor oil alone and massage it in for about a minute, then I add coconut oil on top of it and massage for another minute. I then rinse with washcloth and steaming tap water and I love the results. No oily residue, just clean, soft, glowing skin.

I too, thought that putting more oil on your face and skin would just be bad! But after reading most of this thread, I am really excited to give this a try!

So far so good with the OCM. I have been doing this for 13 days, and have found that I really only need to clean my skin every one or two days, depending on what I did that day.

All my pores are clear - a first since I hit puberty!

Overall, I am really impressed by this method. Never would have tried it in a million years on my own (clean with oil?! Wait... let me get a phonebook to find you a therapist..)

Thank you to whoever it was that started this post! (I can't remember now...) :flowers: :inlove: :cloud9:

Everything I learn on these boards is great!

I am just learning about this method and am more curious at this point. Not quite up to trying it out.

Need to read all the way through theis thread but I do have one question to start.

what is the difference between "Extra Virgin" and "Pure" olive oil?

TIA
Irishred

Extra Virgin is the first pressing of the olives, pure is one of the later pressings, meaning that it isn't as fragrant or as tasty, or as thick (or as expensive). There may be other properties that vary as well. I have used olive oil for 25 years on my hair, face, arms, legs anywhere I needed moisture and I have always preferred the pure because of the milder fragrance. I add EO (my fave being lavender) to further enhance it.

:flowers:

Could you get a build up from using in place for your normal cleanser everyday? do you think tresses ACV toner would be enough to remove any build up?

I've been using OCM and if there were build up I would break out, guaranteed! And I break out LESS with OCM. So I say use the toner if you want, but I don't think it's necessary (at least not for me) :)

Oh thanks Lisa. i was a bit weary about puting oil on my face since i am prone to breakouts and have spent an lot of money on oil-free moisturizers. but ithought i'd give it a go. i didnt use castor oil. just warmed up some EVOO and massaged it into my face, then steamed my face and wiped it off. i didnt even need moisturizer and my skin looks way too healthy. but i will get some castor oil tommorow and try it properly.

ok i finally think i get it... tonight i tried it with a washcloth that was hot hot hot, and it came off much easier... however, i still think this would be hard to do for your whole body? doesnt it take forever?

Joy, i tried all over salt and oilive oil scrubs. it didnt seem to take any longer than soap, but i've never tried this kind of oil cleansing before. is castor oil absolutaly neccessary? i have been using just oilive oil, or just coconut oil, and both worked really well? I hasve never tried castor oil to compare though?

I'm about to start using this on my face, but I'd also really love to know if it would also be useful on my scalp. I know I'm in the Long Hair Community <grin> but I don't have long hair! I used to, but I never liked the way I looked with long hair. I cut it short after I got divorced, and this spring I started cutting it with clippers - 1/16" all over, and I let it grow to about 1/4" before I cut it again. I'm in the process right now of growing it out a bit due to a custody court appearance I have coming up next spring.

Anyway, I get a lot of breakouts on my scalp. I always have, but of course now that my hair is so short, they're very visible, which I hate!

Oh, yes...I'm still reading through the thread, so it might tell me this somewhere (12 pages!!!), but what about eczema? My son has eczema and I'd love to find something that works well for it!

I think that some with Eczma are trying this as an experiment and from what i can remember, posted with good results. I wouls also love it if this would work on your scalp.

Since I became enormously stressed out and developed hormonal cysts due to work a short while after starting OCM last year, I figured that I'd give it another shot this fall, as i'm not stressed at all. A fair shot, this time!

Man, I had forgotten how *good* it feels! The way the zits just pop out of their little craters like ping pong balls! How nice it is to have a clean, soft face that isn't tight or red. The smooth, warm feeling of the oil being massaged in, followed by the nice, scrubby, warm washcloth.

This time, i'm trying castor oil and Aveda's Beautifying Composition, which is mainly jojoba with a little bit of lavender, bergamot, etc. Here's to hoping the results are as lovely as the first night feels. So promising!

Thanks for reviving this thread! :inlove:

I *wish* that i could've experienced the "zits just popping out of their little craters like ping pong balls..." phenomomen that you have... :(

I *wish* that i could've experienced the "zits just popping out of their little craters like ping pong balls..." phenomomen that you have... :(

Me too. I am 16 and do get spots, not badly by any means, but i do get them. I dont think OCM has helped get rid of them, but my skin is definatly a lot better.

Question: does one do the OCM morning and night, or just night? I feel the need to somehow "wash" my face in the morning, but using a cleanser seems contrary to the rest of the regimen. Maybe a sugar and honey scrub in the morning and OCM at night?

Thanks!

I've been trying OCM out and noting down observations in my journal (http://forums.longhaircommunity.com/showthread.php?t=14666). I decided to copy my thoughts on washcloths over to this thread since it may benefit others:

I think my only real complaints with OCM have been washcloth related. A regular terry cloth washcloth seemed way too harsh. Then I tried a microfiber cloth. It was soft to the touch and seemed like a good idea at first, but once it got wet it was way too grabby on my skin. Almost felt like my skin was going to get pulled off with the washcloth. But, I think I finally have found a winner: floursack cloths.

They're somewhere in between cheap 200-count sheets and cheesecloth, and 100% cotton. They are coarse enough in texture to exfoliate and scrub because of the threadcount, but smooth enough to slide over my skin and not be aggravating. I also like how thin the cloth is, I never feel confident that the deep loopy pile of terrycloth gets really clean from all the oil trapped. After a few machine washes you can still smell oil in the terrycloth washcloth and I frankly don't feel like handwashing them (which I know would really clean them up). The floursack towels I got seem to be designed to be kitchen hand towels, and are fairly large (2' X 2'). I was going to cut them down into smaller pieces, until I realized that I could hold the ends and scrub my back with it. Yay.

So, last night I OCM'd my face using these cloths... the fabric just clings to my hands almost like a glove when wet, making it easy to rub the oil off of my face, especially providing dexterity in areas around my face where I want to be very careful, like around my nose piercing and near the hairline if I don't want to get my hair wet. They work very nicely.

Other than this, I also am still waiting for the really cool gross-out moments of a big pimpleseed suddenly slipping out of a pore. And no magic eradication of acne yet, either. But, my skin isn't any worse (it is slightly improved) and I really like the concept of not drying my skin out only to replace it with artificial moisture.

I am a night-showerer so I OCM once a day (or every other) in the shower. In the morning, if I feel my face is a little oily (usually only happens after hairwash night when I've slept with wet hair) I just splash a little water on my face and pat dry and this picks up the excess without drying my skin up.

Since full body OCM takes waaaay to much time for me, I've been using coconut milk from the neck down. It's oily enough to clean and moisturize, but light enough that I don't have to spend all 20 minutes scrubbing away excess oil. And, no need to use lotion after showering.

I never feel confident that the deep loopy pile of terrycloth gets really clean from all the oil trapped. After a few machine washes you can still smell oil in the terrycloth washcloth and I frankly don't feel like handwashing them (which I know would really clean them up).

As a massage therapist who deals with washing oil out of linens every day, I can tell you that it is not a simple matter of handwashing! Oil tends to stay trapped in ANY fabric, not just loopy terry cloth. And if you wash your "oiled" linens along with other towels or clothing, they will ALL start to smell like oil, so keep them separate!

Adding jojoba oil to your oil mixture will help it wash out easier. Also, adding ½ teaspoon of any citrus essential oil (I've used lemon and orange) to the load will help remove the oil residue and smell. Massage supply catalogs sell a detergent called "Oil Be Gone" which works amazingly well for this. You can order it from Best of Nature (http://www.bestofnature.com/store/merchant.mv?Screen=PROD&Store_Code=BON&Product_Code=OIL_GONE&Category_Code=A4) (as well as many other catalogs).

I did it for the first time today! So far, my skin feels great. I confess, I'm a little concerned about finding myself halfway through the workday with an oil slick on my face.

If you're in the UK, Ecover do a citrus heavy-duty cleaning producty thing, and I've added it to washes before. Sounds like that'd do the trick nicely. Not that I'd dug out some flannels to try this method yet. Do you have to wash the cloth every time you use it?

A cheap way to get oil out of fabric is Dawn dishsoap.
Remember their commercials, "Dawn takes grease out of your way."?

I was just talking to a friend tonight about this--she wanted to use baby oil!! I quickly steered her in the right direction and just sent her an email with Stephanie's article in it. I hope she likes it! :)

As a massage therapist who deals with washing oil out of linens every day, I can tell you that it is not a simple matter of handwashing! Oil tends to stay trapped in ANY fabric, not just loopy terry cloth. And if you wash your "oiled" linens along with other towels or clothing, they will ALL start to smell like oil, so keep them separate!
Thanks so much for the link on this. My mom was a massage therapist for a while and I still vividly recall that smell permeating everything.

Do you have to wash the cloth every time you use it?
I just bought a 4-pack of these floursack washcloths and switch cloths every other day. Seems reasonable enough to reuse it once, after that... :rolleyes:

I just decided to start OCMing again, since when I tried it awhile ago, I only did it for about 2 days. I want to give it a fair shot this time.

Are there any longtime OCMers who are still having good results? Short-term? Anyone? :smile: I made my oil mixture of 1/2 Castor Oil, 1/2 EVOO, with a drop of lavendar and a drop of tea tree oil for good measure. I mixed up about 4 ounces for my trial period. This time I'm using baby washcloths, since I felt like my terry cloth washcloth was very irritating to my skin last time.

How is it going for everyone? I would love some feedback :smile:

I've seen this thread a bunch of times the last month and a half or so, and have been considering trying it more and more as time goes by. I have quite oily skin and fairly severe acne, and my skin gets oilier the more it's 'washed' and then more acne, and...arg. Seeing several people say how it's helped their acne prone skin has made me wonder if this might help some. Can't hurt to try, I figure.

So I've been reading, and I'm now wondering what would be better or 'gentler' to start with? EVOO (or maybe just OO), or maybe a 50/50 EVOO/CO mix? Just the EVOO would be simpler (wouldn't have to buy/mix two things) but I'm wondering if the EVOO on its own has the same/similar purging/cleaning effects of the CO? My skin has a tendency to dry out/flake if it's cleansed too much, which is one reason I'm considering this--might help keep my skin more balanced. It's also why I'm not sure which would be better, as from what I've read it sounds like the EVOO would be more moisturising? Especially noting the 3:1 and 1:3 ratios suggested for dry and oily skin.

I figure I'll add a bit of Tea Tree Oil for when I do this on my face, for whichever option, and then try just the EVOO or EVOO/CO on my back/shoulders/etc (or...something). I'm pretty much down to not 'washing' my face too often...more just rinsing it with water and doing things like honey masks, which seem a bit better than the acne specific products (if anything, these aggravate it). Any suggestions would be welcome. :flower:

Have tried lots of oils in the past few months. So far it seems my skin likes coconut oil the best. It's a very specific kind, so I don't know if just any coconut oil would work. But I'll test that theory soon. My skin type right now is ultra-sensitive with dryness mostly in the t-zone. If I use the wrong products (which is almost everything), I break out. :rolleyes: My second fav is jojoba oil.

Wow!I have to try this!I have tons of blackheads and acne.I'm going to try it with EVOO,which is what I have right now.I also get oily after washes.Plus,my skin is more sensitive,and it can dry or make my skin itch a little.I can't wait to try!

Just checking in to report... I've been doing OCM in one form or another for the last two months. For sure I can say it has not made my skin worse, and it has mildly improved in the last few weeks. I do it once daily in the shower.

I've been using combinations of castor oil, apricot kernel oil, jojoba oil, and some drops of tea tree oil. I find the castor oil very hard to get off, to the point where I worry that I'm scrubbing so hard it's irritating my skin worse. So I only put in maybe 15-20% castor oil in the blend. Sometimes I also use the Burt's Bees Orange Essence Facial Cleanser, which is a thick oily face cleanser that is designed to be used to loosen dirt/makeup. I also found it helped to use smoother washrags which I posted above earlier in this thread.

So, no specific skin miracles so far, but it is better and I like not having the dry tight face feeling and having to apply moisturizer. I still get the monthly period zit, and various blackheads and other pustules especially on my jawline near the ears. But overall, non-menstrual acne is reduced and the texture of my skin looks smoother and more radiant.

I use jojoba oil and aloe vera to wash my face :
mix some jojoba oil and some aloe in the palm of your hands and wash your face with it, its still going to be a little bit oily after, but the dry cloth will remove the excess oil, this is my favorite !

I just read the original article about washing with olive oil and castor oil, I do have castor oil and will try that next time

Dianlya, I do the same thing, I found the castor oil really hard to get off, mine is a mix of 10-15% castor, the rest sweet almond, and a couple drops of tea tree :)

so far i only use this for my face, but eventually i think i might give up soap for good

This is my fourth week doing OCM. My initial mixture was shea butter and a little EVOO. After several days of use, my face was sooooo dry. Not cracking dry, but close. I then switched over to castor oil and EVOO. The dryness continued for another week. My face needed time to adjust -- now it's soft and the dryness has subsided. Hopefully, OCM will protect my skin during the cold, winter months.

I only do OCM at night, followed by Paula's Choice beta hydroxy lotion. In the morning, I use the beta hydroxy lotion again. That's pretty much my routine.

Well, I might have kind of answered my own question, as I tried it, just the OO (pure, not extra virgin). And I forgot to put a drop of tea tree oil in it...grr....

I'm not too sure yet about it (one section feels a bit too dry, and I'm not entirely sure I got it all off), but I think I am definitely going to try this for a bit as it did seem to get rid of some of the dirt. I'm thinking of maybe getting CO, (as long as I don't have to ask for the stuff) and try using a combo of it and the EVOOorOO, or maybe try another oil (haven't decided yet) to use with the CO--if I can find some, anyway.

Also need to definitely remember to use less oil as I overestimated on this and ended up with more oil on my hands than my face. :oops:

And I'll post an update with how I like it/if I think I might switch to this in a couple weeks or so. :grin:

just did my first OCM (actually did it thisafternoon around 4pm central)

it felt SOOO good. massaged EVOO and lily+lavender EOs for about 2 minutes, and then steamed my face for about 5 over a hot sink. then wiped off with a hot wet washrag. and dabbed with a cold washrag

and was red as a BEET for approximately 20 minutes (but it went away) but my face felt great and looked great - it brought up all the stewing pimples so i could puncture them with a needle and help them on their merry way (evil little buggers), and got rid of my headache too (:

now, at about 9.30 my face is kinda oily - but that's normal for my face (i have very oily skin) so we'll see what happens. i may do another one tonight just ecause it felt so good and was so relaxing on my face!

I've now been doing the OCM regularly since mid October. I use just EVOO by itself because it works so well for me that I haven't felt like buying castor oil to mix with it. I can't believe how well it cleans my face and without drying it. I always took it for granted that I'd have dry cheeks every fall but I don't have them this year.

I alternated using EVOO with Neutrogena Deep Clean Cream Cleanser during the dreaded hormonal outbreak week because Deep Clean has salicylic acid and it made me feel more confident. To be fully honest, my dreaded hormonal outbreak generally consists of 1-3 tiny zits that no one else really notices but they bother me so....anyway....it seemed to work! I noticed my cheeks looked dry (but didn't feel dry) when I used Deep Clean and they definitely did not look dry when I used EVOO.

I've been using a drop of jojobo oil or EVOO to moisturize my cheeks and under my eyes at night. That's going very well too. I haven't had any breakouts from the oil. I would use it every morning too but I need sunscreen.

i just thought i would post an update... i've been doing this all over my skin for a couple months now. on my face i use a mix of about 1/4 castor oil, 3/4 sweet almond(cause its so thin) and a couple drops tea tree and peppermint oils. my face hasnt touched soap this whole time and its been great! its also fabuolous for taking off hoards of makeup!

on my bod, i use baby oil in place of shower gel... i've tried it with the other stuff, but i just seem to like baby oil better... i know a lot of people think its not good, but it seems to lock in moisture, which is what i really need, especially in the winter. my legs are so itchy that i've scraped them up, and they are hard to leave alone! but this way has definitely made a difference :)
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v513/joyinc/smilies/signs/0570ed2f.png

I'll update too. After two months of doing the OCM with EVOO, my skin seems like it just gets better and better. The last time I was expecting a hormonal breakout, nothing happened. I got "my little friend" quite unexpectedly and without any sort of warning on my face. It seems like my skin looks just a little younger, although I could be imagining that.

I noticed Shu Uemura is selling facial cleansing oils for $60! For freaking mineral oil! The bottle artwork is quite lovely but....geesh. Here are their instructions (http://www.shuuemura.com/content/Article.aspx?cc=4&c=16):

"To maximize the benefits of the cleansing oils, follow the shu uemura Japanese cleansing technique:
1. With dry hands, dispense an ample amount (4-6 pumps) of cleansing oil onto palms.
2. Apply cleansing oil all over the face and neck.
3. Emulsify by adding cold or lukewarm water.
4. Massage thoroughly onto skin, breathing in the natural fragrances.
5. Rinse thoroughly with cold or lukewarm water."

$60! for mineral oil! thats insane!

its funny how oils when marketed differently can be more appealing... neutrogena makes a rainbath moisturizer, that is essentially seasme oil... although i doubt it's $60

l've had pimples since puberty, though never bad enough to really qualify as acne, though at about thirteen or fourteen a doctor did prescribe tetracyclen (sp?). Didn't do much but make my skin red and peel. Earlier this year I discovered the wonders of benzoyl peroxide. Yay for BP! For about six months I had clear skin, with the occasional requisite pimple, using Clean and Clear Continuous Cleanser and their benzoyl peroxide (10%) once a day. It did get a little drying, and in late October began to be less effective. When I discovered this forum I tried OCM for about a month, with great results, except for the creeping return of my wonderful zats, as they are called in my family. Shucks. But it did make the rest of my face feel great, and not tight and itchy.

-Rachel :karma:

can i use sesame oil?

I'll update, too. Apparently the painful cystic acne I got last year wasn't the result of horrible stress from an unfair supervisor... it was the results of OCM. I know this because after recovering from the painful, red, inflamed cystic acne all over my cheeks and chin from January to September, I made the stupid mistake of trying OCM again. After a month of lush skin, the true effects came into play and I again found myself crying at night with painful deep red cysts and whiteheads.

I can safely say the OCM is the WORST thing i've EVER done for my skin. My self esteem is just wrecked-- and makeup can't cover the mountains and craters. Sitting in executive meetings in my nicest clothes trying to cover my nasty red cheeks with my hair is depressing and painful. Differin and benzoyl peroxide made my skin red and flaking and oozy, so I've dropped back to nothing but Cetaphil, Differin and aspirin masks. I can only pray it takes less than 8 months to go back to normal. I feel horrid. That's about it.

i'm soo sorry this has happened to you!! it proves nothing is right for eveybody. and everyone is different.
i tried this today with alot of aprehension(SP?). i used cotton balls to swipe the eoo on my face and then dipped a washcloth in warm water and put it on my face a few times. when i was done and wiping the excess oil off my face i noticed a big pink pimple on my nose. it was probably there already and the heat brought it out not the oil but i still don't know if this is the right method for me.

I finally reached the end of my vanity rope and went to the dermatologist last week. When I sheepishly explained that I had been cleansing with castor oil and jojoba oil, she gave me a very strange look and said, "Didn't anyone tell you that castor oil CLOGS PORES??"

In any case, after a glycolic peel, antibiotics and a week of Retin-A micro, my face is clearing up, although it's still red. I've only got 4 active cysts, which is a miracle after the acne i've experienced in the past 3 months.

I'm not here to trash the OCM, because I know it works for many people... but if anyone is having the same experience I am, get thee to the dermatologist. There is no magic bullet product at the drug store or department store that is going to get your skin happy again. I was not aware that so many dermatological practices were included in insurance-- glycolic peels, microdermabrasion, steroid shots for active cysts. Now that I am aware, I can't believe I waited so long to see a professional about such a painful matter. As for OCM: it obviously works for some; it even more obviously didn't work for me.

((((((((((Magpiedee))))))))))

We think you're beautiful either way, but I am glad you have found a solution to your painful problem. Here's to fresher skin for you in 2005 :flower:

The OCM, 1 year later

Browzing this forum, I just realised that I've been using the OCM for just over a year now- thank you Steph! Here's a quick recap of the past year.

The good

-I've spent the equivalent of about $7 on skincare this year. That was enough to buy me a 500 ml bottle of grapeseed oil, and I'm nowhere near finished with it yet.
-I no longer feel a need to use moisturisers or toners of any sort. I used to clease, tone and moisturise twice a day, life is much simpler now.
-I've always had wrinkles on my neck, and feel that those have visibly been reduced due to OCM.
-Overall, my skin is much softer and no longer prone to flakiness.

The bad

- Using a washcloth to exfoliate was too rough and would inflame any breakouts that I was blessed with at the time. My routine now consists of massaging oil into my face and neck with my hands, preferably in the shower to simulate the steaming effect, to avoid breaking the surface of my skin. I also prefer to use the grapeseed oil alone, but I'm not picky, most oils will do.

And the downright ugly

-Most of my facial towels now look pretty horrible and are caked with oil and smudged mascara. Incidentally, has anyone come up with a solution to this?

Rosie, I've got a quick question for you. What do you do if you are traveling or camping or are somewhere that doesn't have the hot water necessary to remove the oil? Yes, I do dream up unlikely hypothetical situations, but I actually was traveling last weekend and ran into water that wasn't quite hot enough. So, I'm wondering what to do if I run into water that simply isn't hot at all? Please give me a good hypothetical solution to my not-so-hypothetical problem! :D

If you have nothing else you could use to heat water with, I suppose you could throw a wet washcloth in a baggie, and throw the baggie in an MRE heater (I use these to heat MRE's to eat while on hiking trips). (The MRE heater is a bag containing an iron-magnesium-salt matrix packet -- you add a few spoonfuls of water, and it heats up). Bought in bulk, the heaters are about $.60/ea or $9+shipping/dozen. Otherwise, you could heat water over a campfire or camp stove.

I finally reached the end of my vanity rope and went to the dermatologist last week. When I sheepishly explained that I had been cleansing with castor oil and jojoba oil, she gave me a very strange look and said, "Didn't anyone tell you that castor oil CLOGS PORES??"
I have a question about this, directed towards anyone who can answer it

This actually makes sense to me. This would explain why the oil cleans so well. The oil gets into the pores instead of the dirty stuff and if you don't do anything about it, it can stay there. And if you're prone to acne or have a walk-on-eggshells skin condition anyway it may irritate it enough to cause more acne or (god forbid) a horrible experience like magpiedee's :scared: All of this is just me jumping from stone to stone in my mind so please, take it at that, lol :lol:

Anyway, what I was wondering is, do you think cleansing every so often with say, a brown sugar/oil or baking soda/oil mixture would help this and make sure there is nothing left in your pores? Or an ACV rinse or something? Would that conteract the effect that cleansing with oil is supposed to have? I know that once you have a problem like she described, this probably wouldn't solve it, but would it maybe help prevent it for people who are worried about it?

Anyway, just curious. TIA :flower:

I just started this yesterday and I think I am going to like it, at least so far I do.

Meg

I am completely new here and am pretty much just interested in the skin forum so far. I found this site through a link to OCM and decided to try it. I am 27 and have had acne since I was 13. I have tried everything and nothing has really helped except for avoiding refined sugars and carbohydrates. Even then, I still get some breakouts though they are much better.

So. I have been trying OCM for about 2 weeks now. For the first few days I had a few breakouts which may have been because my skin was adjusting....maybe not. But for the past several days I haven't had any new breakouts. This morning I woke up with some a few tiny tiny whiteheads and one red spot that I think is going to get bigger. Hopefully over time, these will stop showing up. I kind of wonder if this is really going to help with hormonal acne. I guess we will see!

One thing is that I still wake up with flaky skin (I OCM in the evening). I massage the oil in (2/3 EVOO and 1/3 CO) for 1-2 minutes and then steam my face for a few minutes. I find that trying to wipe it off just leaves flaked skin right after doing OCM. So, I am just steaming now without the wiping. But I still woke up with flaky skin all over my face. What's up with that?

Overall, I am enjoying OCM and will continue to do it. I haven't tried asprin masks yet. Do I have to do an asprin mask with the OCM? Do I just put it on the breakouts?

Thanks for everything!
Shawna

What a brilliant, natural, cost effective idea!

I just wanted to write and comment that I did the OCM for a while and got such dry, flaking skin that it was unbearable. I've never seen my skin flake that badly before, and it didn't help whether I applied EVOO or regular moisturisers afterward. I also developed a spot of excema that I'm still struggling to get rid of half a year later. My skin is still out of balance.

The OCM did not work for me (sensitive combination skin), and I'm thinking maybe it's better for those with oily to normal skin?

Well, I tried OCM today. 50/50 EVOO/CO and two drops of EO 'rose'. I will try it the following days and weeks, but so far I absolutely LOVE :cloud9: it!

I will be experimenting with different oils, though. I do have sesame oil and some other oils, can't wait to try them all:silly:

I live in the Midwest and my dry skin loves the OCM <3
Does anyone know if it's cheaper to buy EVOO at a natural foods store rather than a grocery store? The cheapest I've seen it is $5 for a fairly large glass bottle at Safeway (grocery store), but I'm always looking for a bargain.

I am wondering about the washclothes. What works best? Can you buy the baby washclothes and would that work well?
I don't have a health food store close by. The closest is about 45 mins to over an hour away. My skin seems to be oily but I also go through periods of dryness. I am assuming the castor and olive oil mixture would be good for me to try at first?

Well, I'm a slacker... I have seen this thread for ages, I mean I lurked for a long time before I joined and I have watched this thread.

I have been intrigued by the idea, but afraid of putting oil on my face (marketing brainwashing :rolleyes: ) Anyway, so after dealing with a flaky dandruff looking face for a week that I'm assuming is caused by these pregnancy hormones, I tried it.

I didn't use EVOO/Castor mix, special thanks to whoever it was that posted NOT to use Castor oil during pregnancy! So, I used what I had on hand. I mixed up a mixture of 1/3 coconut oil and 2/3 grapeseed oil with a couple drops of lavender eo. I am out of tea tree oil, used the last of it on the kiddos cloth diapers. So, I will try adding a bit of it next time.

My skin can be irritated very easy so I decided not to use a rough washcloth, so after searching the linen closet, I found some old flannel baby receiving blankets and cut one in quarters. This worked great, but I found I had to fold the flannel square in half so that it would hold any heat.

Immediately after I did the wash, I was in love! My face looked better already. However, this morning... I am glowing! Most of my flakes are gone with no exfoliation! Also, I have quite a few scars across my face from an accident I was in 10 years ago. They were caused by the airbag essentially "burning" my face. They are ALWAYS red and I will NOT go anywhere without makeup. Guess what, every bit of redness was gone! :rockerdud Now I'm not saying it took away the scars but they are not noticable without the redness unless you are INSPECTING my skin.

I am sooo happy and thank you all so much for posting this! I will try to post an update after using this for a week or two!

:flowers:

I'm bumping this (enormous!) thread because I just started OCM last night. I'm using 100% EVOO, no castor (at least right now). What was so amazing is that my face was soft and dewy, and the few whiteheads I had on my forehead just vanished. :D Will keep going with this. Thanks for helping me learn about it!

I cant find castor oil!

-Most of my facial towels now look pretty horrible and are caked with oil and smudged mascara. Incidentally, has anyone come up with a solution to this?
Earlier on this thread maka (post #181) recommended this detergent for getting oils out of laundry, from bestofnature.com: Oil Be Gone (http://www.bestofnature.com/store/merchant.mv?Screen=PROD&Store_Code=BON&Product_Code=OIL_GONE&Category_Code=A4).

For people who are having trouble with regular washcloths being rough or requiring too much scrubbing, I've found the Wondercloth (http://www.wondercloth.com/content/default.asp) from wondercloth.com is absolutely amazing -- for water-only washing as well. It will take off every speck of makeup without pulling and tugging, and the makeup then rinses right out of the cloth under running water. The texture is soft, not harsh at all. I haven't tried flour sack cloths, so I don't know how those would compare.

I've never used castor oil and based on various posts here I doubt that I will, but I have used a variety of other oils and never had problems. I will not use hot or steamy water on my face though -- I have enough broken capillaries already from doing this in my teens. I use lukewarm to warm water and it works quite well.

This method sounds fantastic. I can't wait to try it. It sounds similar to the Eve Lom method, which costs a fortune in department stores.

I wanted to chime in with alternatives for oils. I've been using grapeseed oil with a drop or two of jojoba. (Grapeseed can be slightly astringent.) I used an old flannel receiving blanket of dd's that I cut up to use for washcloths. Then I shower, and after the shower massage a drop or two of jojoba oil onto my face for a little extra moisture.

This is what works for me. Might give others some ideas. I've been doing OCM for awhile. I really like it.

ETA: In the shower, I've been doing WO for body and hair. Working well for me...

I'd be interested to know whether castor oil makes that much difference. Does using other oils do the exact same thing?

I'd be interested to know whether castor oil makes that much difference. Does using other oils do the exact same thing?

Mango: No, you don't have to use castor oil. For instance, a pregnant woman should not use castor oil.

The castor oil is for the cleansing, the olive oil is for moisture. The original article recommended that you start with 50/50 mix and then adjust to your personal preference.
However there are many other oils you could use, as you can see by what others have posted.

I found the castor oil hard to wash off, and the olive oil a little heavy. I looked into other oils. I use grapeseed with a touch of jojoba.

Here are 2 websites where you can find information on oils and decide what you might like to use. I haven't personally purchased from them, but they will give information about types of oils. Also a search for essential oils will turn up lots of websites. Check out a carrier oil first and then see if you want to add any essential oils.

Essential Oils for Natural Aromatherapy (http://www.natural-essential-oils.com/index.html)

AromaWeb (http://www.aromaweb.com/default.asp)

Hope that helps.

Thanks loon! Very useful.:flower:

[B]The OCM, 1 year later[/

-Most of my facial towels now look pretty horrible and are caked with oil and smudged mascara. Incidentally, has anyone come up with a solution to this?

I use Bounty paper towels...works wonderfully, much less abrasive than cloth!
HTH

I make a product like this that is very effective.

If you're making it at home and using castor, please be sure you're getting cosmetic grade castor oil. That may have been magpiedee's problem - not the right castor oil. I'm not a doctor, but my research indicates that castor is non-clogging. http://www.zerozits.com/Articles/article6.htm#inglist

Also, shea butter was mentioned -- many folks find shea irritating on their face, as well as drying, so be sure and do a test patch first.

I have dry skin and this has worked wonderfully for me!
I use EVOO with a few drops of rosemary and lavendar essential oils added. I've been doing this for a few weeks and all I can say is wow! No more dry, tight skin and the whiteheads I had despaired of getting rid of are mostly gone.
DH gave me a few weird looks when I mentioned what I was doing, but he loves the smell of my oil mix.
Thanks for another brilliant idea.

I'm curious if this method would work with people that have acne?

I'm curious if this method would work with people that have acne?

From what I have read and experienced, I think it would. Some people have noticed that their skin improves with the OCM, and others find that it doesn't make their acne better, but it doesn't make it worse either.

I would be very gentle, use a clean non-abrasive cloth every time. I have a few skin problems, and using the OCM hasn't made it worse.

Welcome, by the way! I hope you enjoy your stay here!

I'd like to point out that MAC and DHC cosmetics/skin care companies both sell (very expensive) oils for cleansing. DHC's is mostly olive oil with some detergent in it so that it binds to water more easily for rincing. I have used it for a while now. It does remove make up well. I use water only unless I'm wearing makeup (which I rarely do) so I can't tell you how well it works on a daily basis.

I will begin the method today with 25% CO and 75% grapeseed oil adding a couple of drops of lavender essential oil and maybe tea tree. I have oily, sensitive skin and at age 40 have developed for the first time in my life blackheads all over my nose as well as in the creases of my nose next to the alas.

WADR, I cannot help but, wonder if the ladies who the method did not work for had not only the correct oils for their skin as well as the cosmetic grade of those oils and the correct proportions. It would seem to me that since everyone's skin is so different each complexion would have different needs and the secret lies in determining the needs of each individual and matching the correct proportions of the specific types of oils before giving up the method completely. Perhaps consultation with a knowledgeable esthetician (and patch testing until the correct proportions are determined) would be of some benefit? Just a thought...

I mixed up a batch of 50/50 Castor Oil and Olive Oil along with a few drops of geranium essential oil and have been using it the past two nights. I am really impressed with this. My skin is much calmer already, and I love the smooth feeling. I don't need to use a separate moisturizer after cleasing at night, which I love. I can't wait to see what the results are over time.

I do it different. I rub OO all over my face and then wipe it off with a hot face cloth.

Once I broke my foo and it was in a cast 3 months because when they took the cast off and x-rayed me it was still broken.

My skin was so dry it looked like lizard's skin and was actually bleeding. Doc told me to put Crisco (shortening) on it. I use less and less preparations all the time.

OMG OMG ... i finally tried it with pure jojoba. i've always wondered if just hot water could really remove all that oil ...
ok, i used to be totally into a very expensive cleansing oil by Shu Uemura. i stopped using it cuze i was a bit disgusted when i discovered i was paying my ass off for something that contained mainly mineral oil, no matter how much it was praised in Vogue. i was also afraid it might worsen my mild acne (that never totally cleared up, even at 26). i don't think it did though, it's a nice product (it's an oil that emulsifies with water, leaves no residue), just i wonder why they never made a version with vegetal oil only.
oh well, i can finally return to using oils and no more detergents!!! (i've been using mild cleansers for dry skin since last year).

howdy! i've been lurking mainly regarding long hair care as my hair is waist length and i'm just now figuring out i should be giving it special care...better late than never?!

anyway, i found this thread and i'm really excited. i've been playing around with the jojoba alone for the last couple of days, got a small bottle of CO from the health food store today, and am ready set to give this a more formal try. not sure after reading each and every post in this thread that the CO is necessary for my skin as the jojoba seems to be just fine. but i do want to try the CO and EVOO combo at least a few times.

thank you all for taking the time to post your experiences!

peace, movie zombie

I used the OCM religiously for about a year, and my skin loved it. However, since I use quite a bit of makeup, I also managed to destroy about 6 face towels in the process. In the end I just decided that it wasn't worth it and switched back to normal cleanser. Any ideas of how to get greasy, smudged mascara off towels? I'm at a loss, it's too bad...

Meri-Two things come to mind. One, how about using a tissue and oil to remove eye make-up before doing the full OCM? And two, I guess if you have cloths that are just for OCM, and they are clean but stained, you could just keep using them.

Or maybe you could use the OCM in the morning, before you have make-up, and use an alternate method to clean the make-up off at night.

These don't directly address your question, I know. But I hope it helps!

PS I love your snowy sig picture! Beautiful hair too.

I used the OCM religiously for about a year, and my skin loved it. However, since I use quite a bit of makeup, I also managed to destroy about 6 face towels in the process. In the end I just decided that it wasn't worth it and switched back to normal cleanser. Any ideas of how to get greasy, smudged mascara off towels? I'm at a loss, it's too bad...
I keep a laundry basket in the bathroom just for OCM washcloths and towels. They get washed in the washing machine with ordinary detergent, and white vinegar in the rinse. I find that works fine for removing the oil and makeup.

I have a fairly large supply of washcloths and handtowels - I stocked up when BJ's had packs of a dozen for $5. Makes it easier to not reuse towels until they're really gross.

I just started this with some leftover coconut oil I had laying around and so far so good! I have oily skin, and I always felt that washing my face made my skin look worse, dry and flaky. With this my face feels clean without feeling parched.

I started doing OCM with jojoba oil about two weeks ago. I had a bunch of cotton balls from a home project and I find that I can use one and unwind it as I go to remove eye makeup. I'm not sure what I'll use when these run out. I used to skip washing my face at night sometimes but I like this method of cleansing so much that I actually look forward to it.
BFG

I started OCM about a month ago and used it for about 2 weeks and loved the results, I even made it through my period with no breakouts which is a first for me... but it is a little more involved than just using cleanser in the shower so I got away from it for a couple weeks and I'm all broken out again. I was using the Chagrin Valley Cucumber Lime Yogurt soap, and while I love the shampoo bars for my hair and the Sunflower citrus soap on my body, it's just not for my face.

So back to OCM and I am going to make time to do it. I use a 50/50 of CO and EVOO. If I feel I need a scrub, I just add a little bit of white or brown sugar to it, and even a drop of Dr Bronner's soap and Tea Tree Oil and it works better than any of the other scrubs I've tried over the counter, and I've tried just about everything. I think, since I'm almost out of CO, I'm going to pick up some grapeseed oil to add to the mix.

Hello!

I've just started using this method and I am not yet sure how it'll work but I'll try and stick with it for a week or two.

I use 50/50 Almond oil/CO, massage for about 2 minutes then use a hot washcloth to steam my face and then rinse it off, repeating this last step several times. My face feels a little oily (or maybe just smooth???) right afterwards, so I will try and get more oil out next time.

-Charlotte

Would Neutrogena sesame body oil be appropriate to use with this method?

Would Neutrogena sesame body oil be appropriate to use with this method?
Neutrogena Sesame Body Oil isn't really an oil - it is a mix of who knows what (look at the ingredients.)

You want a pure vegitable oil for this - castor oil from the laxatives section of the pharmacy, and extra virgin olive oil from the grocery are a good place to start.

When I do this I can feel little hard plugs come out!! what are those things? Will this happen everytime?

I tried it yesterday with EVOO with one drop of tea tree oil. My skin feels great. I didn't have the explosion of oil I usually see about 3 hours after I wash my face, and the redness on my cheeks from my old healing acne is much reduced. For some strange reason, my Walmart was sold out of castor oil, so I have not tried that yet.

Hmm, I''ve tried it a few times, but I'm not quite sure if I like it yet...

My cheeks've been breaking out for a while now, and it seemed to get worse while using jojobaoil and the OCM. Now, that could just be a part in the healing process, so I'm gonna try to stick with it for a while!

Nini

Hi! I am new here.
I have super oily skin and have been battling my oil and acne for the past 1year.
My acne is gone after i saw a doctor. He said i am never supposed to use a moisturizer and should even avoid eating oily stuff. I did and my pimples vanished. But my oily skin has remained as it is. Also the whiteheads and blackheads have remained.
I read about OCM day befoe yesterday on some other beauty forum and thought i'd give it a try.
The "oil dissolves oil" and cleansers make skin produce more oil...made sense. Also the number of people on thsi forum, successfully using this method tempted me to use. If my oily skin prob is solved, im sure my whiteheads will also come down.
I started it just yesterday and though i saw not much of a difference....or glow; it did not make my skin feel tight(like how cleanser does). I used it before sleeping and wen i woke up, my nose and skin was less oily as opposed to how it used to be otherwise.
I hope my skin benfits and gets better.
All i am scared of is acne. I hope it doesnt cause me to breakout.
Naj.

hey naj! dont wry about breaking out as long as u keep it up then u wont....i have very moody skin with whiteheads too and OCM helped regulate it and now the whiteheads dont show....but they come back when i stop for a long period (2 weeks to a month).
good luck with ur new routine....try and experiment with what oils suit ur skin

Hey thanks for the word of assuance. I hope i too clear off all my skin probs with OCM.
I heard of someone using rosewater with a few drops of lavender EO in it to spritz the face and wipe off with tissue, every now and then during the day. She said she hasoily skinand thsi keeps her fresh over the day and it also prevents wrinkles in the long run.Anyone here been doing anything like that? And hwo effective is it?
I have oily skin and i want to keep it fresh all day.
Any opinions?