The Complete Guide to OCM – The Controversial Cleanser Every Woman Needs to Try

For years, oil was the ultimate facial enemy. Anything and everything was done to remove oil from our faces and prevent it from ever popping up. Oil-free cleansers and moisturizers were hot ticket items.

But now? The game has completely changed.

Progressive beauty companies everywhere are including face friendly oils in their formulations. And for those that want to experience blemish free skin and anti-aging benefits on an even deeper level, let me introduce you to OCM – also known as the Oil Cleansing Method.

What if the key to a clean, clear, and youthful complexion was not stripping your skin of oil or drying it out, but actually replenishing it with – strangely enough – more oil?

Just the thought of trying OCM (oil cleansing method) may terrify you (it terrified me when I first heard about it).  But it shouldn’t.

Oil cleansing has transformed my acne and blemish prone skin to a clear and radiant complexion that I can be proud of.

If you’re already suffering from dry skin or regular breakouts then you need to try oil cleansing. If you want more radiant skin or the cleanser that you’re using is loaded with harsh chemicals then you need to try oil cleansing. And especially if you want to age gracefully with as few fine lines and wrinkles as possible…you need to try oil cleansing.  

You’re about to read everything you need to know about OCM – what it is, how to do it, which oils are great for different skin types, and even some ways to add an extra punch with essential oils.

It’s time to move oil from the “enemy” category to “my skin’s best friend” category.

What Is OCM?

OCM (oil cleansing method) is just as simple as it sounds: you’re cleaning your face with oil. Oil also works as a very effective makeup remover. I don’t know about you, but I used to spend so much time wiping and practically scrubbing my eyes to get rid of my eye makeup. This isn’t good for the delicate skin around the eyes that tends to show fine lines first.

Oil is perfect for the job because it easily wipes away eye makeup and even waterproof mascara with just one to two swipes with a cotton ball. But that’s not the only benefit. Oil can also stand in for your traditional cleanser or face wash.

How to Clean Pores Out with OCM

If you want to know how to clean pores out to get rid of all the gunk and acne-causing bacteria then OCM is your friend. The entire premise of OCM is that “like dissolves like” (read more about that later in the article).

Here’s the step-by-step process for how to clean pores using OCM:

1. Choose your oils (every bit of information you’ll need to choose what’s right for you is below!)
2. Put a quarter-size amount in your palm
3. Add essential oils to enhance results
4. Massage the oil into your skin for a minute or two
5. Remove the excess oil with a hot washcloth
6. And viola! You know how to clean pores with OCM

Stop this Vicious (and Frustrating) Skin Care Cycle

You may still be a little skeptical of using oil to clean your skin. I completely understand. Been there! But if you’re like me you may have experienced this very frustrating skin care cycle:

• You wash your face with an “oil-free” and “gentle” cleanser
• You strip your skin of all of its natural oil and your skin feels tight and literally “squeaky clean” – essentially, your skin is dry
• Your skin goes into hyper mode to compensate for all of the oil that was lost producing way more sebum than necessary (ever experienced oil slicks?)
• Your pores get clogged and breakouts occur
• You get frustrated and start the process all over again

I’ve gone in circles over and over again trying to “correct” my skin issues with too much cleansing, stripping and dehydrating the skin of its natural oil and moisture.

Oil is not the enemy. Our skin produces it with a purpose: it is healing, hydrating, and protecting.

The enemy is actually dirt, bacteria, grime, old dead skin cells, makeup remnants, etc. that have settled into your face’s natural oil and created a clogged pore. You need to remove that “dirty” oil without stripping your face of the nourishing benefits oil provides.

So how do we get out of this maddening cycle?

How OCM Saves The Day

Elementary school science taught us very early on that oil and water don’t mix. But you know what does dissolve oil? More oil. (It was probably middle school science that told you “like dissolves like.”)

You see, when you cleanse with oil, you are actually dissolving the “old and dirty” oil and cleaning your pores effectively. Plus, you leave the skin well hydrated, so your body does not have to over-compensate with excessive oil production.

Best Cleansing Oil

The key to spectacular OCM success is choosing the best cleansing oil/oils for your particular face.

1 – Benefit From a Blend

Traditionally, OCM has used two or three oils at the same time: castor oil and one or two thinning oils. These thinning oils can be any of the best face oils that work specifically for your skin type. (Read on for a total rundown of your top options!)

Castor oil is the most drying and the most cleansing of oils, so the oilier you are the more castor oil you add. The drier you are, the less you add. This means there’s a little bit of scientific experimentation in play before you land on the killer combo.

But you absolutely do not need to use castor oil for your oil cleanser blend (I don’t). In fact, you don’t need to use a blend at all. You can use just one oil if you choose.  I personally like to use jojoba oil because that’s what my skin loves. There are many other options that you can choose as well (see below).

2- Know the Comedogenic Rating

Another important thing to know when choosing the best cleansing oil for you is the comedogenic ratings. Every oil is given a number from 0 to 5 based on whether or not it clogs pores:

• 0 means it will definitely not clog your pores
• 1 means there is a low chance
• 2 means there is a fairly low chance
• 3 means there is an moderate chance
• 4 means there is a fairly high chance
• 5 means there is a high chance

If you are acne-prone, your best natural face wash must be at a 2 or under.

3 – Choose 100% Oils

Last, but definitely not least – you will also want to make sure that your oil cleanser of choice is from a brand that supplies 100% oil without any additives or synthetic ingredients.

So without further ado, let’s get into all of the fabulous oil choices that will turn into the best natural face wash you have ever used in your life.

Jojoba Oil

Jojoba oil is my personal choice when it comes to oil cleansing. Here’s why it’s such a fantastic option:

There is no other oil that is as close in composition to the oil  your body naturally produces than jojoba oil.

So if your goal is to remove the pore clogging oil from your face and replace it with natural, clean oil – jojoba oil is one of the best choices.

Using Jojoba oil for acne is also a great option. With a comedogenic rating of only 2 and the close composition of jojoba to your skin, you shouldn’t have any issues with breakouts.  Plus, it is full of vitamins and minerals to boost general skin health.

Coconut Oil

Coconut oil is the king of natural, inexpensive health products. But is coconut oil face wash the ideal choice for your OCM? Depends on your skin type.

Sometimes people will say that using coconut oil on your face is a valid option because we know that oil dissolves oil. But pay close attention. While OCM is great for acne, you still must choose the right oils. Can coconut oil clog pores?

Yes!

Coconut oil is actually quite high on the comedogenic scale – a 4! – so it is very likely to clog pores especially for more acne prone skin.

Since there are so many other fabulous, nourishing, acne-fighting oils, leave coconut oil face wash for those with acne-free skin types. But if you have very dry skin, it may be a good choice for you.

Olive Oil

It turns out olive oil is not just a health powerhouse when you eat it on your salad. Olive oil for your face is just as beneficial. This is an extremely hydrating oil rich in fatty acids, so it’s great if you have very dry skin.

Though olive oil is only a 2 on the comedogenic rating, many acne sufferers find that it aggravates their breakouts. This list is chalk full of great oils for acne, so it shouldn’t be a bummer to skip this one.

Bonus: olive oil isn’t just for OCM; it’s an all-around hydrating moisturizer for your entire body. Dry elbows, stretch marks, and peeling feet – you name it! I’ve even used it in my hair as a hot oil treatment to hydrate and lock in moisture.

Argan Oil

Argan oil was one of the first OCM oils to start creeping into just about every beauty product on the market – probably due to its high vitamin E content and luxurious feel.

You can find it in shampoos, cleansers, lotions, etc. And though it is encouraging that such a stellar oil can be found in so many products, you really only need pure argan oil to experience the benefits.

I’ve seen some brands offering a facial cleanser with argan oil only to find that the cleanser has a little bit of argan oil and lots of other synthetic ingredients. Your best bet is just to use 100% argan oil.

But is argan oil comedogenic? Not a bit! In fact, it’s a big 0 on the comedogenic scale. Many people love to add an extra drop to their face after OCM as a moisturizer before bed. (Pro tip: if any argan oil is left on your hands, rub it through the ends of your hair to hydrate and protect strands!)

Almond Oil

If you’re not a fan of castor oil as your OCM carrier oil (personally, I find castor oil too drying), I have another option for you. Almond oil is the best carrier oil for face cleansing if you do not want to use castor oil.

This oil is considered non-comedogenic with a 2 rating, so it is still a great option for acne-prone skin. At the same time, it’s deliciously moisturizing for dry skin.

A quick word of caution! There are actually two types of almond oil: bitter almond oil vs. sweet almond oil. Bitter almond oil can actually be poisonous – so skip that one! Just remember: sweet is sweetest for your face.

Sunflower Oil

Using sunflower oil for skin – especially acne-prone skin – is super effective thanks to one special ingredient: linoleic acid. Studies have shown that skin without enough linoleic acid is more acne prone.

With sunflower oil you get the benefits of using a non-comedogenic oil (a 2 rating) plus an essential fatty acid that helps to calm acne.

Even if you are not an acne sufferer, you can benefit from the anti-inflammatory properties of linoleic acid and using sunflower oil for skin care.

Hemp Seed Oil For Acne

Using hemp seed oil for acne is a fabulous choice for three main reasons:

• Hemp seed oil has a comedogenic rating of 0, so you don’t have to worry about any clogged pores
• Hemp seed oil is high in linoleic acid which has been shown to help balance acneic skin, clear blemishes, and act as an anti-inflammatory
• Hemp seed oil is actually great for other skin conditions like eczema or psoriasis

And breathe easy: There’s no marijuana in hemp seed oil – only essential amino acids and fatty acids that will help your skin glow!

Grapeseed Oil For Acne

Like hemp seed oil, grapeseed oil for acne is helpful on multiple levels. First, it’s non-comedogenic (a 2 rating). Next, it’s nearly 70% linoleic acid.

And to wrap up all the goodness, grapeseed oil is known for excellent absorption. So you are not left with oily residue. This means it can be an ideal choice for two main groups of people:

• If you have either dry or oily skin and do your OCM in the morning – the fast absorption makes for easy, flawless makeup application (but those with dry skin should choose a more hydrating oil at night)
• If you have oily or acneic skin and already battle with an overproduction of oil, your face won’t appear greasy

Pumpkin Seed Oil For Acne

Finally we land on pumpkin seed oil. Pumpkin seed oil for acne offers high linoleic acid (though not quite as much as grapeseed oil) and a great non-comedogenic score (another 2 rating). Plus, it is known for deep hydration without a greasy residue.

And if you have sensitive skin you will probably love this gentle choice. It’s rich in antioxidants and can even aid in hyperpigmentation issues.

DIY Facial Oil Recipes

Here’s where OCM can get creative. When you make your own oil cleansing method recipe, you can also include essential oils. These are all-natural boosters that can target any particular skin concern you have.

I want to focus on two issues in particular: cystic acne and wrinkles.

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Best Oils For Acne

Now that we have all the details on OCM, how it works, and what type of oils are available, I want to highlight the best oils for acne sufferers.

I realize breakout-prone people are probably most scared about giving OCM a try, but you can rest assured in these best oils for acne:

• Castor oil
• Jojoba oil
• Hemp oil
• Argan oil
• Grapeseed oil
• Pumpkin seed oil

Another oil you may want to consider is neem oil for acne. You only want a drop or two in your OCM blend; don’t use it on its own.

Best Oils for Oily and Dry Skin

Let’s do a quick wrap up of the top OCM oil choices depending on your skin type: dry or oily. Of course, if you’re combination, you will need to experiment a tad to find your holy grail mixture.

Best Oils for Dry Skin

The best oils for dry skin will improve hydration and help to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Here are some options that really go the extra mile:

• Almond oil
• Olive oil
• Jojoba oil

Best Oils for Oily Skin

If you have oily skin, remember this: oil dissolves oil! Here are some of your top options for the job:

• Grapeseed oil
• Hemp seed oil
• Jojoba oil
• Argan oil

OCM And Your Face

If I could leave you with one parting thought, it would be this: remember the experimentation factor when it comes to OCM. Don’t give up on it if your first oil or oil combo if doesn’t do it for you right away:

• Is it too oily – use more castor oil! Or switch to sunflower oil or grapeseed oil.
• Is it too drying? Limit the castor oil and switch to a thicker oil like almond, or olive oil.
• Are you breaking out? Well, it could be an immediate purge that goes away in a week or two. But if you’re still having issues, try grapeseed, pumpkin seed, or argan oil.

Now it’s your turn. Have you tried OCM? I’d love to hear all about it! Which oils did you choose? Have you found the perfect combo? Any oils that aggravated or soothed your inflammation or acne? What about all my dry-skinned friends? Leave your thoughts below.

Other Ways to Support Glowing Skin: 

We all know that beauty comes from the inside, and while oil cleansing can help immensely, what you put in your body is even more important! Our Beauty Collagen Complex supplement is formulated with clinically-proven collagen, collagen boosters for effectiveness, and potent beautifying herbs and ingredients. It’s delicious vanilla-honey flavor makes it the perfect flavor for morning coffee, tea, or a yummy smoothie. Learn more and shop here.

 

Sources:

1. https://www.beneficialbotanicals.com/facts-figures/comedogenic-rating.html
2. https://www.jojobacompany.com/blog/using-jojoba-oil-cleansing-method
3. http://www.holistichealthherbalist.com/hemp-seed-oil-the-new-holy-grail-acne-treatment/
4. http://supernaturalacnetreatment.com/grapeseed-oil-unique-effective-topical-acne-treatment-due-to-linoleic-acid/
5. http://oilypedia.com/almond-oil-vs-sweet-almond-oil-how-to-choose-the-best-almond-oil/
6. https://www.bloominginbedlam.com/oil-cleansing-method-skin-type/
7. https://www.mommypotamus.com/oil-cleansing-for-clear-baby-soft-skin-video-tutorial/
8. http://www.overthrowmartha.com/2013/07/cleaning-your-face-with-oil-what-you.html
9. http://dermatologytimes.modernmedicine.com/dermatology-times/news/skin-barrier-benefits-sunflower-seed-oil
10. https://www.everydayhealth.com/beauty-pictures/oils-your-skin-will-love.aspx#01
11. http://www.naturallivingideas.com/hemp-seed-oil/
12. http://www.restorationbeauty.com/2014/09/using-grapeseed-oil-as-night-serum-and.html