OCM stands for Oil Cleansing Method and it’s basically a way to purify the face off sebum, makeup and all that accumulates during the day. After the treatment, the skin becomes squeaky clean, moisturized and refreshed and it does not require the application of rich creams. Oils replace soap, gels, mousses, foams designed for washing the face because nothing emulsifies oils better than…other oils! How does OCM work and what effects can you expect? How to choose the right base oil according to skin type and how to cleanse the face with OCM step by step? Let’s find out!
How does OCM work?
Every, even the most delicate face cleanser, contains ingredients such as alcohol, acids, parabens, preservatives and sulfates that violate the lipid barrier of the skin. Sebum is a protective layer necessary for the proper functioning of the skin. If the skin is deprived of it, it is exposed to water loss, so it becomes dry and paradoxically produces even more sebum.
The OCM method solves this problem. The oils wash impurities and dirt from the skin as well as makeup without damaging the epidermal hydrolipid layer.
How to prep for OCM?
To get started with the OCM, you should prepare a blend of oils that will serve to clean the face. The method can be used regardless of skin type, but the most spectacular effects will be visible in case of dry, very dry, dehydrated and sensitive skin.
The basic oil mix consists of castor oil and base oil. You should choose non-refined oils that contain much more valuable nutrients. Proportions of oils for particular types of skin are as follows:
- dry skin – 90% base oil and 10% castor oil,
- normal skin – 80% of base oil and 20% of castor,
- oily skin – 70% of base oil and 30% of castor oil.
While the base oil should match the type of skin, castor oil is a permanent element of OCM. Why? Because its composition is very similar to the structure of human sebum, and it cleans the skin effectively. On the other hand, it has drying properties and those for whom its action is too intense, may reduce its content or replace it with jojoba oil.
OCM – how to choose base oil for a particular skin type?
Base oil should be adequate according to the type of skin. For oily skin we use linseed oil, black cumin oil, laurel oil, jojoba oil or walnut oil, for mixed skin – grapeseed oil or jojoba oil, and for normal skin – avocado oil, almond oil, pomegranate seed oil , grape seed oil or olive oil. Dry skin should be taken care of with strong nutritional oils, such as almond oil, borage oil, apricot kernel oil, wheat germ oil or avocado oil, and mature dry skin – using olive oil, argan oil, macadamia oil or the Musk rose oil. In the case of capillary skin, you will need the strawflower oil or hazelnut oil, and for acne skin – sunflower oil, safflower oil or hazelnut oil.
OCM step by step
First, spread a little blend of oils in your clean hands and massage gently into your face. Then, wet a cloth, or a towel or a diaper in hot water. Remember that too hot water can burn you, and should be avoided by people who have vascular problems. Put it on the face, and when it cools down, repeat the steps 2-3 more times, then wipe the face. Rinse the towel in cold water and put it on your face for the last time to close the pores.
Makeup removal should be done in a similar way. To do this, simply apply a dab of the mixture to the moistened cloth or cotton pad and gently wipe off the makeup. Alternatively, you can do it using olive oil only, and then follow the instructions.
OCM – effects
The skin nourished with oils becomes smoother and softer day by day. With time, blemishes and blackheads disappear from it, and the production of sebum weakens. At the same time, oils improve the condition of eyebrows and eyelashes, which thanks to them are nourished, thicker and stronger. Unfortunately, you have to wait up to several weeks for the effects.
OCM – final comments
Although the OCM method is suitable for all types of skin, however, when it comes to skin affected with acne or dilated capillaries as well as other skin problems, it is better to consult a dermatologist first.
Coconut oil is versatile and effective, but also strongly comedogenic. This means that its regular use may cause pore clogging.
If you do not like the smell of the oils you use, add a few drops of essential oil to the mix. It can be lavender oil, tea or bergamot – it must be an all-natural substance.
In order to use the OCM method, you can reach for ready-made synthetic oils, for example, oils intended for baby care. It is worth reading their composition carefully because many of them contain paraffin and other, include potentially toxic substances.
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