I have been giving myself spa quality therapeutic facial treatments everyday for the last 5 years. You may think this sounds awfully expensive, but think again. I have been using the Oil Cleansing Method and not only is it inexpensive and simple, but my skin has never looked or felt better!
You can read the first article I wrote in this series, describing what the Oil Cleansing Method is all about, here.
I have chosen the oils in my recipe to match the needs of my individual skin type. My skin has a tendency to be oily, but is often drier around the mouth. I also used to be prone to having a few small breakouts now and then. However, since beginning this treatment routine, my skin is soft, smooth and clear.
The base of my recipe consists of equal parts extra virgin organic olive oil, organic jojoba and organic castor oil. The olive oil is moisturizing and full of nutrients. The jojoba is technically not an oil at all, but a wax and is therefore not vulnerable to oxidation. It also is the most similar to the skin’s own sebum, so it is very easily assimilated by the skin. Castor oil is very cleansing and drawing, so is an excellent choice in a blend for oily or acne prone skin.
To this base of nutrient dense carrier oils, I add a few drops of more precious, luxurious ingredients. While most of these oils are more expensive, only a few drops are needed per batch, so it turns out to be extremely economical in the end. Based on my skin type and preferences, I add several drops of rose essential oil. Often called the Queen of Flowers, it is excellent for sensitive and maturing skin and is the ultimate woman’s oil. Additionally, I add a few drops of Helichrysum essential oil; demonstrated to heal scar tissue and skin regeneration, it is essential in a treatment for acne prone skin.
When it strikes my fancy, I have also been known to add a drop or two of carrot seed, geranium and frankincense essential oils, which have skin rejuvenating properties and are excellent choices for maturing skin. I may also choose to add drops of calendula CO2 extract or sea buckthorn berry CO2 extract. Sea buckthorn berry CO2 extract is an effective anti-wrinkle ingredient and calendula CO2 extract is extremely soothing and healing.
There are hundreds of different ingredients that you could choose from to create your own personal blend of oils. You can match them to your unique skin type as well as your mood, personality and daily preference.
In a future article, I will provide an in-depth explanation of many of the different carrier and essential oils you can use to create your own personal blends. Two of my favorite resources for purchasing superior quality, organic oils are Mountain Rose Herbs and Appalachian Valley Natural Products.
What are your favorite skin nourishing oils to use in skin care?
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