The Oil Cleansing Method
Oil cleansing is a simple and gentle way to cleanse, nourish and moisturize your skin. It also balances your natural oil production.
The oil cleansing method works like this: oil dissolves oil. Massaging the cleansing oil into your skin will dissolve the excess sebum that has hardened and formed into impurities within the pores. Using steam to open the pores gently removes the impurities and replaces it with the botanical cleaning oils to help heal, protect, and enhance your skin.
How to use the oil cleansing method
1. Use the dropper to add a quarter size amount of oil into your palm. On dry skin begin to gently massage the oils in a circular motion going away from your face for 2 to 3 minutes.
2. Use a clean face towel and run it under hot water and wring it out. Place the towel over your face until it's no longer hot, this creates steam and removes the oils. Feel free to repeat this step 1 or 2 times, then gently wipe your face off.
3. You're skin will have a light layer of oil left, this is a good thing. The fresh oils will continue to moisturize and nourish your skin. You shouldn't need any additional moisturizers but feel free to spritz your face with your favorite toner or hydrosols.
The Powder Cleansing Method
Powder cleansing is another gentle and natural way to clean your skin and it has the added bonus of also being exfoliating depending on how much water you add. The less abrasive the better I've found, the tiny grains or powders are abrasive enough to slough off the dead skin cells without damaging your skin by being to rough.
How to use the powder cleansing method
Start by scooping out 1 tsp of powder into your palm or a small bowl. Create a paste by adding equal parts water to powder. Depending on the type of cleanse you want, adjust the amount of water to be added. For more exfoliation, use less water to feel more texture, and for a more gentle cleanse, use more water. Massage the cleanser into DAMP skin for a couple minutes then rinse and pat your face dry with a clean towel. Follow up with a moisturizer and a toner.
Benefits of Facial Steams
1. Boosts circulation. Exposure to warm steam increases perspiration, helping your skin’s blood vessels to dilate, which improves blood flow.
2. Hydrates and oxygenates your skin. Moist heat revives dry, tired-looking skin thanks in part to that fresh, oxygenated blood.
3. Loosens debris and unclogs pores. Warm steam softens the skin’s surface, which makes it easier for bacteria and dirt to exit pores.
4. Promotes a healthy glow. That boost in circulation beneath the skin, combined with a blast of hydration to the surface, will help you look refreshed.
5. Aromatherapy. The herbs work as aromatherapy to help soothe your mind and body.
How to do a facial steam
What you need:
-Bowl
-Herbs
-Towel
-Comfortable place to sit and a clear table
1. Boil a generous handful of herbs in 4 cups of water. Allow them to simmer for about 3 minutes covered up. Then pour your herbs into a bowl or place the pot on the tabletop.
2. Drape a large, towel over your head and the bowl, creating a tent to capture the steaming herbal water. Hold your face about 6-8 inches above the water. You can regulate the heat by raising or lowering your head over the water, or you can lift a corner of the towel to let in a little cool air if you need too. Steaming for 5-8 minutes is ideal. If you want, you can stay under for up to 10 minutes.
3. Follow up with a moisturizer and toner or feel free to try the Oil Cleansing Method to remove any dirt or debris from your pores.