You're Not Using Your Cleansing Oil Right!!

The art of treating your skin has risen in popularity. More methods, more steps and more products to achieve that faultless face. 

However, one product that has divided the skincare world are cleansing oils. Are we using them right and should we be using them at all?

Believed by some skincare professionals, it’s a magical product that’s perfect for melting away makeup on all skin types. Whilst others banish it from their skin regimes, warning us to avoid them at all costs, especially for oily and acne prone complexions.

Whichever team you side with, one thing all dermatologists can’t stress enough is the importance that if you’re going to use the product, use it correctly.

Rachel Nazarian, MD, a board-certified dermatologist believes that cleansing oils are a great first step for those that wear makeup. She recommends that the product “be used for sensitive or dry-skinned people…..as a gentle method of removing stubborn products without over-drying the skin.” As a professional in the field she sees many people using the product wrong, preventing it from working its best.

Listed below are the 3 mistakes we’re making when using our cleansing oils.

Applying it to wet skin

Hold off from turning the tap and grab your cleansing oil before. “Your goal is to allow the oil to blend with the natural oils, dirt, and makeup on your face..” says Dr. Nazarian. Introducing water before will only prevent the product from effectively drawing out the dirt and oils from your pores. Apply the cleansing oil to a complete dry complexion, using circular motions to massage the oil gently into the skin, then add water.

Using cold water

Dr. Nazarian advises to stay away from cold water as “[the oil] is most likely to firm towards a solid state” making it ineffective. She says “warmer temperatures ensure the oil stays in a liquid state, [making it] more effective with the oils and dirt on your skin.” However, avoid hot water as it will strip your skin barrier and make the nourishing elements of the cleanser ineffective.

Not rinsing entirely

Possibly confused with facial oils that stay on your skin all day, cleansing oils need to be removed as they can cause blemishes and prevent other products from working properly. Dr Nazarian stresses the importance of having a clean complexion, removing all traces of the cleanser before applying your next skincare products to allow all the benefits from the rest of your routine.

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