The History of Oil Cleansing
If you read our blog on saunas and skin health, you’ll know that in the world of natural skincare, time-tested traditions are returning to the forefront. One of the best examples? Oil cleansing.
Oil-based cleansers are more than a trend. Their origins reside in ancient Egypt, and traditional Asian beauty rituals. The method has long been revered for its ability to purify the skin without stripping it, and lucky for us, its making a comeback.
Unlike modern foaming cleansers, which can be harsh and disruptive to the skin barrier, oil-based cleansers work with your skin’s natural oils to gently remove dirt, makeup, and impurities while maintaining hydration.
What is an Oil-Based Cleanser? How is it Different from a Water-Based Cleanser?
Oil-based cleansers, like our CLEAN, non-foaming cleanser, use plant-derived oils to dissolve excess sebum, makeup, and daily debris.
Unlike water-based cleansers that rely on surfactants (chemical compounds, like sulfates) to break down oil and dirt, oil-based cleansers bind with the oils on your skin, lifting away impurities without disrupting the skin’s natural moisture balance.
The key difference? Oil cleansers remove excess oil without leaving your skin feeling tight or dry, making them ideal for all skin types—including oily and acne-prone skin.
Myth #1: Oil Cleansers Clog Your Pores
One of the biggest misconceptions about oil cleansing is that it leads to clogged pores. In reality, oil dissolves oil—meaning that instead of contributing to congestion, an oil-based cleanser actually helps break down the excess sebum, sweat, and debris that collect on your skin throughout the day.
Our CLEAN Cleanser contains non-comedogenic oils like Fractionated Coconut Oil, Evening Primrose Oil, and Carrot Carrier Oil, which effectively remove dirt and excess oil without blocking pores. The Emulsifying Wax in the formula plays a crucial role by allowing the oils to bind with water, ensuring a residue-free rinse. When massaged onto dry skin, the oils lift and envelope debris, which is then easily emulsified and washed away when rinsed with warm water.
Myth #2: Oil Cleansers Don’t Work on Oily Skin
It might sound counterintuitive, but using an oil-based cleanser can actually help regulate oil production in oily and acne-prone skin types. Many traditional foaming cleansers strip the skin of its natural oils, causing the skin to overcompensate by producing even more sebum—leading to more oiliness and breakouts.
The natural plant oils in CLEAN Cleanser, including Sunflower Seed Oil and Grape Seed Oil, help balance the skin’s oil levels. These lightweight, non-greasy oils dissolve excess sebum without triggering overproduction. Additionally, Rosemary Extract has natural antibacterial properties that help keep pores clear and reduce breakouts. Regular use of an oil cleanser can lead to a more balanced complexion, reducing both excessive dryness and oiliness over time.
How to Use an Oil-Based Cleanser in Your Routine
Incorporating an oil cleanser into your skincare routine is simple and can be incredibly effective when done correctly:
- Apply to Dry Skin – Begin with dry hands and dry skin. Massage CLEAN Cleanser onto your face in circular motions for about 30-60 seconds to allow the oils to break down makeup, dirt, and excess sebum.
- Emulsify – Add a small amount of warm water and continue massaging. The Emulsifying Wax in the formula allows the oil to turn into a milky consistency, making it easy to rinse off without leaving a greasy residue.
- Rinse Thoroughly – Use lukewarm water to rinse off the cleanser completely.
- Follow with a Toner – Pair with our BALANCE Toner to remove any remaining impurities and prep your skin for hydration.
- Continue Your Routine – Apply serums, moisturizers, or treatments as needed.
Final Thoughts
Oil cleansing has been around for centuries for a reason—it works. If you’ve been on the fence, consider experimenting with an oil-based cleanser and see how your skin responds. You might just find it’s the missing step in your routine!
