Oil Cleansing for Oily Skin: A Step-by-Step Guide

Cleansing your face with oil sounds odd if your skin is already oily, but the method is simple and widely used. This guide explains how oil cleansing works, how to do it step by step and who should be careful.

How oil cleansing works

Oil dissolves oil. A cleansing oil breaks down sebum, sunscreen and makeup, and is then rinsed away with water. Because it does not strip the skin the way some foaming cleansers can, many people with oily or sensitive skin find it comfortable.

Step by step

1. Start with a dry or slightly damp face. For Herbostra Face Wash Oil, the directions say to moisten the face and put a drop on each finger.
2. Apply to the forehead and cheeks and massage in small circles. This loosens dirt and makeup.
3. Add a few drops of water to your fingers and massage for about a minute. A mild foam forms.
4. Rinse well with water and pat dry.

What is in Herbostra Face Wash Oil?

It is a blend of plant oils. The product lists almond, grapeseed, gotukola, kumkumadi, turmeric, calendula, carrot, wheatgerm, argan, shea, macadamia, green tea, chamomile, aloe, olive, cinnamon and saffron oils, among others. It is non-foaming at first and designed to remove dirt, makeup and excess oil without stripping skin.

Who should be careful

• Do a patch test first, because the blend contains many botanical oils.
• Avoid contact with your eyes.
• If your skin is very acne-prone, ask a dermatologist before changing your routine.
• Stop if you notice stinging, redness or new breakouts that do not settle.

Build a simple routine

Pair your cleanser with sunscreen in the morning and a light moisturiser at night. For a wider look at routines for oily skin, read Ayurvedic Skincare for Oily Skin.

This guide is general information about traditional Ayurvedic practice and is not a substitute for advice from a doctor or dentist. Herbostra products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. Speak to a qualified professional if you are pregnant, nursing, on medication or have a medical condition.