OCM and a Blog Hop

So, you might be scratching  your head wondering what OCM is? OCM stands for "Oil Cleansing Method," and it is exactly that, using oil to wash your face. What?!? Sounds crazy right? You might remember me proposing this preposterous idea about oil cleaning oil to you in my post on make up brushes. But it's true, oil dissolves other oils, and in turn makes a great facial cleanser. I first heard about OCM on Pinterest, that is usually where I find all my hair-brained skin care ideas. I tried a method using honey and coconut oil, but it didn't seem to bring the results it promised.. so I stopped. It wasn't until I read an article from my girl Katie at Hems for Her. Katie and I have discussed our skin care woes before, so when she wrote this article my ears perked. 

You see, I suffer from hormonal adult acne... it is such a fucking nuisance. Yes, I used the F word because that's how frustrated it makes me! It began when I was 23-ish and consists of painful, red cysts along my jawline. I have tried a variety of products, but nothing ever fully cures it. I am pretty desperate, and I will try just about any concoction... and I have. After experimenting for years with avocados, cayenne, egg whites and everything else in my kitchen, the OCM didn't seem so crazy. 

So here is how it works, you start with a blend of oils (we'll get to that in a second), then you massage the oil into your face. Then, take a hot cloth, as hot as you can stand, and steam your face. I like to steam my face at least twice. Finally, take your damp cloth and wipe off any excess oil. It is that simple. The oil will remove your make up and clean out any clogged pores. When you're done, your face will feel soft and appear more luminous. Now, I'm not going to tell you that is the cure all for my acne, it's not. I have been doing it for a few weeks, and although I like it, I am not acne free by any means. I also had a menstrual cycle in the middle of testing this method, so my results are skewed anyways. I will say that I do see the effects of the oil. My normally oily skin is surprisingly less oily. My skin is more vibrant, and I feel like my fine lines are minimized.

Now, if you're still with me, you're probably wondering what this oil concoction is made of right? Well, sadly the recipes I've found are not set in stone. It appears that people tend to experiment with different combinations until they find the right one for them. There are so many combinations you can try, and different recommendations for different skin types. I will try my best to consolidate them for you.

Castor Oil: Castor Oil is found in the pharmacy section in most stores. Castor Oil has long been used as a laxative, but it also has antibacterial properties.  Castor oil is the base of almost all the OCM recipes I have found. You'll want to mix half castor oil with half of a different oil since castor oil is very thick. 

Other Oils to try:
Grape Seed Oil: For oily skin (Which I am currently using)
Jojoba Oil: For all skin types/acne prone
Sunflower Seed Oil: For normal skin
Sweet Almond Oil: For normal to oily
Turmeric Oil For oily skin/acne prone
Avocado Oil: For dry skin 

And if you don't like those, you can try:
Tamanu Oil
Argan Oil
Pomegranate Seed Oil
Borage Seed Oil

Once you've figured out which two oils with make the base of your solution, I like the idea of adding an essential oil for scent. For example, I use just a few drops of Lemongrass Oil and a few drops of Tea Tree Oil for my acne. Do not put too much of these oils as they will irritate your eyes (I know from experience). You can try a couple drops of Lavender Oil instead of Lemongrass for a calming effect too. The last oil which I have only heard about, and am yet to try is Neem Oil. I've heard that by putting just a little Neem Oil directly onto your blemishes it helps to clear your acne. I am searching for Neem Oil as we speak!

There are so many articles written about OCM, and I couldn't possibly tell you all there is to know. If you are interested in finding more information, I have listed some of the sites I have used below. Good luck and if you have any tips, I'd love to hear them!!

Further Reading:
The Oil Cleansing Method
Creative Simple Life
XOVain 
Crunchy Betty
For the Love of Food

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Now, onto the Blog Hop! If you're new to this hop, it's really simple. There is a very short list of directions below, and you can basically link up anything (and everything) you've been working on lately! Whether it's your new favorite recipe, the skirt you just scored on clearance, or your summer playlist, share it all! Also, every week I will be featuring a blogger from the previous week's link-up (You are making it so hard to choose just one!!). Be sure to check out our featured blogger, along with a couple other blog hoppers too!!

This week's 'Blogger of the Week' is Kayla from lovelucygirl! Kayla is a Tennessee gal, showing off her relaxed weekend look. Her statement necklace is what immediately caught my eye! I have been contemplating buying this exact same necklace for weeks now. Upon further inspection, I realized her polka dot jeans are from J Crew factory... you know I love a girl who can find a deal! Kayla resides in the Midwest, but her style has a southern twist!!

The Rules for the Anything + Everything Link Up:

1. Follow your Host

     Tori from My Thrifty Chic

      Facebook

      Bloglovin'

      Twitter

2. Grab the button and post it within your post, or on your side bar. 

(If you do not provide a back link, you will not be able to link up)

3. Visit as many blogs as you can, because after all, that's what a blog hop is all about!

 

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Link Ups: Random Wednesdays / Whims Wednesday /