I honestly never thought that the balance of linoleic acid to oleic acid in carrier oils would be one of the major components to healing and balancing my acne prone skin. I used to spend over $100 a month on all natural skin care products, and I was always looking for the next best product or routine to create consistent clear results. At the time I was using exfoliants, “gentle” acid peels, expensive blemish serums, facial brushes, and the marketed skin care regimen of cleanse, tone, moisturize, treat, and protect. This regimen needed five different products, was time consuming, and extremely costly.
My skin had good days, then bad days which would come with a major setback of scars from each breakout that lasted much longer than the “good skin” days. I also wore foundation and concealer daily to hide the imperfections and scars that resulted on this elaborate skin care regimen. Regardless of using natural makeup, I didn’t enjoy feeling dependent on makeup to look and feel presentable.
This lasted for years with inconsistent positive and negative results. When I finally embarked upon simple DIY skin care which I share throughout Minimalist Beauty, I still had not learned about oils high in linoleic acid for acne prone skin. I did have some improvement using simple DIY skin care, yet nothing compared to the improvement I have seen over this past year using only oils high in linoleic acid.
My Journey with High Linoleic Oils
After learning about oils high in linoleic acid, I decided to omit using ALL beauty products with oils and butters high in oleic acid and ONLY use products and ingredients with oils high in linoleic acid. I felt that this would be the best way to fully know if this was scientific nonsense or truthful. You can read about oils high in linoleic acid in this article.
In essence high linoleic acid softens and dislodges hard sebum in the skin which would create acne and clogged pores. Most acne prone skin is deficient in linoleic acid. Using oils high in linoleic acid creates the needed balance for healthy acne prone skin.
After over a year of only using oils high linoleic acid exclusively for my face, hair, and body, I have watched my skin continue to improve while also needing to do less to maintain my skin’s progress. At first I was oil cleansing twice a day with an oil high in linoleic acid using a microfiber cloth. Later on I was only oil cleansing in the evenings and rinsing with water in the morning then moisturizing. Now I oil cleanse every other evening or as needed then moisturize, and I use a cotton pad with distilled water to cleanse my face then moisturizing with a high linoleic oil in between full oil cleansing sessions. I share the details of how I oil cleanse here.
Although I have tried different high linoleic oils with good results, organic pumpkin seed oil is what I use to cleanse and moisturize with, and I am never without it. I also love organic rosehip seed oil as a moisturizer which I wrote about here. Rosehip seed oil is high in linoleic acid and although not considered good for acne prone skin, no one really discusses the oleic/linoleic acid balance needed for acne prone skin.
Simple Skin Care & Makeup-Free Envy
I used to envy anyone who only washed their face with water and had clear skin thinking they were the lucky ones with good genes. I also envied women who looked beautiful without makeup, never wore it, and the freedom that they had because of it. All of these negative emotions definitely didn’t help my skin, nor did it make me feel better about myself. I just had much more to learn about my health and healing my skin.
The reason why some can only wash their face with water is because the acid mantle of their skin is intact and functioning in a healthy way. Our skin has the ability to heal and balance itself under the right conditions. Many commercial cleansers, toners, peels, and exfoliants disrupt this natural balance of the skin’s acid mantle, therefore needing other products to create a false sense of balance for your skin. Products geared towards acne prone skin are usually the harshest creating more damage than good. Your skin also becomes extremely dependent upon these products to maintain its appearance if it is even working at all. Improper pH balance in commercial and even natural products and ingredients can also create skin imbalances in the skin’s acid mantle.
The Healing Process
It has taken me over a year to fully heal my skin’s acid mantle so that I could wean myself off of oil cleansing twice a day to once every two days or so and to feel comfortable not wearing makeup. This organic and colorless BB cream has really helped with not wearing foundation or concealer daily. I have used this organic BB cream for a few years now, and when I desire a more polished look its light reflecting minerals give the skin a beautiful finish.
I feel that foundation specifically is kind of misleading because although it visually perfects your skin, it also creates an unhealthy dependency where your skin does not look good without it. That’s a whole new article though. Restoring the skin’s acid mantle to a heathy state while weaning yourself off of extensive skin care and tons of makeup is completely possible if that is something you would like to do. Your skin has the incredible ability to heal and balance itself. It just takes time and knowledge.
Having consistently clear healthy skin was something that was extremely important to me, so I took on the exclusive high linoleic journey and feel like I have finally come full circle. I did notice somewhat immediate results using only high linoleic oils in my beauty regimen, yet it still took time to allow my skin to heal and it still is improving. It doesn’t happen overnight. You can read how I cleared my acne and acne scars as it wasn’t just using oils high linoleic acid that did it alone.
What has been your long term experience with oils high in linoleic acid for those who have been trying this with me?
Update… Organic Skin Care by Minimalist Beauty ~ i am AZUHA ~ Created With Oils High in Linoleic Acid
(Image by Dawn Michelle)
Anonymous says
You said: “Your skin has the incredible ability to heal and balance itself. It just takes time and knowledge.” That resonated with me for several reasons.
I planted a few peppers and flowers this Summer and, I cared for them very carefully for the first few weeks, then I neglected them and they drooped, dropped their leaves, turned brown and “died.” However, weeks later, after a few rainy days, green leaves started sprouting! This cycle has happened several times and each time the message has become clearer and clearer: all creation has been designed to live and will fight to live.
Your post has inspired me. Thanks for sharing and I’m pleased that your hard work has paid off.
Dawn Michelle says
Hi Anonymous,
Thanks so much for sharing this! I love what you wrote about “all creation has been designed to live and will fight to live.” That is inspiring! I do think our body’s default mode is healing and good health, yet it does take creating the right conditions for it to do so. Hope you are enjoying your day and I appreciate your insight. <3
TJR says
I have had a similar journey as you to heal my acne. I had just begun my oil cleansing routine when I discovered your article about linoleic acids. Luckily, the two oils I first chose to experiment with happened to be high in linoleic acid (grapeseed and castor). I felt like the OCM method was the best thing I had done to my skin in years. My oily skin became more balanced, glowed and felt soft. However, I still got regular breakouts. Since discovering the benefits of using sulfur I have since added sulfur powder into my OCM blend and am now experiencing a rapid healing process. I haven’t broken out in weeks and my skin continues to benefit from the high linoleic acid OCM blend. I’m now considering trying rosehip oil as a way to speed up the process of eliminating post-acne dark spots. What do you recommend?
Dawn Michelle says
Hi TRJ,
I’ve also experienced breakouts using castor oil for oil cleansing simply because it is a deeply penetrating and purging oil which can speed up the healing of acne causing more immediate breakouts. I personally do not mix oils and prefer pumpkin seed oil for oil cleansing. Hemp seed oil comes in second for me for oil cleansing. If you have found an oil mix that works for you stick with it amd maybe keep a journal of your progress.
I really found weekly herbal steaming especially helpful with my oil cleansing as well as using a microfiber cloth for oil cleansing. Definitely check out the ingredients in your makeup and make sure to clean makeup brushes, pillow cases, and anything that comes in contact with your skin frequently. Please keep in mind the full picture of healing my acne as I shared here. Be patient with the healing process and I wish you the best.
Myesha says
Your skin is radiant. I too have gotten better skin after swearing off oils like coconut and olive oil after reading your oils. I have a few blemishes but my skin has healed and glows from using rosehip oil, shea butter, and african black soap w microfiber towel. I use sour cream or Greek yogurt face mask to treat and exfoliate my skin. I agree with your sentiment that foundation creates an unhealthy dependence and I also had a negative feelings when I saw women without a stitch of makeup yet beautiful skin. If only I knew this info in high school but I love where I am now in regards to skin care.
Dawn Michelle says
Thanks Myesha!
I wish I had known this information when I was in high school myself, yet I’m so happy I at least know it now. Thanks for sharing your skin care regimen too!
Eva says
I started using oils high in linoleic acid and avoiding products containing any oleic acids especially coconut oil which seemed to make me breakout and was the only only I had tried for oil cleansing and soon abandoned looking for other alternatives. After reading your very helpful posts I tried pumpkin seed and hemp seed oil, It’s only been a few months but I have noticed a huge difference. I love the pumpkin seed method you suggested and will continue to use it. Thank you for sharing your experience!
Dawn Michelle says
Hi Eva,
I’m so glad that both pumpkin seed oil and hemp seed oil has been working for you. Thanks you for sharing your experience as well!
Alexandra says
So excited to here an update on your experience. My story is very similar to yours. I used a lot of products and had pretty bad acne. I also picked my face a lot. It was a struggle. And I felt very self conscious. I tried ocm with coconut oil and it was awful! So I was scared to do it again. Thanks to your info on linoleic oils I saved my skin. It’s easier, safer, and works! I use safflower oil. And also started steaming. I can’t thank you enough!
Dawn Michelle says
Hi Alexandra,
Thanks so much for sharing this! I’ve never tried safflower oil yet I’m thrilled that it is working so well for you. Wishing you the best.
Karin | Green Conscience says
For me, it is not the linoleic acid that works wonders, it is linolenic acid in combination with linoleic acid. Before, I did not know that an oil would be able to sink into my skin completely. Every oil blend just stayed on the surface. What I use now most is a blend of macadamia, sacha inchi, coconut, grapeseed, camellia, meadowfoam, poppy seed, walnut, castor, rosehip and essential oils of lime-blossoms, ylang-ylang, rosewood and mandarin. As single oils I use sacha inchi, rosehip and argan. But I also try to eat more linolenic and linoleic acids because I believe true beauty comes from the inside.
Dawn Michelle says
Hi Karin,
It is always amazing when you find something that works for you. There are so many incredible carrier oils yet I like to try one oil at a time to ensure that it is compatible with my skin. Thanks for sharing!
Tina says
Thank you for this! I’ve learned so much about the type of oils I should use from reading your posts! Grateful.
Dawn Michelle says
Hi Tina,
You are so welcome! Wishing you the best!
Joyce says
Your skin is so beautiful! I have been following your website for quite some time, and I love your commitment to the natural lifestyle. I also appreciate that you update us when you update your routine. I will definitely be looking into high linoleic oils- but only those low in zinc, since my skin doesn’t like it.
Dawn Michelle says
Thank you so much Joyce! <3
Liane says
Dawn,
I’ve just ordered hemp seed oil and the pumpkin seed oil and am anxiously awaiting my order so I can try the oil on my own skin (I’m acne-prone and have tried everything so far to no avail!) One question though: I’ve been eating almonds as a snack almost everyday and realized that almonds have higher levels of oleic acid. Do you find that it makes a difference in your skin when you eat food with higher oleic acid as well? Should I cut out foods with high levels of these oils and switch to other oils for cooking as well? I don’t want the pumpkin seed and hemp oil to be canceled out by ingesting high-oleic acid oils. Any thoughts on this?
Dawn Michelle says
Hi Liane,
This is a very interesting question. I personally haven’t noticed this having a direct correlation with my skin, yet I do avoid processed foods as that does effect my skin amd body overall negatively. Almonds are natural healthy fats. I suggest listening to your body and intuition for what’s best for you. <3
E says
Wow Dawn! Are you make up free in this picture? Your skin looks absolutely amazing! I use pumpkin seed oil to cleanse with and I think its great. I still get some blemishes, but not nearly as bad as I used to. I also feel that my fine lines are smoother now too.
Dawn Michelle says
Thanks so much E!
Yes I am makeup-free in this picture except filling in my brows. It’s great to hear that you are benefiting from using pumpkin seed oil too. I LOVE it!
Nick says
I was wondering which sun screen you used before this one you have up now? Thanks in advance. 🙂
Dawn Michelle says
Hi Nick,
At one point I was using the Devita sunscreen but felt that my skin did even better with Badger’s sunscreen so I stopped using it. <3
WK says
Hi Dawn,
I have been moisturising with grapeseed oil for a few months (since reading your article on oils) and have a Tbar oily and acne prone section of my face. While I think the grapeseed oil has been great for this section of my face- I have noticed great improvement- the rest of my face outside of the T is unhappy- where before I had no acne in those sections, now I do, and plenty. I am wondering if I should avoid this section when moisturising in future (I have been moisturising all my face with the grapeseed oil) or if I should try an oil with less of a difference between oleic and linoleic acid components…
Another question: do you know anything of using glycerin for acne prone skin?
Thanks!
Dawn Michelle says
Hi WK,
When I tried grapeseed oil I liked it but felt that pumpkin seed oil did a much better job. Also I discovered that doing herbal steams to my skin weekly really helped to decongest my skin even further while it was healing. You didn’t mention what you were cleansing your face with, yet that can make a huge difference too. Oil cleansing is what worked for me.
Glycerin is a great humectant for dry skin yet I have little experience using it for my acne prone skin outside of a DIY Beet Cheek Stain. In the end I preferred just using the natural pigment from the beet directly and didn’t like glycerin on my face. Hope this helps.
WK says
Hi Dawn,
I have been moisturising with grapeseed oil fora few months and have a Tbar oily and acne prone section of my face. While I think the grapeseed oil has been great for this section of my face- I have noticed great improvement- the rest of my face outside of the T is unhappy- where before I had no acne in those sections, now I do, and plenty. I am wondering if I should avoid this section when moisturising in future (I have been moisturising all my face with the grapeseed oil) or if I should try an oil with less of a difference between oleic and linoleic acid components…
Another question: do you know anything of using glycerin for acne prone skin?
Thanks!
Dawn Michelle says
Hi WK,
What are you cleansing your skin with? Also although grapeseed oil is a good oil I’ve had better results with pumpkin seed oil. Hemp seed oil is pretty amazing too. Also your skin is a reflection of what is going on inside your body. Diet, water intake, stress levels, and exercise are all components that will result in the quality of your skin.
D says
Hello Dawn,
I love your website first and foremoset. I have been using grapeseed oil and my acne has cleared up significantly however my face has become very dry and I now have ton of whiteheads. There are little tiny bumps that are now all over my face and although they aren’t full blown out pimples they really bother me. I just want a smooth surface. What do you reccommend?
Dawn Michelle says
Hi D,
Using a microfiber cloth helps with gently exfoliating my skin when I oil cleanse. Microfiber cloths are one of the major components which made oil cleansing work so well because they deeply assist the cleansing process removing all of the cleansing oil, dirt, makeup, etc. Also weekly herbal steams help to further decongest the skin like no other and they are so relaxing and hydrating to skin.
You didn’t mention whether you were using grapeseed oil to cleanse and moisturize with yet how you cleanse your skin makes a huge difference. If grapeseed oil seems to be drying your skin you may want to try a richer oil such as pumpkin seed oil or rosehip seed oil. I hope this helps.
Kaushi says
Hi Dawn, thank you so much for sharing your experiences with us! I came across your blog while doing research about rosehip oil. I’ve been using rosehip oil since August and my skin has never felt better. I still got a few non-hormonal breakouts (but that was during long transatlantic travels) but they are way less frequent. Also the dark circles under my eyes are way less prominent now (I’m of South Asian origin, so I had quite prominent dark circles). The best test of the effectiveness of rosehip oil was during a work trip to northern Chile, in the Atacama dessert. It is the driest place on earth, with the humidity dropping to as low as 1% sometimes. When I was there during October, there was a stretch of week where the humidity was around 2-3% and most of my skin felt so dry and tight (and ashy due to scratching!). EXCEPT for my face where I use rosehip oil 🙂 My face still felt soft and moisturized despite the really low humidity. This is the first time where my face felt comfortable enough during a north Chilean work trip (and I do about 3-4 trips there). Thank you for providing such great info about rosehip oil, which made my decision to switch so much easier. Plus, the 20ml Trilogy bottle lasts for a long time, so I’m happy that I’m spending WAY less money! 🙂
Dawn Michelle says
Hi Kaushi,
Thanks so much for sharing this story with us! Rosehip seed oil really is amazing and I’m so glad that you’ve experienced its benefits. Just so you know you can purchase 8 oz of organic rosehip seed oil from Mountain Rose Herbs for a little over $20 because they sell simple organic ingredients in bulk. Cosmetic brands usually price the oil much higher. Buying in bulk from quality and trusted companies takes the middle man out of raising the prices. Hope you are having a beautiful day!
sheryl says
The curse of acne prone/combination skin: limited to a certain oil type 🙁 I had the best results when I followed your tips on primarily using oils high in linolic acid – but most of the oils don’t provide some of the things I am looking for. Right now I’m trying a blend where I make my own face oil using maybe about 70% linolic oil and the other 30% a mix of witch hazel and a different oil (sweet almond, walnut oil, avocado oil) Still not sure how I like it compared to the Linolic only method. I guess I’m in denial!
Dawn Michelle says
Hi Sheryl,
Maybe think about acne prone skin as trying to give you information about what’s going on inside your body. High linoleic oils really did help my skin, but eliminating processed foods and eating lots of raw fruits and veggies has made even more of a difference. I’ve spent countless hours creating beauty recipes, yet the best recipe of all is internal health. Best wishes!
ihuchi says
Hi Dawn. Your progress and my research on oils high in linoleic acid,I’ve noticed improvement in my face. Next on my list to incorporate: herbal steaming & micro fiber cleansing cloths. I do have a question however:what do you do to balance/ maintain the ph of your face? I learnt that natural liquids like acv,aloe vera or rose water are best. Or is ph not important?
Dawn Michelle says
Hi Ihuchi,
One reason that I prefer oil cleansing to traditional facial cleansers is because it helps to balance the skin’s oil production and does not disrupt the skin’s pH. Maintaining the proper pH for skin and hair is very important. I wrote an article about pH balance in beauty products here. Let me know how the herbal steaming and microfiber cloths for skin care work out for you if you try it. Best wishes!
Raw Law Girl says
I learned over 20 years ago that the health of skin is directly and primarily a reflection of what I eat. I NEVER use makeup so I think this has made me more aware of my skin. I stopped modeling in my early 20s due to the makeup they wanted me to wear for photoshoots. It felt so unnatural. Bottom line is clean whole foods diet, water, and exercise = great skin.
Dawn Michelle says
Hi Raw Law Girl,
I couldn’t agree with you more! Thanks for sharing this!
Norma says
Hi Dawn,
Since I discovered your website I followed the Oil cleansing method to wash my face at night, and in the morning I splash water or I use acv + water on the T zone in summer with great success. What can I do for my eyes contour? I start wrinkling there, my face looks very young otherwise. I read to put orange juice around it in the morning and at night but no results for now, it is even a bit creaser. What would you advise please?
Dawn Michelle says
Hi Norma,
Try rosehip seed oil. You can read more about it here. Let me know what you think if you try it. <3
Mariah says
Your skin is glowing!
I’m hoping you can help me with my skin problems. I’ve tried oil cleansing multiple times in the past and it has never worked for me. For a few days it will work, but then my skin will become dry and it will burn. This happens regardless of what oil(s) I use. I tried hemp seed oil again a year ago when you wrote the article, but it didn’t seem to make a difference. I’ve recently acquired pumpkin seed oil from MRH so I might try that now, with microfiber clothes and facial steams. Have you ever heard of someone’s skin reacting that way? Do you have experience with it? I have eczema on other parts of my body and have had it on my face in the past. If I’m not super careful about what I eat/put on my body, it comes back. My skin type is super sensitive, oily/acne prone, but can also be dry in random patches, especially during the winter.
Also, you mentioned you don’t put oleic acid oils anywhere on your body. I moisturize with olive oil after my showers. Would that affect my facial skin? Thanks in advance!
Dawn Michelle says
Thanks Mariah!
Commercial beauty care that is filled with chemicals irritates the skin, and the body also uses the skin to purge toxins from the body especially when the digestive system is backed up. The acid mantle of my skin (which protects the skin) is important to balance. Most facial cleansers disrupt the acid mantle and pH of skin.
If oil cleansing isn’t working as you would like try a simple facial cleanser such as plain oats or others listed here. Look at the ingredients in the makeup you use and use chemical-free cosmetics, transition to a whole foods organic diet so that you body can heal and balance itself on the inside, drink lots of water, reduce stress as much as possible, and get a healthy amount of exercise into your schedule.
Our skin is a reflection of what’s going on inside the body. The healing process can take time yet be patient and look at everything in your life as a cumulative healing process. It is sold by the media that a topical cream can give you beautiful skin but a healthy lifestyle is what really does it along with omitting chemicals that irritate the skin and cause stress of the body to try to process the chemical toxins. I hope this helps!
Chikka says
Hello, is safflower oil good for acne prone skin? I’m thinking to use it for my OCM oil, thanks 🙂
Dawn Michelle says
Hi Chikka,
Safflower oil is often a genetically modified carrier/cooking oil. With this modification it is sometimes higher in oleic acid. The organic safflower oil from Mountain Rose Herbs is higher in linoleic acid though. If you choose to try safflower oil just make sure that it is a high quality cold pressed high linoleic oil. I have not tried safflower oil myself yet. You can find more information here. Best wishes!
MeKayla says
Dawn,
I recently found your blog and have fallen in love! I have been looking to find a beauty routine that suites my skin for years with no luck. I too suffer from acne, although better in recent times it it still present. I began oil cleansing about a month ago and realized right off the bat that coconut oil was benefiting my skin overall, yet still contributing to the acne. I found your blog and was so excited to read through all of your information! I’ve been using rosehip seed oil for just over a week now and the difference in my face is drastic. I can’t thank you enough and keep doing what you’re doing!
Dawn Michelle says
Hi MeKayla,
Thank you so much for your comment and sharing this! Coconut oil is a wonderful oil yet isn’t the best for acne prone skin. I’m really glad rosehip seed oil is working for you instead. That is so good to hear. Have a wonderful day! <3
Lena says
I LOVE your blog. I am so grateful to you for these revolutionary ideas that have changed my skin and life. Thank you.
Dawn Michelle says
Hi Lena,
You are so sweet! Thanks so much and I’m glad that this blog has been helpful for you. Best wishes with everything!
Keisha says
Hi Dawn,
I long for the situation you describe. For 20 years I’ve been caught in a terrible cycle of scarring and makeup to hide the scarring. I have bad hyperpigmentation and red marks from long ago breakouts. Right now I don’t break out as much, except for that I have been trying for years to address the scarring by using products such as retinoids and acids and these irritate my skin, and the concealers clog my pores. I have tried your pumpkin oil cleansing method with some success, but for now my scarring is so bad that I still need to hide it with makeup during the day, and it gets dry and flaky so I need to moisturize and then get clogged pores even though I am using all clean, high linoleic products and simple oils. Do you have any recommendations? I would love to be able to be simple and not buy products or wear any makeup at all.
Dawn Michelle says
Hi Keisha,
To hydrate your skin I’d suggest herbal facial steams. I also offer some makeup suggestions here. Hope this helps!
Hassan says
Dawn,
Great blog. Question? I’m a black male. I’m looking for a natural all-in-one oil I can use for my hair, face and body, if that’s even possible. I’m new to natural products/oils, so I need a little guidance. I’ve been researching a lot and you seem like a viable source. I’ve seen you mention cleansing, scrubs, exfoliating, etc. I have dry hair which develops dandruff quickly and an oily facial. Any recommendations? Thanks in advance
Dawn Michelle says
Hi Hassan,
You may want to try hemp seed oil. Hemp seed oil is also a ceramide oil which is fantastic for hair and it has comedogenic rating of 0, and is high in linoleic acid which is perfect for acne prone skin. Another oil you may want to try is evening primrose oil. You can see more oils high in linoleic acid here. Dandruff could be caused by your shampoo so definitely check out the ingredients in your skin and hair care to see what could be the culprit for the things you are trying to relieve yourself from. Hope this helps!
Trudy says
Hello Dawn,
First off, great site and valuable information. I have been a very health conscience person for the past 12+ years and know a lot about health and nutrition as it pertains to food and practice a very healthy, organic, non processed, non dairy, wheat and soy etc, (also a vegetarian) and anti -inflammatory diet but yet still seeking the beautiful blemish free skin I so want. My flare ups are in no way that dramatic but still quite bothersome and feel I must find the right skin care regime for me. After trying everything under the sun, I am now entertaining the idea of using oils as you suggest. I understand your method of oil cleansing but did not quite understand what you use for moisturizing after you cleanse? do you ever use ACV to tone ? what are the best oils you would recommend for acne prone/slightly oily/ slightly dry skin to use as my moisturizer and do you add any essential oils to them? Will they absorb into my skin well? I had been looking at a product line called Skin essence that is available at my local health food store but after looking at the light moisturizer ingredients, I wonder if they are the right oils for acne prone skin, based on the linolenic acid theory. Thank you in advance for your further suggestions.
Dawn Michelle says
Hi Trudy,
You can read a detailed description of how I oil cleanse here. I don’t use any toners anymore and instead incorporate weekly herbal steaming. I love pumpkin seed oil and rosehip seed oil. The herbal steaming helps to hydrate the skin and I moisturize with either pumpkin seed oil or rosehip seed oil. Hope this helps and best wishes!
Cindy S says
Hi Dawn,
Dawn,
Wow! Your website is so full of information that I have been glued to my computer reading everything. I just starting learning about oil cleansing method as I was researching for my 15 yr. old daughter who has suffered from bad acne for a couple of years. She has tried a lot of different things – DIY stuff and creams from the store, including the clarisonic. She went to the dermatologist 6 weeks ago and was prescribed Tactupump. Its very drying to her skin (benzoyl peroxide) and we haven’t really seen any results, although the Dr. said it could take up to 3 months to see any results.
I picked up some grapeseed oil yesterday (and microfiber cloths) and she tried that last night and then put a little bit of the topical medication on that she was prescribed. My concern is still using the medication while oil cleansing and using the oil as a mosturizer as well. Do you have any thoughts about topical medications and oil cleansing? I know what the dermatologist will say, so I’m reluctant to call. Also, she is very active with hockey, softball and working out so she is sweating a lot (she doesn’t wear anything on her face while playing sports)..she can’t always shower right away and was using wipes to cleanse her face after, but I’m thinking that may not be good for her..maybe just rinse with water after until she can get home to shower??
Any help or advice you can offer would be very helpful..thank you for your vast knowledge..it is extremely helpful.
Take care,
Cindy
Dawn Michelle says
Hi Cindy S,
You can see the reply to your question here. You asked this in another article where you will see what I wrote through the link above. Have a beautiful day and I hope the information helps!
Gabrielle says
Long time reader! Your blog & journey have helped me so much on my own body health journey. One question I do have is you’ve talked about face skincare, but what’s your regimen for body skincare (cleansing & moisturizing)? I’m currently trying to heal my body from back acne.
Dawn Michelle says
Hi Gabrielle,
You can read about simple body care here and my beauty regimen here. I’m so glad the info here has been helpful to you and thanks for commenting!
Cindy says
You mentioned that you used to oil cleanse twice a day..was that during your healing process? Once your breakouts stopped and scarring diminished, is that when you started oil cleansing every 2nd day and water only in the morning with a little moisturizing??
Dawn Michelle says
Hi Cindy,
Yes I noticed that I didn’t need to oil cleanse as often once my skin healed. Learning to listen to your skin is important. <3
Nedum says
Hello Dawn,
I absolutely love your blog. I’ve been following your it for the last 2-3 years. I usually don’t comment, but it has been a huge help to me with my combination, sensitive, and acne-prone skin. I started researching and experimenting with natural skin care 5-6 years ago. Aside from your blog, there isn’t anyone writing about dealing with acne and sensitive skin. I used to search 5-10 different sites and product reviews on Amazon about whatever worked for acne-prone, combo skin. And, while I documented what did and didn’t work for me.
Example:Raw black soap, thayer’s alchohol-free witch hazel toner (lavender or rose), oatmeal masks, and anything with lavender, chamomile, and/or tea tree oil always works with my skin especially when added to a light facial oil, facial steam or homemade acv toner.
It’s great to know there another source of info other than myself when I want to no more. So, THANKS SO MUCH for creating this blog and keep doing what you do ^_^
Dawn Michelle says
Hi Nedum,
Thank you so much for your comment! I so appreciate your kind words and I’m grateful to have created this site to share what I’ve learned. Have a great day! <3
Suzanne says
I used hemp seed oil on my face for several months and it helped my acne a lot, but my (usually oily) skin started to get very dry. I’ve switched to Apple cider vinegar and my skin has continued improving without the dryness. Do you think pumpkin seed oil would have similar effects as hemp seed oil?
Dawn Michelle says
Hi Suzanne,
To avoid dryness drink lots and lots of water, apply your moisturizing oil to damp/wet skin or apply with wet hands. Also I incorporate herbal facial steaming for added hydration for my skin. It’s so soothing too! I love pumpkin seed oil the most and also rosehip seed oil for extra moisture. Hope this helps!
Elise says
I’m interested in trying out oils, but I dont know which to choose. Pumpkin or hemp? In your opinion which of the two is the most moisturising? 🙂
Dawn Michelle says
Hi Elise,
Pumpkin seed oil is my favorite. It is trial and error to find what works best but definitely consider all of the other factors which contribute to beautiful skin which I mention here and here. Best wishes!
Michelle Scott says
Very nice article, you are so beautiful and glowing :)I would like to ask..
Do you have any experience with honey cleansing? If so, was it less effective than OCM?
And also, have you ever tried Grapeseed oil?For me its the best oil Ive tried so far so Im curious. Thank you 🙂
Dawn Michelle says
Hi Michelle Scott,
Yes I have used raw honey as a face wash and wrote about it here. I have also used grapeseed oil yet prefer pumpkin seed oil instead. I prefer oil cleansing as it works best for me, yet I still think using raw honey is amazing too. I’ve experimented with a lot of natural products/ingredients for skin and hair to find what works best for me. <3
aladrin brundage says
How do you balance your hormones
Dawn Michelle says
Hi Aladrin Brundage,
In essence if you feel your hormones are out of balance you should consult a holistic doctor. Also DIM supplements are helpful for removing “bad estrogens” from the body which we can get from eating foods out of plastic packaging and drinking water from plastic bottles. These “bad estrogens” mimick the natural hormones in our body creating imbalance and other issues. Avoiding plastic bottles and plastic food packaging is extremely helpful.
Celene says
Hi Michelle,
Thank you for sharing all you have learned with us. I can honestly tell you I was at the point of no return with my skin. Adult cystic acne, rosacea, hyper pigmentation and scarring…no matter how much money I spent I was only over-processing and destroying my skin and my wallet. Its both physically and emotionally damaging to go through such an experience. You end up crying out of frustration not because of vanity but it’s a psychological torture to obsess and stress day and night and never see results, only a worsening condition and declining self esteem. Thanks to your blog and oil cleansing I have been clear for nearly 5 months, after 6 years of battling cystic/adult acne consistently. I’ve made healthy changes and seen tremendous results because of your testimony. A million thanks, I know only someone like yourself who has lived in the same shoes could understand what an impact this transition of “hurting” to “healing” skin has on someone’s life. Kind regards,
Celene
PS: I have been using a product called Nervous AD for premature aging and I have to recommend that you try it one day. It has been helping me a lot with my hyper pigmentation and scarring.
Dawn Michelle says
Hi Celene,
Thanks so much for sharing this! I am so happy thst this information and my own story has been helpful to you and that your skin has improved so much. I definitely understand the psychological struggle with skin and believe that getting past it is important. Also my favorite anti-aging “product” would be rosehip seed oil. It also helps with hyperpigmentation and skin hydration. Wishing you the best of everything and enjoy the holidays!
aladrin brundage says
Plastic food packaging…ex:like chicken? Sorry dawn I just want to be sure that I understand what kinds of food basically is what I’m asking
Dawn Michelle says
Hi Aladrin Brundage,
Constant contact with plastic in general especially in food packaging can leak “bad estrogens” in the body. If you Google it you will find more information. <3
Miriam says
I am going to order my pumpkin seed oil through Mountain Herbs, but I wonder, if the coconut oil is not helping with my breakouts, I use it for cooking, Because out of all the carrier oils you mentioned, I don’t know what one I can replace my coconut oil with, when making my paleo meals…Please give me some advice on to which I can cook with, BTW do I have to keep the pumpkin seed oil away from light and In the fridge, even though i’ll be using it every night.
Thanks.
Dawn Michelle says
Hi Miriam,
I haven’t had any problems using coconut oil for cooking or food preparation, yet I can’t put it on my face or in my hair since it always transfers to my face from my hair. Coconut oil is a great oil to cook with since it doesn’t change in chemical composition under heat. I also store my pumpkin oil in a cool dark place although it is advised to refrigerate to keep it fresh longer. I use it up pretty quickly though. Hope this helps!
Nicole Thomas says
Hi Dawn! I’ve been a fan of your blog from the beginning. You have really helped me and I want to thank you. I don’t know if this question has been asked (there are a lot of questions that I did not want to sit and read.) Is Evening Primrose Oil a good option for an oil high in linoleic acid?
Dawn Michelle says
Hi Nicole Thomas,
I’m so glad I could help in some way. I have yet to try evening primrose oil myself yet I have had some readers rave about it. Just like all of the high linoleic oils sometimes you must do a little trial and error to see what works best for you. I usually suggest trying only one oil at a time to see how your skin responds. Have a great holiday season! <3
Angie Hoffman says
Hi Dawn, thank you so much for this information! I’ve been trying out several oils, both as cleansers and as moisturizers, but wasn’t finding the amazing results until stumbling across your site and learning about pumpkin seed oil and linoleic acid. What a huge difference! Now I’ve made my family and co-workers an oil blend for Christmas (mostly pumpkin seed oil, but also argan, rosehip, tamanu and black currant seed oil) and am excited to see what they think. Fun, fun, fun!
Dawn Michelle says
Hi Angie Hoffman,
I’m so glad that this worked so well for you! Thanks so much for sharing and happy holidays!
Katrin says
Hi Dawn,
thank you very much for putting this all together.
I started OCM about a week ago and so far I’m doing good. At the moment I’m using a mixture of coconut oil, sweet almond oil, jojoba oil and lavender EO.
Now that I read all this information I’m not sure if I should stick with it.
My skin has always been very dry, yet I do have a lot of blackheads (which improved a lot since staring OCM) and every now and then get a few whiteheads or cystic pimples (you know, the ones underneath the skin that hurt badly but never really turn into whiteheads).
So, what do you think? Are oleic or linoleic oils better for my skin? I’m not really sure with this.
Thank you for your help!
Dawn Michelle says
Hi Katrin,
If your skin is dry try rosehip seed oil. I have combination skin yet it is no longer as oily and is more on the normal side since I’ve been oil cleansing with high linoleic oils. I love rosehip seed oil. Rosehip seed oil is extremely moisturizing and also high in linoleic oil. No matter what oil you choose, I think it is important to try only one oil at a time so that you are clear with what is working and what is not. Best wishes!
Stacey says
Hi Dawn,
I can’t tell you what a help your site has been! I’ve recently discovered oil cleansing and all of the info. on the web has been a little overwhelming but you actually explain the science behind your methods. Thank you so much!
After reading about the different oils I think I’m interested in trying pumpkin seed, rose hip seed and pomegranate seed oils. (Pomegranate seed for the anti-aging qualities I’ve read about). My question is the proportions. Do I choose one to be the carrier and use a few drops of the others? I’m in my late 30’s and don’t have many breakouts but I do have an out T-zone. If you have other oil recommendations that you think would suit me better, I’m all ears.
Thank you again for all of this wonderful information!
Dawn Michelle says
Hi Stacey,
Both oils are great choices. Pomegranate oil is thicker in viscosity than rosehip seed oil but both are absolutely incredible oils. I always recommend to all of my readers to try only one oil at a time to ensure that they are compatible with your skin. As for mixing you can begin with equal portions of each in small batches and make modifications as you feel best for your skin through a bit of trial and error. I like using one oil at a time in general. Hope this helps!
Lisa says
Hi Dawn.
Your blog is so helpful and informative, and thanks to you I’ve already ordered myself some pumpkin seed oil. I have a few questions though.
Ever since starting with facial oils I’ve been having issues with clogged pores. I’ve tried countless of different oils – from pure base oils to oil blends, from homemade to expensive organic ones – but I’ve never been able to get completely clear. I tried oil cleansing, but it didn’t work out (whether it was due to the oil I used or if I was doing something wrong, or using it too often etc. I don’t know). I’m a bit hesitant to start oil cleansing again, but the whole theory behind using linoleic oils sounds so logic. I guess my question is how to know whether something is working or not – should I expect more breakouts and clogged pores in the beginning, and if so, how long before I should deem it a failure? And, right now I’m using some products (all clean and organic, but the oil I have is not linoleic). I really want to get the most out the products and not just throw them away – could I still start with the pumpkin seed oil, as cleanser and/or moisturizer, right away? And lastly – my skin is rather dry at the moment, and I think will be so for a while as long as the weather stays cold – if I don’t feel that the oil is enough to moisturize, what should I do, especially if I want to avoid cream moisturizers?
Thanks so much for your time and help. I really appreciate any help you can give me.
Dawn Michelle says
Hi Lisa,
I hope you are having a great day! For starters clear skin isn’t just from using the right products. I shared how I cleared my skin here and also more about using a multifaceted routine to clear skin here. I always rcommend using one oil at a time to ensure that it is working for your skin. For extra moisture do weekly herbal facial steaming. It also helps with deep cleansing of the pores for the best results. Lastly your diet, digestion, elimination, and gut health overall has everything to do with clear skin. You can read more about that here. Best wishes!
Temeka says
Lately I’ve been using the hemp oil for my skin. I am really enjoying the results. My skin has never looked or felt better. I also want to try safflower and evening primrose, but for now I’m satisfied with the hemp. I’ve also been learning about how most soaps/facial cleansers are too harsh and alkaline for the pH level of our skin and disrupts the acid mantle. (protective barrier) I’m so glad that the oils are not harsh.
Dawn Michelle says
Hi Temeka,
I’m so glad that hemp seed oil is working so well for you! Soaps are very alkaline and definitely not good for the face. Best wishes!
Amy says
Dawn Michelle, Based on the high linoleic % and omega-6 content in Prickly Pear Seed Oil (aka Barbary Fig Seed Oil) I am most interested in trying it! But prices are all over the map! I have seen 1 oz. bottles for $29…up to $99…and all specify “organic”. Everyone says that “cheap prickly pear oil” is actually not cold-pressed from the seeds but rather heated seeds and macerated pulp and flowers version. But in reading the production method for each of these various products, all descriptions say “cold-pressed from seeds”. Is it appropriate to assume a 1 oz. bottle @ $29 is low-quality? Or does the $99 bottle just have a bigger company name behind it…the Crème De La Mer of Prickly Pear seed oils?? Can you make a recommendation on one you know to be excellent?
Dawn Michelle says
Hi Amy,
I haven’t personally tried barbary fig seed oil although I do know that it is high in linoleic acid. There are so many wonderful carrier oils out there and some get more recognition than others or are more popular at one time than another. It almost like a bunch of companies begin using one particular ingredient because it the latest craze.
I have tried hemp seed, rosehip seed, grapeseed, and pumpkin seed oil with amazing results. Rosehip seed and pumpkin seed are my favorites. If a certain oil is not in your budget find a wonderful carrier oil that is that your skin will love. You can find a list of some high Linoleic oils here although I am sure there are even more. I hope this helps!
Stacey says
Hi Dawn,
I just received my first oils (pumpkin seed, rose hip seed, and pomegranate seed) and can’t wait to start oil cleansing. I thought I would try each one individually first to see how my skin reacts to them. How long of a trial period should I give each one before either switching or mixing them?
Thanks for your advice and have a blessed weekend!
Dawn Michelle says
Hi Stacey,
You want to try each oil for at least 1-2 weeks to make sure that your skin loves it. You have a blessed weekend too! <3
Rachel L says
Hiya
I just found your site and I am totally in love. Totally recommending you to all my besties xx I cannot believe how your skin has thrived. Do you really think this method helps maintain glowing skin? Xxxx
Dawn Michelle says
Hi Rachel L,
I do believe using simpler skin care is better for the skin. Most store bought products are filled with nasty chemicals and also disrupt the acid mantle of our skin. You can read more about why and how to use simple skin care in this series which explains as much info as I could put in those articles. It is all about finding what works best for you and also approaching skin care from a multifaceted system which you can read about here, here, and here. Best wishes!
Pala says
Hi, I just wanted to say THANK YOU for an amazing blog! I’m 27 and your blog is the FIRST one what truly interested me. I’ll be reading it all soon ^^
Paulina
Dawn Michelle says
Hi Pala,
Welcome! I’m so happy that my site has caught your interest. I hope that you enjoy it and best wishes with everything that you are doing. <3
Elisabeth says
Hi, I was just wondering whether your skin got worse before it got better. I have been cleaning with grape seed oil for nearly four weeks now and I’ve never had so much acne but a lot of people say it gets better? I really don’t want to go back to the chemical skincare routine I was using before but I might have to if this doesn’t work for me 🙁 thanks.
Dawn Michelle says
Hi Elisabeth,
You Amy want to try a different oil (possibly pumpkin seed oil) as well as include a weekly herbal steam or even a weekly clay mask to help your skin detox. Also look into balancing other aspects of your health as your skin heals. You can read more on that here, here, and here. Best wishes!
Pegah says
Hello Dawn!
I just got my first bottle of organic pumpkin seed oil, can’t wait to start the cleansing!
My skin is fairly clear except for when I am pre-menstrual, and right now I have a lot of fresh scars from a recent bad flare-up of acne. The scars are mostly on my nose and around my chin, they are red and the skin keeps flaking off so they don’t really heal. Would the pumpkin seed oil aid in fixing all of this, or should I look into rosehip seed oil?
Love your site, thanks for the info!
Dawn Michelle says
Hi Pegah,
I honestly love both oils. My best advice is to only try one oil at a time to ensure that your skin likes it. When you try too many new things it’s extremely hard to pinpoint what is working and what is not. Rosehip seed oil is especially moisturizing to the skin too. Hope this helps and keep me posted on how things work out!
Nia says
Hi Dawn Michelle,
Do you make distilled water by yourself or do you buy it? I’ve been toning my face with ACV diluted with water that I boiled, hoping that it’s close enough to being distilled. I recently looked up making distilled water and notice that it has to do with condensing water, but it seems complex and I don’t have all the tools living in a college dorm.
Thanks!
Nia
Dawn Michelle says
Hi Nia,
I buy distilled water. Although I am doing my best to reduce my use of plastic, I think of this as buying a product in bulk. <3