Dry skin is one of the biggest changes I’ve noticed now that I’m older. I’ve had to completely change the way I clean my face and remove my make up. This is why I recommend oil cleansing for mature skin, like mine.
In my thirties, I used pre-moistened face wipes to remove my makeup and soap in the shower to clean my face. But even healthy, organic soap and cleansing wipes are too drying for mature skin.
I now use castor oil to clean my face both morning and night. I must admit, it took me a while to get used to the idea of using oil to clean my skin! It seemed counter-intuitive and I was worried I would break out. But my skin absolutely glows when I remove the castor oil.
My Face Cleaning Routine
I pour about a quarter size amount of the oil in my hand and then apply it to my face in circular motions. The longer you can leave it on, the better. At night, I leave it on for an hour. In the morning when I am rushed, I only leave it on for a few minutes. I remove it by wiping it off with a cotton round. When you wipe, you will see your makeup all over the cotton round so you will know it works!
I purposely don’t wipe the oil off of my eyelashes and eyebrows at night because castor oil thickens eyebrows and lengthens lashes. So I leave it on all night in those 2 areas.
Benefits of Oil Cleansing for Mature Skin
- Stimulates the body to produce collagen and elastin which plumps the skin and fights wrinkles
- Detoxifies the skin by increasing activity of your white blood cells and helping you lymphatic system to drain (by the way, if you know a teenager with acne, castor oil can help because it is anti-bacterial)
- Stimulates hair growth by blocking the hormones that cause hair loss (great for eyebrows and eyelashes. Some people apply it as a mask to their hair but I find it too sticky for that)
- Restores your skin’s natural moisture balance because of the essential fatty acids it contains
- Protects your skin from damaging free radicals (which cause your skin to sag) because it is high in antioxidants
For best results, try to find a castor oil that is organic, cold pressed, hexane free, and comes in a glass bottle.
Oil Based Mascara Remover Recipe
In the morning, I sometimes have left over mascara on my face that wasn’t completely removed by the castor oil. Because of this, I have made my own mascara remover.
Fill a small glass bottle three quarters full with avocado oil (I’m sure olive oil would work just as well). Then add witch hazel to fill the remaining one quarter. Shake well before each use because the oil and witch hazel separate over time.
I just put a little bit of the mixture on a cotton ball and then I’m able to wipe the mascara right off. The witch hazel helps to break down the mascara and the avocado oil keeps the delicate skin around your eyes from drying out.
You may be able to find a good quality avocado oil in your local grocery store. Just try to find one that is unrefined, cold pressed, organic, non GMO, and comes in a glass bottle.
No information on this site should be used to diagnose, treat, prevent or cure any disease or condition. Please consult a qualified health care professional for medical advice.