Facial Cleansers

There are so many facial cleansers on the market. Ones for acne, anti-aging, wrinkles, etc. The list could go on and on. The one thing they all have in common is they are loaded with toxins. I have only found a few over the counter facial cleansers that aren't loaded with chemicals. Below are my recommendations for simple easy ways to make your own cleansers.

Before you read my recommendations below, remember that oil dissolves oil. One of the most basic principals of chemistry is that 'like dissolves like.' The best way to dissolve a non-polar solvent like oil, is by using another non-solvent similar in composition: other oils. By using the right oils, you can cleanse your pores of dirt and bacteria naturally, gently and effectively, while replacing the dirty oils with beneficial ones extracted from natural botanicals, vegetables and fruit.

Activated Charcoal
Activated charcoal removes toxins from the body. It can help reduce the instances of acne and other skin impurities. It works wonders for completely removing makeup. Currently I'm washing my face with a Charcoal Cleansing Bar from Beautycounter. This bar detoxifies and absorbs impurities in your skin without drying it out. I love this bar. It might have something to do with my activated charcoal obsession, but this bar is amazing!
http://www.beautycounter.com/skin-care/cleansers-exfoliators/charcoal-cleansing-bar.html

Pure, Unrefined, Cold Pressed, 100% Organic Coconut Oil
I also wash my face with coconut oil. Coconut oil is naturally antibacterial and anti-fungal. Coconut oil is an excellent makeup remover. It even removes waterproof mascara (not that I wear mascara anymore, sigh. I miss my Diorshow!) I put the coconut oil all over my face, massage it into my skin, then wipe off with a cotton round.

Castor Oil and Extra-Virgin Olive Oil Mixture
Castor oil draws out dirt and other gunk from your pores. The EVOO is a brilliant moisturizer, helping to heal and nourish the skin. You can start with s one-to-one ratio. Simply mix the oils together in a small bottle, give it a little shake, and you have yourself a frugal facial cleanser. Pour a quarter-size amount into your hands, rub together, and slowly massage into your skin with your fingertips. Don't splash your face with water first, apply it dry. Work the oil into your skin for about a minute. Then take a hot washcloth and put it over your face for another minute. This will steam out your pores, removing the impurities and the dead skin cells. Then take the washcloth and wipe off the rest of the oil. Your skin will probably feel smoother immediately.

Green Tea Face Wash
1/4 cup of fresh brewed green tea
1/4 cup liquid castile soap (I used Dr. Bronner's Liquid Castile Soap - Almond Scent)
1 tsp grapeseed oil
8-10 drops tea tree essential oil
Brew a cup of strong green tea and allow to cool. In the meantime, combine the castile soap, grapeseed oil, and tea tree oil in a bowl. Add 1/4 cup green tea. Pour mixture into a foaming bottle. I bought a glass foaming pump bottle at TJ Maxx for $6. Shake before each use. Green tea is naturally anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antiviral. Grapeseed oil prevents acne and aging, balances the skin, and restores collagen. Tea tree oil fights with acne with its antiseptic and anti-fungal properties.