Does the OCM dilute the effects of using Retin A?
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Tue Dec 29, 2009 10:43 am

Hello,

I have searched the website for threads on this topic but never came across any. I have recently started using Retin A(generic brand).05%. I started out every other night and have been moving to every night. I use the OCM method only at night and use a gentle cleanser in the morning. I have combo skin but more on the dry side. I use a mixture or EVOO, Sweet Almond Oil and Castor Oil.

After I do the OCM I wait 30-60 mins before applying my Retin A. I then wait 30-60 mins and then moisturize with Philosophy Hope in a Jar combined with Vitamin E oil.

Here is my question. Could the OCM dilute the effects of Retin A? My face still is soft after 30-60 mins. Has anyone researched this? I want to make sure I am taking advantage of the benefits from Retin A.

Thanks for your help and input!

Tara Very Happy

free skin care · Tue Dec 29, 2009 10:53 am

I don't think the OCM would dilute the RA as long as you are rinsing it completely off and not leaving a layer of the oil on your skin.

free skin care · Tue Dec 29, 2009 11:19 am

rileygirl wrote:

I don't think the OCM would dilute the RA as long as you are rinsing it completely off and not leaving a layer of the oil on your skin.

I agree completely with Riley, it should be cleansed thoroughly off the skin to remove dirt and sebum ect. that is the point of using the OCM as your cleansing method. There should be no residue on the skin when finished to interfere with whatever product you choose to apply after!

I will be starting Retin A after the 1st and have no intention of giving up OCM!

IMHO
DM
Very Happy

Tue Dec 29, 2009 11:45 am

Thank you both.
I am not quite sure I am getting it off completely? I use a cotton round with a little water to take off the castor oil/evoo/almond oil. I do this multiple times but I do not use a cleanser afterwards, I hope that is ok. I have been trying to wait 60 mins before applying the Retin A to be on the safe side.

Thanks again!

Tara

free skin care · Tue Dec 29, 2009 1:27 pm

Here is an old post that I reposted on the OCM thread explaining the proper way to remove all oil! The last suggestion as far as adding a few drops of oil when done is a step you would want to skip when using Retin A!

HTH
DM

Vor wrote:
For how long do you leave the oil on?
I have jojoba, avocado and castor. How should I mix them, if I want my skin not be that dry and not to get too much pimples?

Reposting this from early in the thread for all to understand the method.

OP hpjrt posted 2007

Hi lefemme,

Yes ... unfortunately I'm well over 50! I'll be 56 this year ...

I use a 50/50 mix of cold pressed castor oil and grapeseed oil. I have a lovely ceramic "soap dispenser" that I fill with this mix, and then I just pump out what I need to cleanse my face. [This seems to satisfy my need to have pretty cosmetic containers! ]

And ... no ... you didn't miss the instructions in this thread ... at least I don't think you did. There have been so many threads on this subject ... but I happened to save the "original" instructions that were posted on the Long Hair Forum ... [of all places ...] ... and they are posted below.

I'm afraid that I can't recall the name of the woman who originally posted this article ... ... I wish I could give her credit.

Also ... the article talks about a combination of Extra Virgin Olive Oil [EVOO] and castor oil ... but my skin didn't like the Olive Oil ... which is why I use Grapeseed Oil instead. The castor oil is important ... but the other oil can be largely selected on your own preferences. Further ... if the 50/50 mix is too drying for your skin ... it's easy enough to alter the percentages.

Enjoy and HTH!

Mary

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Oil Cleansing Method, or OCM

When cleansing and moisturizing your skin, it is imperative that you keep in mind that oil disolves oil. Do not be afraid of applying oil to your face. Oil, alone, will not cause you blemishes. Pimples, cysts, zits, blackheads and whiteheads are a result of several different factors including hormones, bacteria, dead skin cells and the buildup of these factors. Your skin naturally produces oil because it needs it. It is not a malicious force to be reckoned with, it is there for the benefit of your skin. It is naturally occurring. Oil helps lubricate, heal, protect, and moisturize your skin so that it may function properly. Properly functioning skin is beautiful, clear, and glowing.

While I'm talking about the benefits of oil applied externally, I'd like to mention how important it is to moisturize from the inside as well. WATER! Drink no less than 8 glasses of water a day. If your skin has issues with blemishes, drink up! Water will help release and remove the toxins from within, leaving behind glowing, dewey, toned skin. Carry a bottle of water around with you throughout the day so water is always available.

Now, to the point of this article.

Extra Virgin Olive Oil (EVOO) is used for moisture, while Castor Oil (CO) is used for cleansing. Castor Oil tends to be a bit on the thick side, so a mix of the two (EVOO/CO) is frequently used. This allows for the Castor Oil to really sink into the pores and draw out the dirt and grime to the surface. You can vary this ratio to match your skins needs. More EVOO for moisture or more CO for cleansing (25/75 EVOO/CO for Oily skin, or 75/25 EVOO/CO for dry skin). EVOO is incredibly high in antioxidants, while CO is excellent for drawing and healing. CO has been the focus of many books and medical discussion because of its seemingly "magical" healing properties. It only makes sense (after a bit of research) that one would use CO on their face to help treat blemishes and acne, or simply to make their skin look and feel better.

As quoted in The Oil That Heals by Dr. McGarey, a country doctor (unknown?) states, "Castor oil will leave the body in better condition than it found it."

The Routine:
Massage a substantial amount (the cup of your palm, while hand is held open) of EVOO/CO into your face and neck.

This is to be done over makeup or any visible dirt. Take this time to give yourself a facial massage. Really work the oil into your skin. Take your time, breathe deeply, and relax. Sit down to do this if it helps.

You, of course, do not have to sit and relax, but keep in mind that stress isn't good for your skin and you should take any moment you can to destress and let tension float away.

Take a washcloth, terry cloth or flannel preferred, and soak it in steamy hot water. Wring it out and drape it over your face.

What we are doing is steaming your face as an esthetician would, but without the steam machine. You want to open your pores. This helps release any impurities from deep within your pores.

As the washcloth begins to cool, gently wipe the oil and dirt away. This will also help remove any dead skin cells that are stubbornly clinging on.

Rinse the washcloth out in hot water and wipe away any remaining impurities. You may have to do this two or three times more to remove any remaining dirt and oil residue, but it will come off leaving your skin with a beautiful, healthy glow. No additional cleansing is necessary.

After you have rinsed well, you can either splash your face with cool water to help tone and close your pores, or if your face feels tight, you can moisturize.

If your skin feels tight, take a tiny drop of your EVOO/CO, rub it between your clean, damp palms and pat it into your damp skin. Massage any oil residue into your skin so there is no film of oil left sitting on the surface. Being prone to breakouts, myself, I've found that this is perhaps the most important step.
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Tue Dec 29, 2009 3:06 pm

Thanks DarkMoon,

What an informative post! I will just have to make sure I am getting all the oil off my face.

Thanks so much again for your help. You have so much knowledge!

Tara

free skin care · Tue Dec 29, 2009 7:53 pm

tarapet,

You are very sweet! Glad I could help!

DM
Smile

Wed Dec 30, 2009 12:33 am