Thursday, January 12, 2012

Oatmeal as Facial Cleanser? SIMPLY AMAZING!

Just recently I talked about how to achieve a clearer and healthier skin by using natural products which include a toner, facial spray, and moisturizer (click to read). Then I realized that I forgot to discuss one thing...what about facial cleanser?

Months ago I have used Liquid Neutrogena Pure Mild Facial Cleanser as my everyday cleanser. Even though it claims to be a gentle cleanser since it is hypoallergenic, alcohol-free, non-comedogenic, and fragrance-free, it still dried out my skin. I also had tiny bumps (or pimplets as I call it) all over my forehead and cheeks. So I did a little research about the product's ingredients via cosdna.com, and found out that one of its ingredients called triethanol amine has an irritation level of 4 out of 5 (check analysis here). Thus, I stopped using it.

As I was researching about natural alternatives, I came across bubzbeauty's youtube video entitled "Beautiful Skin Remedy" (here's the link). She talked about using oatmeal as an everyday facial cleanser. Oatmeal, according to Bubbi, is really beneficial for the skin because of its anti-inflammatory properties, which soothes itchy skin. Not only that, it also has the ability to cleanse and brighten skin. And most importantly, it's free from chemical and doesn't not strip off the natural moisture of the skin. 

(This brand's my favorite!)

I've been using oatmeal for almost 3 months now (I started using it last November). Unlike Bubbi's tutorial, I'm very much practical using it by just scooping 1 tablespoon of oats mixed with 3 tablespoon of warm water or green tea. I personally chose "instant" oatmeal so that it won't be too scratchy, but rather smooth and has this "cetaphil-feel" when massaging onto the face. Anyhow, it doesn't matter what type of oatmeal you use as long as it's not flavored.

So after some months, here's the result of my attempt to use oatmeal instead of any regular facial cleanser out there in the market.

NOVEMBER
You will notice the small bumps (or pimplets) around my left cheek.
Texture's not really that fine.

DECEMBER
Bumps are starting to disappear, but spots are still present.

JANUARY
This is my skin now. You will notice how clear it is now. (YEY!)

Now I won't trade my oatmeal for any expensive facial cleansers! It has definitely helped me a lot. My skin has gotten brighter and clearer. I'm not having bad breakouts anymore. I have even consulted my new "natural skin care regimen" to my dermatologist, and she was happy by how my skin has improved a lot. She told me to continue using it together with my homemade green tea and apple cider vinegar toner and extra virgin olive oil moisturizer.

So I suggest you give it a try (besides it's really affordable!), and enjoy a blemish-free skin that will surely boost your self-confidence as well as your self-esteem. Bubbi's indeed a life-saver b(^_^)dGood Luck!