The idea of applying oil on our skin gets some of us cringing. But Japanese women have been using cleansing oil not only to remove their makeup, but also to cleanse their skin (just like how you use a cleansing foam).
Weird? Not really, because science would say otherwise.
First, we have to understand that oil particles aren’t able to penetrate deep into our skin because the molecules just aren’t huge enough, which means contrary to what some of us think, cleansing oil will not clog our pores. Since oil has affinity with oil (have you seen how oil and oil come together, compared to how it interacts with water?), oils from the cleanser bind together with impurities and sebum on the skin, pulling them out gently without clogging pores. Then, the cleansing oil, impurities and excess sebum are all rinsed away together from skin, leaving skin feeling soft and hydrated.
In fact, oil-free cleanser can strip our skin of natural oil, which upsets the skin’s pH level, encouraging it to produce more oil in order to rebalance it. On the other hand, oil cleansers allow skin to maintain its natural pH level, helping it feel soothed, hydrated and smooth after washing.
No wonder Japanese women are known for their impeccable skin and culminating cleansing ritual!
How did the Japanese begin using oil as cleansers?
The first oil-based cleanser was introduced by Mr. Shu Uemura in 1967, making history at that time. Believing that beautiful makeup starts with beautiful skin, the forward-thinking makeup artist launched Unmask, an oil cleanser that revolutionised the makeup industry. Unmask continued to evolve and is now the shu uemura cleansing oil that we know and love.
The new shu uemura Anti/Oxi+ pollutant & dullness clarifying cleansing oil
The new formula of Anti/Oxi+ contains extracts of botanical origin with no mineral oil. The three main ingredients of Papaya, Moringa and Green Tea extracts help remove makeup, grim and pollutants, including PM2.5 – the damaging micro-particles that are present in the annual haze that we experience in Singapore – from skin. It also helps refine skin and clear it of the yellow and dull look. In other words, think of it as a “juice cleanse” for your skin – you load your skin up with supergreens that have purifying capabilities, to keep your skin pristine and healthy.
It will be available islandwide at all shu uemura stores from 1 June 2016.
How do you use the shu uemura cleansing oil properly?
What’s interesting about the shu uemura cleansing oil is that it can be used both as a makeup remover and a daily cleanser, and unlike many makeup removing solutions, it doesn’t require double cleansing at all. (Double cleansing refers to the additional step of cleansing with a facial foam after using a makeup remover.) With its 100% water-solubility, you will not feel any greasiness on your skin after rinsing off – your skin will feel soft and smooth to touch.
To use the shu uemura cleansing oil, simply massage the cleanser over your entire face while it’s dry. Next, wet your palms and go over your face to emulsify the formula. When the formula turns milky, rinse off and dry your skin with a soft towel. It shouldn’t take more than three minutes – yes, it’s that quick and easy!
Trying is believing
But don’t just take our word for it. Redeem samples of the new shu uemura’s cleansing oils and put this popular Japanese cleansing ritual to the test.
This article is brought to you by Shu Uemura.
