Essential oils are highly concentrated plant extracts that capture the natural aroma and beneficial properties of various plants, herbs, and botanicals. They are called “essential” oils because they contain the essence or distinctive fragrance of the plant from which they are derived. Essential oils have been used in skincare for centuries. These 5 essential oils have beneficial skin properties that make them great additions to your skincare routine.
Tea Tree Oil
Tea Tree oil is used in many skin care products. It is known for its powerful antibacterial and antifungal properties. Tea tree oil can help soothe irritated skin and reduce inflammation. it can also be used fore treating acne.
Tea Tree oil can cause irritation when applied directly to the skin, therefore, you should always dilute it with a carrier oil, such as jojoba oil or coconut oil, before applying it to the affected area. You can also add a few drops of tea tree oil to your cleanser or moisturizer.
Lavender Essential Oil
Lavender essential oil is known for its calming and soothing properties. It can can be used to reduce inflammation, redness, and irritation, and can also help to heal minor cuts and scrapes. Lavender has a very pleasant scent and is often used in soaps, perfumes, candles, and other products.
Like Tea Tree Oil, lavender essential oil should be diluted with a carrier oil before use. You can also add a few drops to your bath or a diffuser to promote relaxation and reduce stress.
Rosehip Seed Oil
Rosehip oil is rich in vitamins A and C and is known for its rejuvenating and moisturizing properties. It can help improve skin texture, reduce fine lines and wrinkles, and even fade scars. The best rosehip seed oil is one that is organic, cold-pressed, and refined.
Rosehip seed oil can be applied directly to the skin, but it is important to do a patch test first, to ensure that you do not have a negative reaction.
Argan Oil
Argan oil is another beauty product staple. It has often been used in haircare products to help tame frizz and add shine. The oil is rich in fatty acids and vitamin E, which make it an excellent natural moisturizer. It can also help to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
Argan oil is lightweight and non-greasy and can be applied directly to the skin. Use a few drops on your face after cleansing and toning, or you can add a few drops to your moisturizer or sunscreen.
Frankincense Oil
Frankincense oil is a powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant essential oil that is ideal for mature and aging skin. It can help to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines, improve skin elasticity, and reduce the appearance of age spots.
Some Oils to Avoid
Now that you have learned about the 5 essential oils that can be added to your skincare routine, you should know that not all oils are great for your face. There are some oils can wreck havoc on sensitive or acne-prone skin.
Coconut Oil
Coconut oil is a great skin conditioner, but is not necessarily great for use on the face. Coconut oil has a high comedogenic rating, which means that it can clog your pores and cause acne breakouts.
Cocoa Butter
Cocoa Butter is a staple in many black households. Cocoa Butter is known for its moisturizing and emollient properties, which help to soften and smooth the skin. It has also been used to reduce the appears of scars. However, cocoa butter can clog pores, so it is best when used on other parts of the body.
The Bottom Line
Essential oils offer a natural and effective way to address a variety of skincare concerns. The five essential oils listed above are particularly beneficial for the skin, and can be used in a variety of ways to improve skin health and appearance.
Remember that essential oils should be diluted with a carrier oil (like jojoba or sweet almond) before applying to the skin, usually in a ratio of a few drops of essential oil to a teaspoon of carrier oil. Additionally, it’s essential to do a patch test first to ensure you don’t have any adverse reactions. If you have any skin conditions or concerns, consult with a dermatologist or aromatherapist before using essential oils on your skin.
