If you’re looking for a natural way to improve your skin, essential oils might just be the answer. These highly concentrated plant extracts have been used for centuries to nourish and rejuvenate the skin. In this ultimate guide to essential oils for skincare, we’ll explore the best oils for various skin types and conditions, how to use them safely, and some DIY recipes to try at home.
What Are Essential Oils In Medicine
Essential oils are concentrated extracts of plants.
They capture the scent and flavor of the plant, as well as its unique chemical properties.
Essential oils have long been used in herbal and natural medicine, as well as aromatherapy, due to their unique chemical properties and benefits.
Can Essential Oils Be Used For Skincare
Only a few essential oils are safe to use on your skin, and even those must be diluted in a carrier oil. You can also dilute them in shea, cocoa, or mango butters or aloe vera.
Remember that essential oils are highly concentrated herbal extracts that are extremely potent!
Essential oils, when applied undiluted, can cause skin irritation and burning, which we obviously do not want.
3 Rules On How To Apply Essential Oils On Your Skin
Rule #1: Essential oils should never be applied to the skin “neat” or undiluted
Instead, they should be diluted in a carrier oil such as argan oil, jojoba oil, pumpkin seed oil, grapeseed oil, and so on.
Here’s where you can find the best carrier for your skin type: The Best Face Oils for Every Skin Type
Opinions on proper dilution ratios differ, but most recommend 1% to 2% of the final product.
Because 20 drops equal 1 mL and 29 mL equal 1 oz, for every 1 oz of carrier oil:
No more than 12 drops of essential oils in a 2% dilution
A 1% dilution equals no more than six drops of essential oil.
Rule 2: Always perform a patch test
This is to ensure that your skin does not react negatively to the essential oils.
The inner forearm is an excellent location for a test because the skin is delicate, similar to that of the face.
Rule #3: Because some essential oils cause photosensitivity, they should not be applied to the skin
To put it another way, these essential oils make your skin more susceptible to UV rays. This, in turn, makes skin more susceptible to sunburn and premature aging.
Essential oils that have been linked to photosensitivity include:
The angelica root Archangelica Angelica
Peel of bergamot Aurantium citrus
Orange peel is bitter. Cumin seed Citrus sinensis cinnamomum cyminum
Grapefruit rind Citrus paradisiacum
Lemon zest Lemon citrus
Peeled lime Aurantifolia citrus
Mandarin peel Citrus reticulata is a type of citrus.
The rue leaf Graveolens Ruta
These essential oils may have varying safe dilution amounts. But, in my mind, why take the risk when there are SO many other essential oils with wonderful skin benefits and no risk of photosensitivity? It’s simply not worth it.
Read about using the 11 best essential oils at home
2 Fun Ways To Get Started With Essential Oils On Your Skin
Essential oils are used in many natural skincare DIYs to add a natural scent as well as beneficial properties.
Here are two enjoyable ways to get started:
- Personalized face oil blend
Learn everything you need to know about choosing the right carrier and essential oils to make a face oil blend that’s perfect for your skin by reading How to Make A Custom Face Oil Blend (Perfect for YOUR Skin).
- Body exfoliant
An all-natural body scrub that exfoliates, moisturizes, and contains essential oils for aromatherapy and skin care? Please, yes! Plus, they’re ridiculously easy to make.
Moving On
In conclusion, essential oils have become increasingly popular in the skincare industry due to their natural and therapeutic properties. They are a great alternative to traditional skincare products that contain harsh chemicals and additives. Essential oils can provide various benefits for the skin, such as reducing inflammation, improving the complexion, and promoting healthy cell regeneration. However, it is important to use them safely and appropriately, as some oils can cause skin irritation or allergic reactions. It is also crucial to purchase high-quality oils from reputable sources.
As consumers, we should educate ourselves on the proper use of essential oils for skincare and make informed decisions when choosing skincare products. We should also support companies that prioritize the use of natural and sustainable ingredients in their products. By incorporating essential oils into our skincare routine and advocating for ethical and sustainable practices in the industry, we can not only improve our own skin health but also contribute to a healthier and more environmentally conscious society. Let us embrace the power of nature and make a conscious effort to promote a more sustainable and holistic approach to skincare.
