As part of a good skin health regime, I believe that plant oils are skin essentials…
Essential oils are highly concentrated plant extracts that are used in aromatherapy, massage, and as ingredients in skincare products. They are made by distilling or pressing plant material to extract the natural oils they contain whilst maintaining the plants scent and/or flavour.
Plant oils have been used for millennia for their therapeutic and healing properties, which include promoting relaxation, reducing stress, improving mood, boosting immunity, and alleviating pain. They work by being inhaled or absorbed through the skin, and then interacting with the body’s chemistry to produce various physical and emotional responses. Oils can be selected based on a specific need or response that the user requires.
Why are these oils Skin Essentials?
When used correctly essential oils have a variety of beneficial properties that enhance our skin. Oils can be used to moisturise, soothe, to improve the skins texture and appearance, and often treat specific skin conditions, for example redness or acne.
How to use essential oils on the skin
It is important to know that to use essential oils safely they must be diluted. Using a neat oil on the skin can cause irritation and discomfort.
Depending on how you want to use them oils can be diluted in a carrier oil or in water. Common carrier oils are almond, grapeseed and coconut oils and these blends are best for when you want to massage the oils into your skin.
You can dilute them in water if you want to make a compress, to treat a headache for example, or a few drops in the bath if you want to relax.
Another good way to use them is to pop them into warm water and inhale them i.e. inhale eucalyptus for a cold.
One of my favourite ways to use essential oils is to make a homemade face mask and add a few drops of my favourite oil. Try mixing a bit of Greek yoghurt, ½ teaspoon of turmeric and 2 drops of frankincense oil for a wonderful anti-ageing treat.
Please note: You need to take care when using essential oils so if you are using an oil for the first time or you have had sensitivities in the past it is always a good idea to do a patch test before you dive in and massage yourself all over. If you are in any doubt, then seek the advice of an aromatherapist or health practitioner.
My top ten Skin Essential oils...
Lavender
The benefits of Lavender oil are endless. It is anti-inflammatory, antifungal, and antimicrobial, which can help soothe and heal skin irritations such as acne, eczema, and psoriasis. It is also an antioxidant so helps protect the skin from damage caused by free radicals. The lavender fragrance also has a relaxing and calming effect on the mind and body.
Tea tree
One of my favourite oils, as it is a little miracle in a bottle, Tea tree is antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral, anti-inflammatory, antihistamine, and antiseptic. As this list of anti’s implies you can use it as your go to for most skin conditions or complaints but predominantly for inflammation and treating acne.
Frankincense
Its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties are great for reducing fine lines and wrinkles. It also improves skin tone and supports cell regeneration so is wonderful for people with acne scaring. It can also help soothe dry or irritated skin.
Rose
A wonderful oil for the skin because it contains antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties that soothe and reduce redness, irritation, and inflammation. It is also has moisturising and hydrating properties that help to improve the overall texture and appearance of the skin.
Geranium
The antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties of geranium help to reduce redness, irritation, and acne. It also has astringent properties, which help to tighten and tone the pores. Additionally, it promotes cell regeneration, which can lead to a healthier and more youthful-looking complexion.
Roman Chamomile
This calming oil is good for the skin as it has anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and soothing properties that help calm, soothe, and nourish the skin. It also helps reduce redness, irritation, and signs of aging.
Ylang-ylang
Ylang Ylang has antimicrobial properties, which can help prevent infections and breakouts. It is anti-inflammatory, which helps reduce redness and irritation. Ylang Ylang oil can also help regulate sebum production and improve skin elasticity.
Neroli
Anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, and antioxidant Neroli helps to reduce the appearance of scars, stretch marks, and fine lines, and can also improve skin elasticity and tone. Its soothing aroma also to reduce stress and anxiety, which has a positive effect on the skin.
Patchouli
Patchouli’s anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, make it beneficial for skin conditions such as acne and eczema. It promotes cell regeneration and helps reduce the appearance of wrinkles and scars.
Sandalwood
Sandalwood’s anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and soothing properties make it beneficial for the skin. It helps to reduce skin irritation, inflammation, and promote a clear complexion. It is also a very calming and relaxing effect.
Adding a few drops of essential oil into your skincare routine can make a positive difference to your skin and overall health but by far the easiest way to use essential oils is by investing in a good quality plant-based skincare brand that uses them in their formulations.
My skincare of choice - Tropic…
I love Tropic Skincare for several reasons:
- Tropic products are plant based, certified organic, vegetarian/ vegan and the formulations use essential oils so that your skin can really look its best, whatever your skin type.
- The quality plant-base ingredients come from the leafy rainforests, sandy beaches and unspoilt coastlines of the Tropics and are freshly made every day right here in the UK.
- They also have a green ethic as their innovative packaging is recyclable, refillable and/or reusable.
For more Face Yoga and Skincare advise then come and join my Facebook community The Glow Club. Alternatively, if you are ready to make changes to your skin care then I would love to chat. Drop me an email at jacki@intheglowfaceyoga.com
