By: Jenzi Langley
Let’s talk skin care. Have you ever looked at the ingredients list of one of your skin care products and just wondered, “What is all this?!” or maybe you were stuck just trying to pronounce half of the names on the list? Are you sensitive to the artificial smells many products give off? Do you question if what you are putting on your face is truly beneficial? Well, allow me to introduce you to the amazing world of essential oils.
So what are essential oils? Glad you asked. They are the natural extracts taken directly from real plants and distilled into an oil form – basically, nothing artificial. People have been using natural oils for thousands of years to cleanse, heal, disinfect, and ward off evil spirits. While I can’t promise the oils will scare away the ghost in your basement, I can assure you that when used correctly, they are incredibly powerful.
Oftentimes, you’ll be surprised to find an oil or two already in your products – but they won’t be as effective because they’ve been heavily diluted. Based on your specific personal needs, I’ve divided up a few oils into categories based on purpose. There are many more oils than the ones mentioned here; these are just good starters. But since all of them are completely natural and healthy for you, feel free to mix and match to find the blend that’s perfect for your face.
Acne-prone/Oily Skin
Tea Tree Oil: You may have seen this oil in some of your products as it’s very effective against acne. It’s actually a natural antibacterial that keeps bad bacteria from producing acne. Also, it works perfectly for regulating oil-production which will minimize both the number and severity of breakouts.
Geranium: In addition to promoting blood circulation, this oil can heal open or inflamed acne sores, cuts, bruises, and even burns. With a natural tendency to reduce oil production in the skin, this is one essential oil I’d recommend for those with oily skin.
**Side Note: It might seem counter-productive to put oil on already-oily skin. I’ve even had a dermatologist tell me not to, but she did not know of or understood what I meant by essential oils.
The right high grade oils (more on that later) like the ones above will not clog your pores. Because they are natural, they easily permeate your skin and release their healing properties. I’d encourage you to do your own research and find which one works best for you.
Dry Skin
Rose Oil: This oil is a must-have. Though it can be expensive, it lasts a long time and has near limitless uses. As an anti-inflammatory, rose oil evens out skin tone and texture. Topically, it can help rejuvenate by retaining moisture and creating new, healthy layers of skin. When inhaled, it’s been found to relieve stress and prevent unnecessary water loss.
Skin Repair
Lavender: A popular scent in candles and bath products, lavender is actually a regenerator when it comes to skin care. Sun spots and scarring are no match for its potent abilities. This oil is also a fantastic relaxer – a couple drops of it make for a soothing and healthy bath. And the best part: lavender works well with both dry and oily skin!
Frankincense: Yes, this is one of the gifts the three wise men had with them. And they must’ve been wise indeed, for knowing how phenomenal this oil is. Creating the perfect skin tone, frankincense can also tighten skin, minimize wrinkles and scars, and repair dry skin. For already-healthy skin, applying frankincense can help to protect it from sun damage and aging.
One last note I’d like to touch on is grading and hot oils. There are different grades – or quality – of oils. I would recommend using only high-grade oils as they are safe to ingest and place on the skin.
My favorite oil provider is Young Living, as all their products are of the highest quality and totally safe. Even within high grade oils, there are some that are naturally “hot.” All that means is that the extract itself can be very warm to the touch.
This is completely normal and can be remedied by diluting the oil with a carrier oil such as olive oil or avocado oil. Look up the dilution percentage necessary with a particular oil before using it.
Essential oils which can be found here.
Hope these tidbits were new and useful to you. I invite you to get creative and natural when it comes to having that perfect, flawless skin.
Play around with the oils and let me know which one is your favorite!
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