Today's beauty world is often full of synthetic products. If you're looking for something more natural, look no further than essential oils. Essential oils are concentrated plant extracts that retain their source’s natural smell and therapeutic benefits. They are typically liquid and evaporate easily, which makes them popular as fragrance components in perfumes and more.
These oils have long been used for their healing properties. Modern scientific study is beginning to show that these “old-fashioned” remedies are effective against various skin concerns, pain, inflammation, stress, and anxiety. We're here to walk you through the very best essential oils to incorporate into your skincare routine.
Are Essential Oils Good For Skin Care?
Essential oils are known for their therapeutic benefits. They can help to improve your mood, alleviate stress, and promote relaxation. But did you know that they can also be beneficial for your skin?
They all have many benefits, including anti-inflammatory and antibacterial, and help reduce scarring. It is important to know how to use them correctly. If used incorrectly they can also cause skin irritation. When used correctly and safely, you can see a significant improvement when incorporating essential oils into your skincare routine.
How Do You Use Essential Oils Safely?
Before we jump into telling you about the best essential oils to meet your skincare needs, it’s important to understand the basics of essential oil safety. Here are a few things to keep in mind:
- A little goes a long way with essential oils. They are very concentrated and should be used sparingly.
- To prevent irritation, be sure to dilute essential oils with a carrier oil such as coconut oil before applying them to your skin.
- Before using an essential oil all over your body, it's important to gauge if your skin may have an allergic reaction to the oil or not. Do a skin patch test on a small area of skin before applying it to your face or a larger area.
In general, essential oils and carrier oils are safe for most people when used correctly. If you have any concerns, it is best to consult with a healthcare professional before using essential oils.
A Complete Guide to Oils for Skin
1. For the Lucky Ones with Normal Skin
If you've hit the genetic jackpot with normal skin, you're in a sweet spot where your skin isn't too oily or dry. It’s the Goldilocks of skin types, boasting a radiant balance skin tone that many strive for.
Even so, maintaining that glow requires care and the right nourishment. Blending essential oils with carrier oils like Sweet Almond or Argan oil not only maintains that balance but enriches your skin with vital nutrients.
- Sweet Almond Oil: Gentle and nourishing, this oil is a hidden gem for various skin types, offering softness and nourishment. This is a carrier oil that you will not have to dilute.
- Argan Oil: A universal marvel that leaves no greasy residue, it’s packed with fatty acids to shield and pamper your skin. This is a carrier oil that you will not have to dilute.
- Orange Oil: Brightens your mood and skin, detoxifying and refining pores for that unmistakable glow.
- Ylang Ylang: A master at equilibrium, it prevents dryness while keeping oiliness in check, albeit its strong scent requires a light hand.
2. Sensitive Skin Care
Sensitive skin demands a tender approach. Opt for soft, gentle oils that soothe and reduce irritation.
- Apricot Kernel Oil: So gentle it's baby-approved, pairs wonderfully with Evening Primrose Oil for a fortified, calm skin barrier. This is a carrier oil that you will not have to dilute.
- Lavender Essential Oil: Renowned for its calming properties, it’s a go-to for soothing sensitive skin, with numerous varieties offering a spectrum of benefits.
2. Dry Skin Solutions
For those battling dryness, selecting oils that lock in moisture is key.
- Avocado Oil: A hydration hero, it’s deeply nourishing on its own or blended with Cucumber Seed Oil for a lighter touch. This is a carrier oil that you will not have to dilute.
- Geranium and Neroli Essential Oils: These oils are a boon for parched skin, balancing sebum production and rejuvenating dehydrated skin for a smooth, supple finish.
3. Aging Gracefully with Mature Skin
With aging, skin needs a boost in nourishment and skin elasticity. Here are some of the best essential oils for skin tightening and the best essential oils for wrinkles around the eyes.
- Pomegranate and Rose Oil: There are many essential oils for wrinkles, but these carriers promote collagen production and offer vitamin-rich care to soften and refine mature skin to help reduce wrinkles.
- Frankincense and Carrot Seed Oils: These anti aging essential oils work wonders on fine lines, with a symphony of Elemi and Galbanum enhancing their efficacy.
If you're not quite ready to jump into the world of essential oils for aging gracefully, the Amaira Ultra-Lift Face Firming Serum may be the right fit for you. This serum uses natural, plant-based ingredients including manjakani extract, organic aloe vera, witch hazel extract and Pueraria mirifica to tighten and plump the skin, fading fine lines, crow’s feet, and wrinkles in a matter of minutes.
4. Combating Acne-Prone Skin
Managing acne-prone skin starts with the right foundation of carrier oils.
- Pumpkin Seed and Jojoba Oil: Rich in fatty acids and mirroring natural sebum, they help repair and clear blocked pores. Jojoba oil is a carrier oil that you will not have to dilute.
- Tea Tree and Lemon Oil: A dynamic duo for tackling acne, tea tree and lemon essential oils offer antibacterial benefits and a fresh, clear complexion.
5. Managing Oily Skin
Contrary to intuition, certain oils can actually combat oiliness and shine.
- Hazelnut and Thistle Oils: These carriers regulate sebum production without clogging pores, improving both tone and texture.
- Geranium and Palmarosa Essential Oils: Perfect for oily skin, they balance sebum levels for a harmonious, matte finish.
Ready to Use Essential Oils for Your Skin?
Incorporating essential oils into your skincare regimen is simple. Dilute them in a carrier oil tailored to your skin type to create personalized, all-natural skincare solutions. For a facial serum, mix 6 drops of essential oil with 30 mL of carrier oil. For a body oil, blend 24 drops of essential oil with 60 mL of carrier oil.
What Are Some Other Uses for Essential Oils?
1. Natural Insect Repellent with Essential Oils
Turn to essential oils for a delightful, natural way to fend off insects. They're not just about pleasant aromas—they can also hydrate your skin as they ward off pesky critters. We'll guide you on the optimal concentration for effective use.
- Citronella: Renowned for its mosquito-repelling prowess, it's a must-have in your natural repellent arsenal.
- Lavender: Versatile and fragrant, lavender oil is a dual-threat against mosquitoes and flying insects. A few drops in a diffuser can create a no-fly zone around you.
- Peppermint: Its refreshing scent is more than just invigorating; it's a potent repellent. Blended with lavender, it creates an olfactory delight that insects simply detest.
- Lemongrass: Rich in Citral and Geraniol, lemongrass is a formidable barrier against insect invasions.
For topical applications, remember to dilute these oils in a water-based spray, gel, or incorporate them into creams or lotions for skin-friendly repellents.
2. Healing Scars and Blemishes Naturally:
Embarking on a natural journey to diminish scars and blemishes? Essential oils are your allies, brimming with properties that soothe inflammation and encourage scar healing.
- Start with a base like Rosehip Oil (a carrier oil), celebrated for its Vitamin A richness that aids in reducing scar tissue and rejuvenating skin.
- Shea Butter offers a creamy, nourishing base that's excellent for healing.
- Enhance your blend with Frankincense or Helichrysum essential oils, renowned for their skin repair capabilities. Watch as your skin begins a transformative healing process.
If you're not quite ready to use essential oils for scars or blemishes, Amaira Skincare's Advance Scar Vanishing Cream With Marine Botanicals is the perfect solution. Our advanced formula uses natural, plant-based ingredients made from powerful herbal compounds to repair, smooth, and lighten damaged skin.
In as little as 6 weeks, skin imperfections will fade dramatically while your skin becomes naturally healthier and radiant. Our product is safe to use on all skin types, including sensitive skin and intimate areas.
Are There Essential Oils That Are Not Safe to Use on Skin?
It's important to know that not every essential oil is suitable for direct skin application. Certain oils can trigger allergic reactions, causing skin inflammation and irritation.
Before incorporating any essential oil into your skincare routine, do your homework on the specific oil and be aware of any potential adverse effects. When in doubt, seeking advice from a certified aromatherapist is a wise choice.
There are specific essential oils that are best avoided in skin applications, owing to their high potency or risk of irritation. Oregano, cinnamon, clove, wintergreen, and citrus essential oils fall into this category and should not be included in products like body scrubs.
Citrus oils, including lemon and orange, may lead to photosensitivity, making the skin more vulnerable to sun damage. These should be used cautiously, in diluted forms, and not before sun exposure.
Cautions & Essential Oils Safety
While essential oils offer a ton of benefits, it's crucial to use them safely. Always dilute essential oils, perform a patch test before widespread use, and consult a healthcare professional for therapeutic purposes.
Pay special attention to phototoxic oils if you'll be in the sun and consult a medical professional if you're pregnant, nursing, or have health conditions.
Where to Find Essential Oils
Quality is key when purchasing essential oils. Look for products without synthetic fillers or additives. Reliable sources include naturopathic outlets, natural food stores, and reputable online retailers.
Final Thoughts
Essential oils offer a versatile, natural approach to addressing a range of skin concerns, from dryness and oiliness to acne and aging. By selecting the right oils and using them responsibly, you can enhance your skincare regimen and embrace the holistic benefits these botanical extracts have to offer your skin aging too. Remember, if you're not ready to take the leap into essential oils, that's also okay! Products like Amaira Skincare's Ultra-Lift Face Firming Serum and their Advance Scar Vanishing Cream With Marine Botanicals are made to help, also.