Essential oils are absorbed in two ways, through the skin and through inhalation via the respiratory system. Oils enter the bloodstream and react with the bodies’ enzymes and hormones to produce physiological changes.
My question this month is – Are there oils that are particularly beneficial for your skin?
The answer is definitely “Yes”, but firstly a few cautionary notes!
1. Only use reputable good quality oils and always use the right blend.
2. NEVER apply Essential oils directly onto the skin. Combine a few drops with a carrier oil such as jojoba, grapeseed or sweet almond oil. Alternatively, add a few drops to Rose water and use as a toning and freshening spritz. A drop can also be added to your to your favourite moisturizer. For treating more extensive skin conditions, put a few drops of the correct essential oil in the bath.
3. Make sure that you always perform a skin patch test before using any oil for the first time.
So bearing that in mind which oils can we try? Here are a few suggestions ………..
• Bergamot, Lemon, Lavender and Tea Tree these contain antiseptic, anti-fungal and anti-bacterial properties that can be used to protect the skin from various irritations.
• Lavender and Neroli are cytophylactic oils, which can regenerate skin cells when used in massage.
• In addition, Lavender also cares well for skin suffering from traumas such as accidents, burns etc and Calendula has known wound healing properties.
• Chamomile possesses anti-inflammatory properties and helps to soothe the skin. It is used to treat eczema, acne and first degree burns. It is also useful to treat rashes from nappies, chicken pox and shingles.
• Similarly, Helichrysum and Sea Buckthorn has strong anti-inflammatory and skin regenerative properties.
• Rosemary helps with scar treatment. Sage oil also helps heal unsightly scars and diminishes bruising.
• Secretion of sebum can be balanced when the right essential oil is used. Geranium is the oil recommended for this.
• Tea Tree is a natural antiseptic used topically on acne, this oil has fewer side effects than benzoyl peroxide and is claimed to be as effective.
• Frankincense has been shown to help heal and fade stretch marks.
• A few drops of Bergamot, Cedarwood, Geranium and Lavender can often result in relief for sufferers of Psoriasis.
• Combine Rose with Neroli and Frankincense for a wonderful skin application for more mature skin.
Remember those safety precautions and always use the right blend to enjoy the wellness and benefits that aromatherapy can give to your skin.
