Overview
Using essential oils is a natural way to heal many problems of the skin. Some of these include dryness or imbalances in oil, acne, wrinkles and scarring. It is also important to know the best kinds of oils, their history, the risks and benefits of using them and other tips for applying them.
Types of Oils
There are many oils for use on the skin. However, five in particular are very useful in healing problem skin.
Coconut oil is a very effective moisturizer and is a solution for flakiness and dryness.
Tea tree oil, or Melaleuca, is a natural disinfectant. According to homeremediesweb.com, it is an exceptional natural remedy for “ailments such as acne, abscess, oily skin, blisters, sun burns, athlete’s foot, warts, herpes, insect bites, rashes, dandruff and other minor wounds and irritations.”
Lemongrass oil is therapeutic. Essentialoils.com says that it is “used for clearing up oily skin and acne, as well as athlete’s foot.” It also alleviates excessive perspiration and improves the appearance of scars, most specifically those associated with acne.
Lavender oil is perfect for every skin type. It is therapeutic and helps prevent tissues from degenerating. It “has great value in helping the skin heal itself, stimulating cell growth, reducing inflammation, preventing scarring and balancing the production of oil while at the same time cutting down on localized pain – all perfect when fighting acne and problem skin,” according to dermaxime.com.
Sandalwood oil is an emollient that softens and soothes the skin while relieving itchiness and irritation. It also “helps cure skin problems such as acne, chapped hands, cracked feet, dry, itchy skin, nail problems, skin rashes, stretch marks, wrinkles,” as tandurust.com states.
History of Oils
The history of oils goes back to about 3,500 BC, when Egyptians used them for medicine, cosmetics and religious practices. Many other populations have also used essential oils, from the Chinese and Indians to Greeks and Romans. Essential oils have been used for thousands of years and continue to be used for multiple purposes today.
Risks of Using Oils
There are risks in using essential oils. These are very minor, however. Some oils might cause irritation, swelling or allergic reactions. These outcomes are not typical, but you should still consider them when using certain oils.
Benefits of Oils
Essential oils have many benefits. Overall, they soothe, moisturize and restore. They fight against infections with antiviral, antifungal, anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. They reduce pain and swelling. They also relieve stress and headaches and are therapeutic.
Other Tips on Using Oils
There are other tips to keep in mind when using oils. If you have sensitive skin, dilute the oils with water before applying them. Also, using the oils for massage is beneficial. This can be done by mixing the oil with lotion or cream and then applying it to the skin. You should also consider using the oil whose scent you enjoy the most; this way you will not only receive the skin benefits of the oil but will be relaxed at the same time.
