We have often heard that certain oils are beneficial for the body and the skin. Aromatherapy, a practice based on the healing properties of essential oils, has been used as an alternate therapy for many years. While aromatherapy aims at treating health problems by targeting the body and the mind, the essential oils used in it can do wonders for your skin.
Here are eight oils that you should include in your skin-care regime. They can help get rid of skin problems and give your skin a radiant glow:
1. Grapeseed oil: Grapeseed oil is pressed from specific grape varieties including Chardonnay and Riesling grapes. It is an all-purpose oil with a wide array of applications, ranging from massage to skin care. The most noteworthy aspect of grapeseed oil is, it is rich in essential fatty acids and linoleic acid. It contains vitamins, minerals and proteins. It is the lightest of oils and is virtually odourless. It dries fast and does not make the skin greasy. Grapeseed oil is a natural astringent and is effective against for acne-prone or oily skin.
2. Avocado oil: Avocado oil is a nourishing oil for the skin and hair. It is rich in trace minerals and vitamin A. Its properties and texture make it especially suitable for hair care. Due to its aroma and thick, oily consistency, this oil is typically used at a low ratio (highly diluted) in blends and formulations. Avocado oil is high in essential fatty acids and fat-soluble vitamins. It is known for its healing, anti-bacterial and anti-wrinkle properties. It is great for sensitive skin and fi ghts dryness and eczema.
3. Evening primrose: Evening primrose oil is a prized oil in skin care for its noteworthy essential fatty acid content, consisting primarily of linolenic acid and gamma linolenic acid. It has been used in aromatherapy and natural skin care to help cure many skin conditions including eczema. It is expensive and is usually blended in a small dilution with other carrier oils. By their nature, essential fatty acids deteriorate quickly. Evening primrose oil is considered an astringent and is used to combat skin dryness and irritation. It is great for the skin and hair and is said to reduce the effects of ageing. It is also helpful against eczema.
4. Jojoba oil: Jojoba oil is actually a wax. It is highly stable with a long shelf-life. Said to have anti-inflammatory properties, it is used in massage and to treat inflamed skin. Th e composition of jojoba oil is similar to that of the skin’s natural sebum (oil). Jojoba oil contains protein, minerals and a waxy substance that mimics collagen. It can act as a second skin, providing protection while still allowing the skin to breathe. It can help control acne and oily skin or scalp since excess sebum actually dissolves in jojoba.
5. Hazelnut oil: Hazelnut oil penetrates well and is said to be a good choice for those with oily skin. It is a good all-purpose oil that can be used in aromatherapy applications ranging from skin care to massage. It can be used as an astringent. It tones and tightens skin, helps maintain firmness and elasticity of the skin. It also encourages cell regeneration while stimulating circulation.
6. Wheatgerm oil: Wheatgerm oil is a fat soluble natural oil derived from the germ of the wheat kernel. This oil can be used externally and barring those with any gluten allergies or intolerance, it can be used safely by anyone. It has one of the highest levels of vitamin E among all the carrier oils. And it is no secret that vitamin E is beneficial for your face, skin and hair. Along with vitamin E, it also has other vitamins like A, B and D. It is also high in antioxidant content. Wheatgerm oil helps in reducing signs of ageing like fi ne lines and wrinkles. It preserves the texture of your skin and hair, and even protects your skin from damage. Wheatgerm oil contains vitamins which help in repairing tissue damage and aid tissue growth.
7. Coconut oil: Coconut oil is refined by fractionation from coconut and makes for an excellent massage oil. It is also great as a bath oil. Its natural dispersant properties allow you to combine essential oils and create luxurious bath oils without the use of chemicals. Coconut oil has anti-fungal, anti-bacterial and antiviral properties, making it the perfect base for any homemade ointment or skin-care product. It is also absorbed quickly by the skin and moisturises well. It is great for lip balms and lotions.
8. Almond oil: Almond oil, a very versatile oil, is good for moisturising skin. Do not use this oil if you are allergic to nuts. Almond oil contains vitamins A, B, E, protein, calcium, glycosides, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium and omega 3. It can be used for all skin types, especially sensitive, inflamed and dry skin and skin prone to eczema. It is known for its ability to soften and soothe inflamed skin.
(In arrangement with SMARTlife)
