Skin Care Treatment: Use These Essential Oils for Skin
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Some people worry that ingredients in commercial skincare products could be harmful to your health in the long run, and prefer simpler, plant-based oils.
Keep in mind that "natural" doesn't automatically mean safer. Essential oils are concentrated plant chemicals: they can irritate skin or cause allergic reactions, and some, like tea tree oil, are toxic if swallowed. NCCIH notes that topical lavender, for example, can cause allergic skin reactions in some people.
Most products in this guide are carrier oils, like almond and argan oil, which moisturize skin. Concentrated essential oils should always be diluted in a carrier before they touch your skin. Patch test any new oil on a small area first.
If you decide to go the natural route, but then you're faced with dozens of companies claiming that their products are superior to others when it comes to taking care of your skin.
So, how do you know who to trust?
We've rounded up some popular options below. If you have a skin condition like eczema, rosacea or severe acne, talk with a dermatologist before trying new oils.
Most Beneficial Essential Oils for Skin
Island Apothecary
If you're looking for a face oil serum, the Rose Serum from the independent company Island Apothecary is one to consider.
The company is based on an island off the coast of Maine, and its bottles look great on a bathroom shelf.
It's a nourishing facial oil, not a treatment for acne or wrinkles. If you're prone to breakouts, try it on a small area first, since oils don't suit every skin type.
The combination of rosehip seed oil, apricot kernel oil, argan oil, sweet almond oil, Bulgarian rose essential oil and vitamin E oil makes a rich blend for dry skin. Rub a drop between your palms and apply it to a clean face and neck.
Pure Body Naturals
Pure Body Naturals sells sweet almond oil in a large bottle. Almond oil is generally considered unlikely to clog your pores, though everyone's skin is different. Skip it if you have a tree nut allergy.
The large bottle means it will be a long time before you need to reorder.
Almond oil can be used on its own as a moisturizer or makeup remover, and as a carrier oil for diluting concentrated essential oils that shouldn't be used neat.
Radha Beauty
Radha Beauty is a popular natural-beauty brand selling essential and carrier oils. Check the listing to confirm which oil you're buying: rosehip seed oil is a carrier oil you can apply to skin, while rosemary is a concentrated essential oil that must be diluted.
Maple Holistics
Maple Holistics sells lavender essential oil for skin and hair, and markets its products as cruelty-free.
Lavender oil is concentrated, so dilute it in a carrier oil before applying it, and stop if you notice redness or itching.
Lovely Queen
This listing is organic argan oil for hair, face and skin. Argan oil is a lightweight carrier oil that many people use as a moisturizer.
Conclusion
Taking care of your skin is an important part of your health and should be an essential part of everyone’s beauty routine.
Carrier oils like almond, argan and rosehip can help keep dry skin moisturized. Essential oils mainly add scent and must be diluted.
Finding the right oil can take some trial and error. Patch test new products, and see a dermatologist for any rash, persistent acne or skin changes.
Sources
- Lavender: Usefulness and Safety, NCCIH (NIH)
- Tea Tree Oil: Usefulness and Safety, NCCIH (NIH)
