The Benefits of Essential Oils for the Skin

The Benefits of Essential Oils for the Skin

Essential oils have been an integral part of natural, holistic skin care for centuries. Today, there are approximately 2,000 known plant species from which various essential oils are derived, and the value of essential oils in cosmetics and skin care may lie in their ability to provide multiple benefits.

Unlike synthetic oils, the benefits of essential oils are profound, allowing us to relax and promoting physical and psychological well-being - truly holistic well-being. Essential oils are also easily absorbed through the skin making them an ideal topical treatment. Not only can they nourish, repair and protect the skin, they can also relax the senses, relieve stress and stimulate the senses. Essentially, essential oils are an invaluable tool in our endeavor to obtain better skin health and overall well-being.

Dilution

Dilution is definitely one of the most important factors in the safe use of essential oils in skin care. When applied without dilution, concentrated essential oils can cause irritation and other harmful effects on the skin and should therefore always be diluted with a carrier oil such as coconut oil (or argan oil).

Diluting the oil does not lessen its beneficial effects - in many cases, using a carrier oil can actually increase the overall effectiveness of the essential oil. There are some essential oils, such as lavender, that are considered safe to use undiluted, but it is still important to be cautious and err on the side of caution when applying them to the skin.

Diluting essential oils by adding a carrier oil is an easy and convenient way to ensure that the skin is safe and that the most beneficial effects will be achieved.

Part I. Different Types of Skin:
a) Normal
b) Dry
c) Sensitive
d) Oily or Combination

Part II: Common Skin Issues
a) Acne
b) Sagging and Cellulite
c) Pigmentation, Freckles, Changes in Skin Color, Scars, and Stretch Marks
d) Skin Injuries such as Abrasions, Cuts, Insect Bites, and Minor Burns
e) Signs of Aging including Fine Lines, Spots, and Age Spots.

I.a) Normal skin

Those who have a relatively rare skin type are lucky - it is characterized by a balanced state in which the skin's lipids are in healthy alignment, creating a natural and healthy glow.

To support normal skin type, try using essential oils such as lavender, neroli, geranium and ylang-ylang. Lavender oil provides optimal hydration and natural skin health, while neroli acts as a cleanser and antioxidant and is beneficial to the skin's surface. Geranium oil also helps regulate oil production and reduce inflammation, as well as help prevent acne and sensitivity.

Lastly, ylang-ylang is known to harmonize the internal and external environment, as well as staving off dryness and excess sebum production.

I.b) Dry skin

Dry skin is a very common issue, mainly caused by a lack of sebum which then causes a decrease in hydration and an increase in water loss from the skin's surface. As sebum helps to create a protective barrier on the skin, without it the skin barrier is compromised which makes it more susceptible to irritation and sensitivity. Dehydration of the skin can also contribute to dry skin.

Essential oils are a great option to combat the dryness as they can soothe and moisturize the skin in a natural way. It is wise to avoid high pH soaps and harsh cosmetic ingredients on the face when dealing with dry skin. For this skin type, Chamomile Roman, German chamomile, Frankincense, Rose Absolute, and Jasmine Sambac essential oils can soothe, nourish, and improve hydration in dry skin.

I.c) Sensitive skin

People with sensitive skin experience frequent discomfort and distress as a result of flare-ups such as burning, itching, cracking, and rashes. These symptoms may be caused by skin conditions like eczema, dermatitis, and rosacea, as well as products with fragrances and dyes. To provide relief to sensitive skin, the best essential oils to use are very gentle and anti-inflammatory.

Note that not all people with sensitive skin have a reaction to fragrances, including essential oils. To be safe, it is highly recommended to always perform a skin test before use and to dilute the essential oil very slightly at the start.

Using the following essential oils may help soothe sensitive skin and skin irritations: Rose absolute, which is a natural moisturizer and anti-inflammatory that penetrates deep into the skin; and Chamomile essential oil, which soothes and moisturizes inflamed and irritated skin and can help with rashes.

I.d) Oily and combination skin

Oily or combination skin is a frequent issue, particularly among adolescents. It is identified by an overabundance of sebum production in the skin, resulting in oily and flaky skin. This skin type can be modified by utilizing purifying and brightening essential oils which cleanse and reduce sebum production. Additionally, astringent oils can also help decrease the visibility of pores. Appropriate maintenance of oily skin can thwart acne caused by bacterial buildup in pores that are blocked with oil and dirt.

Try out these essential oils to refresh oily skin:

Tea Tree Essential Oil: purges oil buildup while being acknowledged for its natural antibacterial properties. Commonly used in skin care products for oily and acne-prone skin.

Neroli essential oil: gentle on the skin in addition to having antifungal and antibacterial properties, beneficial for cleansing oily skin and preventing blemishes.

Lemon essential oil, Bergamot Essential Oil (bergapten free): houses anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, effective in improving oily skin. Most other citrus oils, such as sweet orange, mandarin, and grapefruit, are suitable for oily skin.

Cypress essential oil is an extremely potent tonic oil that can brighten skin and lessen shine. It has been said to have antibacterial properties.

Common Skin Problems

II.a) Acne

Acne is a chronic, recurring skin condition that primarily affects the face and can also appear on the body. It is first observed during puberty and can continue until the age of 40. It can manifest as blackheads, whiteheads, blemishes and pustules, the accumulation of which causes the skin pores and hair follicles to become blocked. Thus, a non-comedogenic, or non-clogging skin care and cosmetic routine is encouraged, along with the use of non-comedogenic jojoba oil as a carrier oil.

Additionally, essential oils can be utilized to naturally reduce the symptoms of mild acne. Cinnamon oil has been found to have prominent antioxidant compounds, such as cinnamic acid, which reduce inflammation in the skin to treat cysts, nodules and pustules. Tea tree, oregano and thyme oils all contain components which are capable of inhibiting acne-causing bacteria.

Lastly, lemongrass oil serves as a simple, natural astringent which improves the appearance of acne-afflicted complexions while battling bacteria, removing dead skin cells and even causing acne scars to fade.

II.b) Cellulite and sagging skin

Cellulite is a common condition that causes the skin to have a dimpled or wavy texture similar to cottage cheese, often found on areas like the thighs, knees, and buttocks. It is unrelated to body size or weight. Loose skin, also known to as sagging skin, is a sign of aging, but can also be a result of significant weight loss or pregnancy.

As blood circulation slows with age, collagen synthesis in the skin worsens and this can cause problems that worsen over time. Both cellulite and sagging skin can be a major problem concerning self-esteem, but essential oils such as sweet fennel, juniper berry, and grapefruit can reduce toxins, stimulate the lymphatic system, increase blood flow, and reduce the appearance of cellulite.

To further tackle the issue, black pepper and sage essential oils can be used for slimming, anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant effects, and to ultimately firm the skin.

II.c) Pigmentation, freckles, discoloration, scars and stretch marks.

Scars and spots on the skin can be due to both external and internal factors, such as wounds, hormonal imbalances and pregnancy. The amount of time needed to reduce the discoloration of the skin is often influenced by the amount of connective tissue in the skin and whether the scar is young or relatively old.

Essential oils which contain healing and skin regenerating properties are effective in stimulating cell growth and tissue repair. A few essential oils you can use to decrease the visibility of scars and pigmentation are Lavender, Frankincense, Black Pepper, Turmeric and Ylang-Ylang. Geranium is also beneficial for leveling out skin tones, while Lemon is useful for fighting inflammation and free radicals that could lead to acne and photoaging.

II.d) Skin injuries: scratches, cuts, insect bites, minor burns.

Essential oils are popularly used by herbalists, aromatherapists and traditional practitioners as a natural alternative to treating minor skin injuries such as cuts, scrapes and abrasions. These oils can be used to cleanse the skin, reduce the risk of scarring and relieve pain.

Essential oils such as Peppermint, Helichyrsum, Rose, Frankincense, Tea Tree, Myrrh, Lavender, Chamomile and Wintergreen have analgesic, anti-bacterial and citric acid properties that work to reduce inflammation, moisturize, cleanse and soothe the skin. Eucalyptus and Patchouli are known for their pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory effects making them particularly beneficial in treating eczema. However, it is important to note that new or serious wounds should be treated with first aid or medical attention.

II. e) Aging: fine lines, wrinkles and age spots.

Aging is an unavoidable process that can lead to various skin problems, such as fine lines, dryness, dullness, and laxity. Premature aging, meanwhile, is caused by unhealthy lifestyle habits like smoking and inadequate sun protection.

Luckily, essential oils, particularly those rich in protective, antioxidant, and anti-aging properties, can help restore the youthful skin glow. Among the most recommended essential oils for aging skin are Rose Absolute, Jasmine Absolute, Sage Essential Oil, Palmarosa, Frankincense, Neroli, Carrot Seed, Pomegranate, Tangerine, and Geranium.

Rose Absolute, for instance, is known to be beneficial in reducing scars, softening the skin, and combating dryness. Jasmine Absolute is effective in soothing and deeply moisturizing the skin. Sage Essential Oil can regulate the internal and external functions, reinforcing the female hormone balancing that can cause skin problems, as well as promoting skin cell regeneration.

Palmarosa and Frankincense, on the other hand, can revitalize the skin and inhibit the formation of wrinkles and fine lines.

Apart from this, Neroli and Tangerine are said to be helpful in balancing sebaceous function, as well as for providing antioxidants for the skin.

On the other hand, Pomegranate and Geranium can be used for enhancing skin health, regulating oil levels, and for diminishing the effects of aging.

Other uses of essential oils on the skin:

1. Bath.

Taking an essential oil bath can be a great way to tackle a variety of skin problems, especially those in areas that are difficult to reach, like the back. In order to get the most out of your bath, add up to 10 drops of oil to the water before getting in and be sure to stay in the bath long enough to reap the benefits - just be careful not to rush out of the bath as the oils can make it slippery.

2. Diffusers (Aromatherapy)

Aromatherapy is the practice of diffusing essential oils through the use of a diffuser to produce a therapeutic scent in a room [[1](https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbes-personal-shopper/2022/11/22/best-essential-oil-diffusers/)]. This method of using essential oils has been practiced for centuries [[2](https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/wellness-and-prevention/aromatherapy-do-essential-oils-really-work)].

There are various types of diffusers available in the market, such as nebulizing diffusers which provide a fast-acting aroma and maintain the purity of the essential oils [[3](https://www.verywellmind.com/best-essential-oil-diffusers-4802473)].

3. Massage and direct application

Essential oils can be very effective in treating skin disorders, and direct application is one of the simplest methods. To use essential oils topically, they must first be diluted with a carrier oil. Carrier oils are derived from a variety of sources, such as seeds, nuts, and pulps, to name a few. Not only do they offer beneficial qualities for the skin, but they also make the concentrated essential oils safer for topical application. Carrier oils can be blended together to target specific skin care needs, taking into account their particular properties, such as comedogenic and non-comedogenic, and absorption rate.

Extra: Some basic skin care mixtures

Combining essential oils is believed to be one of the most effective methods to obtain the synergistic benefits of essential oils and ultimately acquire the desired outcome. By mixing essential oils and carrier oils, you can craft customized, organic skincare items from the beginning.

I. To create a soothing day or night serum, put 30 ml (1 fluid ounce or 2 tablespoons) of the desired oil into a small dropper bottle. Then add 6 drops of either essential oil or blended oil. Seal the bottle tightly and shake until all ingredients are blended together. Take 4 drops of the serum and massage it gently into your freshly washed face till it is fully absorbed.

II. In order to make a moisturizing body oil, mix together 60 mL of carrier oil within a small bowl or container and incorporate 24 drops of essential oil or essential oil blend. Blend everything together and then massage into any dry skin areas of the body after showering or bathing.

III. Consider creating homemade facial cleansers and masks to treat your skin using essential oils. To make a face wash, combine 60 ml of hydrosol or floral water, 30 ml of aloe vera gel juice, 30 ml of vegetable glycerin, and 3-5 drops of essential oils in a face wash dispenser. Shake and use as needed for up to ten days, and store in the refrigerator when not in use.

For a facial mask, mix 30 g of cosmetic clay, a teaspoon of carrier oil, 2-3 drops of essential oil, and enough water to make a paste. Apply the paste with a facial brush, leave it on for 5-10 minutes, and rinse with warm water afterwards.

IV. For an added boost, add one drop of skin care product (such as serum, lotion, moisturizer, toner, shower cream, scrub, etc.) to 10ml of another skin care product to create a 0.5% blend.

A) For Dry Skin: Soothe, moisturize and soften dry skin with Rose Absolute at 0.5%.

B) For oily and acne-prone skin, regulate sebum levels with Tea Tree Essential Oil at 2%-5%, Lavender Essential Oil at 2%-5%, Lemongrass Essential Oil at 1%, and Lemon Essential Oil at 1%.

C) To combat wrinkles, fine lines and age spots, soften and smooth skin with Palmarosa Essential Oil at 2%-5%, Rose Absolute at 1%, and Frankincense Essential Oil at 1%.

D) To diminish acne scars, dark circles under the eyes, and other pigmentation, brighten and even skin tone with Frankincense Essential Oil at 1%, Ylang-Ylang Essential Oil at 1%, Lavender Essential Oil at 1%, and Turmeric Essential Oil at 0.5%-1%.

Precautions and safety measures when using and handling essential oils.

For optimal use of essential oils, it is imperative that users implement safe and responsible practices. This includes diluting them before use, performing skin tests before topical application, avoiding direct sunlight after use, and purchasing oils from ethical companies known for producing quality and pure products.

1. External use only

Essential oils from New Directions Aromatics are to be used only externally. Caution should be taken to avoid contact with the eyes, nostrils, ears, or other sensitive areas. Before using essential oils for therapeutic purposes, it is important to speak to a medical professional.

Phototoxic oils such as bergamot, grapefruit and lemon should not be exposed to direct sunlight for 12 hours after use.

3. Pregnancy and other health problems

Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should not use essential oils without consulting a physician. Those with existing health conditions, such as cancer, heart disease, skin diseases or allergies, hormonal disorders or epilepsy, should also get a doctor’s approval before using essential oils.
People taking prescription drugs, who have had major surgeries, or who are at risk of stroke, heart attack, or atherosclerosis should also seek medical advice before using essential oils.

4. Children and safety

It is important to ensure the safety of children, especially those under 7 years old, by keeping these oils secure and out of reach.

5. Always perform a skin test before using essential oils.

To ensure a safe experience with essential oils, it is recommended to complete a skin test before use. Dilute one drop of essential oil with four drops of carrier oil, and apply the combination onto a 10 cm square patch of non-sensitive skin. Alternatively, a patch test can be done by applying a small amount of the diluted essential oil onto the forearm or a similar area of the body, and waiting 24 hours to observe for any allergic reactions prior to using the essential oil on a larger area.

Some side effects of essential oils.

Pay close attention when using certain citrus essential oils such as lemon, grapefruit, lemongrass, and tangerine due to the potential risk of skin irritation when exposed to UV light. Additionally, be mindful of possible side effects of using essential oils which may include redness, rash, hives, burning, bleeding disorders, reduced healing speed, low blood pressure, dizziness, headache, nausea, diarrhea, cramps and palpitations. If an allergic reaction is experienced, stop usage immediately and seek medical attention to evaluate your condition and pursue the appropriate treatment.