Oils for Skin Care
7:56 AM Posted by jo
Antiseptic Properties
Cajuput, eucalyptus, lemon, myrtle, niaouli, tea tree, lavender and myrrh are either anti-fungal, bactericidal or antiseptic. They historically been used for treating acne and other common skin infections.
Stimulating Growth of New Cells
This refers to cytophylactic property of essential oils, which helps to increase the speed at which the skin cells in the germinative layer of the skin reproduce. This will promote rapid healing of wounds and burns, and eliminate scarring. The ability to eliminate scarring is referred to as cicatrisant action.
Oils historically used to maintain a healthy and youthful complexion, minimize stretch marks and scarring are:
Carrot seed, lavender, everlasting, myrrh, frankincense, neroli, patchouli and yarrow.
Circulatory Stimulants
Rubefacient essential oils such as ginger, black pepper and rosemary help increase circulation and may be used to assist the skin’s body temperature regulation. This is useful for general detoxification of congested skin for improving dull complexions.
Essential oils like cypress, German Chamomile, rose and geranium have historically been useful for treatment of spider veins and varicose veins. They increase the micro-circulation in the skin and strengthen the capillaries.
Eliminating Waste
Up to 25% of the body’s waste products are eliminated via the skin. Problems with elimination of the wastes will place burden on the kidneys, lungs and bowels. If these organs are not functioning properly the skin will take over some their work. This can give rise to boils, congested skin, rashes and other skin problems.
According to Battaglia, essential oils known as lymphatic stimulants or hepatics such as grapefruit, sweet orange, peppermint, rosemary, carrot seed may assist the skin.
According to Battaglia, essential oils that stimulate the kidneys such as juniper and fennel, and essential oils that increase the perspiration such as ginger may also assist the skin.
Inflammation
The anti-inflammatory properties of German Chamomile have been documented. Other oils with anti-inflammatory properties are lavender, neroli, everlasting, and yarrow.
According to Battaglia, german Chamomile and everlasting also have anti-allergenic properties and have been shown to be effective in the treatment of eczema and dermatitis.
Regulating Sebum Production
Sebum is produced by the oil glands to keep the skin supple. Geranium, palmarosa and rosewood may be used to balance the secretion of the glands.
Reducing the Impact of Emotional Stress
The sensory nerves in the skin respond to the environment. The skin reflects the emotional state.
Neroli and lavender are used to soothe and calm not only the skin, but also the mind.
Anger and frustration affects the liver. This may lead to poorly assimilated food, often leading to dry skin. Rose ylang ylang,and rosemary assist in correcting the imbalance of the mind-body relationship. Rose, sandalwood and chamomile address the skin directly.
A dehydrated skin may indicate a dehydrated body. Sandalwood and geranium may be used to assist dehydrated skin.
Not sure how to apply the oils? Visit these pages to learn how to apply the oils:
Before you leave:
I recommend that you always perform a skin patch test when you try a new oil.
Check out my safety page to make sure you are aware of any contrindications before you use essential oils. Some oils are not suitable when suffering from certain conditions. Also, Read this Before You Start Using Essential oils. Some oils should not be applied prior to sun exposure so make sure you check this list before spending time in the sun.
Not sure how to apply the oils? Visit these pages to learn how to apply the oils:
- Topical Application
- Inhaling Essential Oils
- Are You Diffusing the Oils Correctly?
- How to Dilute Essential Oils
- Vita Flex Technique
If you're new to essential oils you might want to check out my Getting Started Guide.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
