How May Essential Oils Be Used in Facial Treatments?

Essential oils are concentrated extractions that come from distilling plants and flowers. Usually clear and odorless, these liquids are used to provide moisture and relief from many skin conditions. High in nutrients and vitamins, essential oils can be used to condition your hair and skin, as well as in cooking. As an alternative to store brand facial cleansers and moisturizers, these oils are generally safe to use to treat mild skin conditions such as dryness and sun damage. If you have any allergies, contact your doctor before using the essential oil.

History

Essentials oils have been used throughout history by everyone from the Egyptians to the Chinese for aromatherapeutic and healing purposes. Essential oils are used in aromatherapy to provide physical and psychological well being. The essential oil is usually heated in an oil burner that disperses the fragrance into the air. Today it is an integral part of ayurvedic medicine, also known as alternative medicine. Ayurveda uses essential oils to heal the body and are a source of energy for chakras, which are wheels that provide energy to different parts of your body. Essentials oils enhance your chakras, which then provides additional energy to your body.

Types

Of the many essential oils available, there are six that are widely used in facial cleansers and creams. These oils are jojoba, lanolin, sweet almond, olive, castor and grape seed. Many of these oils contain vitamin E, which is key to hair and skin care. Vitamin E helps your skin by providing alpha-tocopherol, a nutrient that helps carotenoids fight free radicals. Free radicals are created when chemicals bonds are weak in your body. If enough free radicals are formed, a chain reaction starts that results in extensive cell damage. Carotenoids fight free radicals and promote cell repair, which can improve sun-damaged skin. Sweet almond, jojoba, avocado and olive oils contain vitamin E, and work to condition the skin. Sweet almond oil contains the most nutrients, as it has vitamins A, B1, B6, B2 and E.

Almond, Olive and Avocado Oil Functions

Sweet almond oil is ideal for relieving dry and itchy skin, as it has five essential vitamins to provide moisture without build-up. As a skin moisturizer it provides up to 24 mg of vitamin E when applied after washing your face. To use, massage a dime-sized amount of the oil onto your face. Olive oil can be used as a facial cleanser by massaging a dime-sized amount onto your face, followed by laying a warm washcloth over your face until the cloth cools. After it cools, gently wipe the oil from your face and apply a light moisturizer. Avocado oil is useful as a moisturizer for sensitive skin because it provides rich moisture with ingredients vitamins K, D, B1 and B2. It is useful for those with aged or parched skin.

Grape Seed, Jojoba, Lanolin and Castor Oil Functions

Grape seed oil and jojoba oil are beneficial because they have anti-inflammatory properties, along with providing moisture and acne improvement. Grape seed oil also acts as an exfoliant to remove dead skin cells. To use, wash your face with a mild cleanser and massage a dime-sized amount of oil onto your face. When applied to a cotton ball or clean cloth, jojoba oil can be used to remove make-up. Lanolin oil is a thick essential oil that should be used sparingly, and is best used for treating sunburns by applying a thin layer to the affected skin. When used alone, castor oil can dry out your face. Castor oil softens your skin and has anti-inflammatory properties, but its high potency means you'll need to dilute it with another oil. Olive oil can be mixed with castor oil to reduce potency.

Misconceptions and Side Effects

Although they are called essential oils, they do not clog your pores or lead to acne breakouts. Many essential oils are not heavy and restore moisture without giving your face a greasy feel. Essential oils are natural, but can cause side effects if you are allergic. Some pure essential oils--ones that have not been diluted--can cause irritation. If you develop any allergic reaction from using the oils, discontinue use and consult your physician or dermatologist for allergy testing. Essential oils have healing properties, but should not be used to treat serious conditions.

References

• The Essential Oils Handbook; Jennie Harding; 2008
• Better Essential Oils