The concentrated extracts of plants and flowers, the life force and the “essence” of the plant, are the oils. They are the plants color and smell. They have powerful health benefits. However, they are very strong and concentrated and must be heavily diluted, ideally into what we call “carrier oils,” like apricot oil, grape seed oil, avocado oil or olive oil.
You don’t need to be an expert when choosing the oil, but doing a little research can be a good idea. Become more knowledgeable with what you are putting on your skin. Each oil can serve a different function, besides smelling good.
An important note: Synthetic oils may smell the same as an essential oil, however it won’t produce the same effect. Know what you are buying.
Lavender: The well-known, feminine aroma is obtained by steam distillation of both the flowers and the stalks. Lavender is the oil most associated with healing skin irritations as it stimulates the cells of injured skin allowing it to heal quickly and smoothly.
Rosehip: This oil is known to help hair rejuvenation. Hot weather, sun, and salt from the beach dry out our hair, leaving us in despair. Rosehip oil is going to become your best friend. First, warm oil in a small bowl. Then, massage through your hair, especially on dry brittle ends. Leave on for one hour. After washing, you’ll find softness back as well as added bounce and shine.
Rosehip for Skin: This oil is found in many skin treatment products. It contains a high amount of essential fatty acids such as Omega 3 and Omega 6. It puts moisture back into your skin. It also contains vitamin A, creating that fresh facial glow. This oil is used for healing scars and making them less prone to breakage. Try massaging into your nails once a week.
Rosehip for Anti-aging: Unfortunately, aging comes with some challenges – wrinkles, discoloration, and spots. We love the sun, even though it causes a decrease in collagen. Rosehip oil contains vitamins and plenty of antioxidants which can counteract that decrease, as well as remove redness and skin irritation.
Frankincense: This essential oil can help with pigmentation. When used in skin care, frankincense has a toning and anti-inflammatory effect that is especially beneficial for mature and dry skin types. In addition, when used in a diffuser, its earthy, grounding aroma enhances focus and concentration during meditation and relaxation.
Ylang Ylang: Used for treating oily skin, as it helps stimulate cell growth to fight effects. It can be added to a facial massage to benefit from it’s moisturizing and balancing properties.
Roman Chamomile: This wonderfully soothing essence is taken from the freshly dried flowers of the common herb. In skin care, its well-known anti-inflammatory properties make this oil ideal for use in a steam facial or in a cold compress to soothe dry, irritated skin. It is also useful in the treatment of acne.
Essential oils can be added to your moisturizer. Do not add more than 2% of the total amount of moisturizer or lotion, and absolutely no more than 1% if your skin is sensitive. If the moisturizer is a 1 oz. size, you would add about one or two drops per jar or bottle. This doesn’t sound like much, but it is so powerful that it is all you need.
Here is a recipe to create your own moisturizing face mist: Add geranium oil to mineral water in a spray bottle and mist throughout the day. Mineral water provides a nice PH balance for our skin. Adding just a few drops can be very beneficial for hydrating dry skin. Feel free to add a few drops of lavender oil to it as well.