Aromatherapy involves massaging or inhaling certain essential oils that are diluted in carrier oils. This alternative medicinal therapy has been used for pain relief, psychological and physical well being. When inhaled, the aroma of these essential oils is believed to stimulate the brain function. It can also be absorbed by the skin and carried through the circulatory system to lend a general well being. These essential oils have many health benefits for the skin as well, such as moisturizing, rejuvenating, etc.
What are Essential Oils?
Essential oils are distilled from the leaves, bark, flowers, and root of a tree or plant. Essential oils are different from the chemically created fragrant oils. These are very concentrated and potent. Therefore, these need to be mixed or diluted in carrier oils before using it on the body. These have some medicinal and cosmetic benefits.
Different Essential Oils
- Rose: Rose oil is very beneficial for dry and sensitive skin. It works as a tonic, soothes inflammation by constricting the dilated capillaries.
- Sandalwood: This oil is especially good on dry skin and eczematous conditions. It softens the skin. Mix it with cocoa butter and use it as a good neck cream.
- Lemon: Lemon oil removes dead skin. Pale-looking dull skin livens up after application of lemon oil. However, as lemon oil is phototoxic, exposure to sunlight after application should be avoided.
- Rosemary: Sagging skin gets a boost with this oil. It tones and tightens the skin. Pregnant ladies should avoid using this as it has a stimulating effect on the uterus.
- Lavender: Lavender oil has many benefits. It rejuvenates and promotes the production of new cells. It has a balancing effect on the sweat glands, thus good for both oily and dry skin. Apart from that, it has a healing effect on sunburns, burns, acne, eczema, etc.
- Ylang Ylang: This oil also has a balancing effect on the sweat glands, so can be used for both oil and dry skin.
- Geranium: Good for both problematic skin and mature skin. It works as an overall skin cleanser.
- Chamomile: This oil improves elasticity, strengthens the tissues, and reduces puffiness. Good skin cleanser. Helpful in cases of broken capillaries.
- Neroli: This oil is beneficial for people who have stretch marks or varicose veins. It helps regenerate skin cells and improve elasticity.
What are Carrier Oils?
Carrier oils are derived from seeds and nuts. They also provide therapeutic benefits to the skin. After mixing with the required essential oils, it should be left aside for 1 to 2 days, so that it blends with it well.
Different Carrier Oils
- Olive Oil: Olive oil is rich in antioxidant properties and contains various vitamins. It effectively removes stretch marks, scar, and eczema. It has anti-inflammatory benefits as well.
- Jojoba Oil: This oil has moisturizing qualities and can be effectively used as an eye-makeup remover. It balances the skin sebum, thus good for both oily and dry skin.
- Sweet Almond Oil: Has antibacterial properties, fights wrinkles, good makeup remover and moisturizer.
- Avocado Oil: Age spots, sun damage, and scars make a quick exit by regular application of this. It increases the collagen in the skin. It rejuvenates and regenerates the skin.
Essential oils lift your spirits, apart from doing the regular skin care routines such as moisturizing, toning, and rejuvenating. Stocking some essential oils and soaps seems a wise thing to do, so that when you are "feeling the blue", you can lift your spirits up with these "very essential oils."
