While skin care manufacturers continually pour millions of dollars into developing and advertising new products, many people find that essential oils are a more natural and more effective way to keep skin healthy. Essential oils should not be applied directly to the skin, as they may cause irritation, but mixed with milder carrier oils, they can reduce the signs of aging and help keep your skin healthy and fresh. Learn more about the top essential oils for facial use.
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Juniper. Juniper oil is derived through the steam distillation of the needles, wood and fruit of the juniper tree. Juniper oil can be used in a number of different ways and is an effective facial skin tonic. According to Organic Facts, juniper oil acts as an astringent; it tightens muscles and gives a feeling of firmness, fitness and youth. Juniper oil's antiseptic properties can also kill bacteria, helping to prevent infection in acne sufferers.
Frankincense. Frankincense oil is recognized for its antiaging properties. This essential oil has been used as a cosmetic since ancient Egyptian times and continues to be popular to this day. Frankincense can help prevent and reduce wrinkles, smoothing and refining the appearance of the skin. It can also promote the growth of firm, new skin cells and rejuvenates the skin.
Rosemary. Rosemary is a popular herb used during cooking, particularly with meat dishes. Rosemary oil is a versatile essential oil, with a number of different properties. Massaged into the face, rosemary oil can help reduce the symptoms of dry skin. It can also rejuvenate mature skin and improve circulation. Rosemary's mild antiseptic properties can also prevent infection.
Neem. Oil from the seed or fruit of the neem tree has been used in traditional Indian medicine for many years. Neem oil is an effective treatment for many skin conditions and can be used as an ingredient in soap to help treat oily or greasy skin. Neem oil can also soothe and reduce the symptoms of eczema and acne.
Lavender. The essential oil of lavender has long been recognized for its calming properties, and many people use the oil to scent bed linens to help cure insomnia. A pleasant, relaxing night's sleep alone is certainly enough to improve the health of facial skin, but the oil also has other uses. Lavender oil can be used to treat eczema and acne, and can be applied directly to the skin to treat insect bites and stings.
