Top 5 Essential Oils for Skincare

I’m obsessed with essential oils…really…I mean, what can you not do with them? They’re good for headaches, skincare, muscle aches, colds…on and on. Don’t get me wrong- I still trust my BHA, AHA, retinol and all, but I like how essential oils can get the same jobs done, but without the side effects.  Here are the top 5 essential oils that I always keep handy:

Tea Tree (Melaleuca oil) is one of the most well known essential oil out there. It is taken from the leaves of the Melaleuca alternifolia, which is native to Southeast Queensland and the Northeast coast of New South Wales, Australia. Tea tree oil is antibacterial and is great for treating acne and skin irritations. It also helps regulate oil production. You can apply it straight out of the bottle…a little goes a long way.

Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) essential oil is extracted mostly from the flowers of the lavender plant, primarily through steam distillation. Lavender oil is also great for acne, among other things. It inhibits the bacteria that causes the initial infection, helps to regulate over-excretion of sebum, and can also reduce the signs of scarring after the acne has begun to heal. Adding a small amount of lavender essential oil to other skin creams or ointments can greatly increase the potential for relief and healing.

Carrot Seed (Daucus Carota) essential oil is extracted by steam distillation from the dried seeds and plants of wild carrots. It is rich in Carotene and Vitamin A, making it an excellent antioxidant. It will help to fade scars, improve wrinkles and smooth out aging skin.

Geranium (Pelargonium Odorantissimum) essential oil is extracted through steam distillation of stems and leaves of the Geranium plant. It helps regulate oil production and reduces acne breakouts. It also helps to tighten skin and improve elasticity. Also known for healing bruises, burns, cuts, eczema, ringworm and other skin conditions.

Last, but not the least is Lemon (Citrus limon) essential oil. It is extracted from the fresh fruit peel by cold expression. It takes about 3000 lemons to make one kilo of essential oil. It is astringent and detoxifying, making it a good remedy for dull and sagging skin. It also helps tone the skin and reduce the appearance of pores.

Basic guidelines before using essential oils:

Essential oils should be diluted in a carrier oil such as almond, jojoba or sesame to a maximum of 5%. Basically, since 1ml is 20 drops, for every 1 ml of carrier oil, you would add 1 drop of essential oil. Some oils like Tea Tree can be used straight from the bottle. When it comes to essential oils, a little goes a long way. Always do a patch test before trying a new oil. What essential oils do you guys swear by?