Understanding Essential Oil Benefits For Skin

By Alta Alexander


Today's consumers are becoming more savvy about the dangers ofsynthetic chemicals used in mainstream cosmetics and body care. As they shy away from harsh ingredients, they learn about essential oil benefits for skin and total well-being. These essential elements of herbs and flowers are the poster children for the mind and body wellness movement.

The epidermis is the body's largest organ. It protects by keeping toxins out, a vital function in these days of air pollution, germs on every surface we touch, and an overload of chemicals in the environment. This outer layer seals in moisture, keeping us as hydrated as possible as we go about our daily routine. It also releases toxins through perspiration, and takes in oxygen that we need to live.

Most things do not get through this protective layer, but some harmful chemicals can. Others, like mineral oil, may deplete the skin of valuable vitamins and minerals, making it more vulnerable to the aging effects of wind, water, and pollution. Some petroleum-based cosmetics actually dry faces, lips, and hands, even as they promise to moisturize and protect.

Essential oils are found in many plants. These elements are separated from the rest of the botanical; the safest commercial ways are steam distillation and cold pressing. Chemical extraction is another method companies use to get oils in sufficient amounts for mass production, but this is generally considered less that ideal for purity and integrity of the oils.

The list of healing, cleansing, toning, and purifying plants is a long one. Familiar ones include lavender, chamomile, and rose. Others are bergamot, frankincense, and helichyrsum. Manufacturers select the perfect combination to fight wrinkles, balance both dry and oily complexions, control acne, and soothe redness or uneven tones.

The fragrance of plants is also concentrated in the oils, making them suitable for scenting body care products. Everyone loves scents, whether of rose or lavender or more exotic ones like patchouli and jasmine. Getting added benefits, as the oils soothe, tone, and clarify, is a bonus. For thousands of years, the uplifting and therapeutic effects of plant oils have been valued.

Aroma does more than smell good. It is almost unparalleled in stress reduction. Stress is a factor of modern life that contributes more than we know to the breakdown of mental and physical health. Relieving the constant burden of anxiety and tension is one of the best things we can do for ourselves. Relax in a warm, scented bath or sleep on a fragrant pillow and see the benefits on your face in the morning. Smooth on a cream or lotion that smells wonderful while doing good things for your skin - a win win every time.

Of course, there is also a whole science of aromatherapy, which touts the emotional balancing, cleansing, relaxing, and energizing properties of many flower essences and herbal extracts. As the oils act on emotional centers of the brain, they also work their physical magic of clearing the complexion, smoothing wrinkles, tightening pores and facial muscles, and sealing in moisture. Try a routine of facial and body care that effects the improvements you want while evoking fond memories, promoting peace and happiness, and making your whole world a nicer place.




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