Aromatherapy for Summer Skin Care
It’s summertime, the perfect time for a fresh“essential oils and skincare” blog article. If you haven’t read the article that I wrote back in June of 2020 “Essential Oils for Easy Skin Care”, definitely check it out!
Essential oils are a great addition to any skin care routine because they offer so many benefits for the skin.
Continuing the flower theme from my May blog article, let’s go a little deeper, learning about a few more essential oils that come from flowers, oils that are amazing for your skincare routine.
But first, don’t forget tea tree essential oil (Melaleuca alternifolia) for skincare. This essential oil doesn’t come from a flower, it comes from leaves, but it has powerful antimicrobial properties. Tea tree oil is often used to combat acne and blemishes. (However, it needs to be diluted before applying it to the skin to avoid irritation.) Tea tree mixes well with the floral essential oils. Tea tree oil is also helpful for other summertime skin concerns like bites, toenail/foot fungus and scrapes, really anytime you think to reach for a Neosporin-type product.
Geranium essential oil (Pelargonium graveolens): Geranium essential oil is often used for its balancing effects on the skin. It may help regulate sebum production, making it beneficial for combination skin types. Geranium oil is also known for its rejuvenating properties. Geranium oil can promote skin cell regeneration, tighten the skin, and reduce the appearance of wrinkles.
Helichrysum essential oil (Helichrysum italicum): Helichrysum essential oil is known for its skin regenerating properties. It can help promote cell growth, assist with repair of damaged skin, and improve the overall appearance of the skin. It is particularly useful for addressing scars, acne marks, and uneven skin tone. It contains antioxidants that help combat free radicals, which contribute to premature aging. Helichrysum essential oil also helps reduce the appearance of wrinkles, fine lines, and age spots, promoting a more youthful complexion. It is anti-inflammatory and soothing and calming to the skin. It can alleviate redness, irritation, and inflammation caused by conditions such as rosacea, eczema, and dermatitis. This oil has antibacterial properties that can aid in wound healing and preventing infections. It can be used on minor cuts, scrapes, and burns to promote faster recovery and reduce the risk of scarring.
Lavender essential oil (Lavandula angustifolia): This is one of the most popular and versatile essential oils. Known for its calming and healing properties, lavender essential oil can help soothe and balance the skin. It may also have antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects, making it useful for acne-prone or sensitive skin. Lavender oil is also beneficial for burns and sunburns, and helping to heal minor skin irritations.
Plus, the “official flower” of June - rose! 🌹
Rose essential oil (Rosa damascena): Rose essential oil is a popular ingredient in skincare due to its numerous benefits and pleasant aroma. Rose essential oil is hydrating and locks in moisture, making it ideal for dry or mature skin. It also contains antioxidants that help combat free radicals, which contribute to premature aging. Rose essential oil also helps reduce the appearance of wrinkles, fine lines and age spots, and tones the skin for a more youthful appearance. Despite being moisturizing, rose essential oil is also effective for balancing oily skin. It also helps regulate sebum production, which can reduce excess oiliness and prevent clogged pores that lead to acne. Rose essential oil has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help soothe irritated skin, reduce redness, and help alleviate conditions like eczema and rosacea.
Rosehip seed oil isn’t an essential oil. It is a fantastic oil for the skin though. I like to use it as a carrier oil. Rich in antioxidants and essential fatty acids, rosehip oil is known for its moisturizing and anti-aging properties. It can help improve skin texture, reduce the appearance of scars, and promote a more youthful complexion.
How can you add these oils to your skin care routines? It is really easy! Check out the super-simple recipes in my June 2020 blog article HERE. There are 3 super easy ideas for incorporating essential oils into your personal care routines for real benefit. Make a simple scrub, lotion or serum.
Ensure that you are using high-quality, pure essential oils. Look for organic and steam-distilled oils that retain the natural properties of the plant or flower, that are ethically sourced.
When using any essential oil in skincare, it's important to keep a few things in mind.
Always dilute them! Essential oils are highly concentrated and should always be diluted before applying them to the skin. Get my safety sheet for proper dilution for topical application HERE. A general guideline is to mix a few drops of essential oil with about a teaspoon of carrier oil like jojoba, almond, or coconut oil. Do a patch test before using an essential oil on your face to check for any possible adverse reactions or allergies.
Some individuals may be sensitive to essential oils. If you experience any irritation or discomfort, discontinue use, and consult a dermatologist. With any essential oil, it's always best to consult with a dermatologist or skincare professional before incorporating it into your skincare routine, especially if you have any specific skin concerns or conditions or take medications.
Here is a recipe for a refreshing face wash:
Summertime Floral 🌼 Face Wash
2/3 cup rosewater (Heritage Store has a good one you can buy at the natural food store)
1/3 cup castile soap (many natural grocery stores now have store brand castile soap)
1 tsp liquid carrier oil like rosehip seed oil, coconut oil or jojoba oil
1/4 tsp vegetable glycerin
4-5 drops of liquid vitamin E
10 drops of lavender essential oil
5 drops of tea tree essential oil
10 drops of rose essential oil
Mix and pour into a bottle (preferably glass) and give it a gentle shake before use as it can separate a little. Follow it with a mist of rose hydrosol and a natural moisturizer to complete the routine.