Have you ever wondered how ancient queens managed to maintain their beauty without any of the plethoras of cosmetic products we have today at their disposal? Well, it’s owing to the ancient art of extracting essential oils from natural sources of course!
So if you’re looking for natural ways to keep your skin healthy, you need to look no further than these essential oils. The likes of Queen Sheba may have used them once upon a time, but you don’t need to be royalty to be able to afford them today! But before we start discussing the best natural oils for you to make use of, you need to understand the difference between refined oils and cold-pressed oils.
Refined and cold pressed oils
Natural oils are of two types, based on the method of extraction. The natural method is the cold pressed oils where the nuts or seeds of plants are pressed to squeeze the oil out of them. They are natural, pure and maintain the original composition of the natural plant. On the other hand, refined oils are heated, and as a result, their natural chemical composition is altered. In addition, other preservatives may be added to keep the oil fresh. Considering the fact that refining changes the chemical constituents of the natural oil, experts generally advocate the use of cold pressed oil.
And now, learn about ten natural oils that are great for your skin’s health:
Coconut oil
One of the most easily available and affordable oils, coconut oil help in keeping the skin moisturized; preventing water loss, and promoting hydration of the skin. Fatty acids, one of the main constituents of coconut oil, nourishes the skin. Furthermore, coconut oil can also be used for cooking.
Almond oil
Another natural moisturizer is the almond oil. Prepared from almonds, an important feature of almond oil is that it is less allergic compared to other natural oils, which makes it very suitable for treating skin diseases.
Argan oil
Made from the kernels of the Argan tree, Argan oil is rich in vitamin E, essential fatty acids, and proteins. If used regularly, it helps maintain healthy skin.
Olive oil
Olive oil is rich in antifungal constituents, which gives it anti-microbial properties. It is also used as an anti-aging tool and is a regular component in anti-aging products. Other benefits include treating itchy scalp and dandruff.
Jojoba oil
Jojoba oil acts as a skin softener and helps in keeping hair strong when it is used regularly.
Grape seed oil
Grape seeds contain polyphenols, that have an antioxidant effect that acts against inflammation. It also restores collagen, which helps as an anti-aging principle, in addition to being a skin softener.
Marula oil
Extracted from the nuts of the Marula tree found in Africa, oil from Marula is useful in treating acne and is a powerful anti-microbial. A distinguishing feature of Marula oil is that it doesn’t clog pores, and it balances the skin’s oil production.
Rosehip seed oil
Rich in vitamins C and E, Rosehip seed oil is a powerful antioxidant. It protects you from skin damage and is an effective anti-aging agent. It also contains vitamin A, which is very beneficial for the skin.
Sesame seed oil
Sesame seed oil, when cold pressed, is rich in fatty acids, namely oleic acid, stearic acid, palmitic and linoleic acid. When applied over skin and scrubbed and massaged softly, it increases circulation and keeps the skin supple and soft. It also fights cellulite.
Lemon balm essential oil
Lemon balm oil contains powerful antioxidants caffeine and ferulic acid – which aid in delaying aging. It also protects the skin from sun’s rays and can be used under your sunscreen.
Though there are many numbers of cosmetics available that can perform many of the functions mentioned above, essential oils supersede them all due to their natural healing properties. You must select a suitable natural oil for use, depending on what you need it for. It is also important that you first make sure you do not have an allergy to any particular plant product before you use any of these. Use these oils at least twice or thrice a week, for the best results.
