Sagging skin can result from the natural process of aging or from weight loss. The culprit is collagen, a connective protein throughout the body which helps determine the elasticity of body tissue. Declining collagen can lead to a loss of skin elasticity. The practice of aromatherapy, applying essential oils topically for therapeutic benefit, can both support collagen and prevent collagen loss.
Retinoids
While the skin's collagen cannot be completely replaced, chemicals can be introduced which aid collagen formation. According to the "Journal of Drugs in Dermatology" (2009), retinoids are the most clearly proven class of chemicals which can prevent collagen loss and build new collagen. Retinoids are a group of chemicals similar to Vitamin A which help instigate skin cell growth. However, retinoids have side effects, including toxicity at high doses.
Rosehip Seed Oil
Rosehip seed oil is an essential oil which contains retinal, a naturally occurring form of Vitamin A and a natural alternative to retinoids. Rosehip seed oil is created from the crushed seeds of a wild rose bush. In addition to retinals, the oil is high in Vitamin C, which also aids in collagen formation. According to Jeanne Rose, president emeritus of the National Association of Holistic Aromatherapy and an herbalist for forty years, rosehip seed oil can help reduce wrinkles and repair damaged skin. The oil is readily absorbed and can be used sparingly. However, rosehip seed oil can increase skin phototoxicity (sensitivity to the sun's rays), leading to concerns of skin damage and skin cancer. Individuals using rosehip seed oil should use sunscreen at all times and avoid excessive skin exposure.
Carrot Seed Oil
Like rosehip seed oil, carrot seed oil is also high in beta-carotene and Vitamin A and is able to assist with collagen formation. Carrot seed oil is also a detoxifier, which can assist the digestive system, promoting detoxification. Sagging skin can create a challenge for the circulatory system, leading to loose skin which is visibly dull or patchy. Carrot seed oil can be particularly useful for improving the luminosity of skin.
Geranium Oil
Geranium oil stimulates the thyroid, which can increase weight loss, leading to tighter skin, according to Jeanne Rose. The oil also helps stimulate the lymphatic system, helping to flush excess water from the tissues, leading to an improved skin tone. Geranium oil may be less expensive than rose oil. Moreover, research in the scientific journal Microbios (1996) found that geranium oil had significant antibacterial properties, which by association can promote clearer skin and skin healing.
Aromatherapy Applications
Undiluted essential oils should never be applied directly to the skin. Adults may place a few drops of the recommended essential oils into the bath water. However, pregnant women and children should avoid this approach. For topical applications, create an essential oil blend with up to 10 drops of essential oil per 20 ml of a carrier oil such as olive or grapeseed oil. (When blending a mixture for children, use 2 drops of essential oil per 20 ml.) Store in an airtight glass bottle. Be sure to prevent contamination of the mixture, and pour a small amount into a clean bowl before applying to the body.
Precautions
Essential oils may have interactions with medications or produce other individual side effects. Pregnant women should exercise extreme caution when using essential oils, as research into the effects on the fetus is limited. Individuals may do well to seek out qualified guidance before using essential oil and aromatherapy products.
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