Essential oils are highly concentrated pure essences extracted from plants, according to Aromaweb.com. Aromatherapists use essential oils to ease many psychological and physical conditions, including various types of skin problems such as acne, dry skin, fungal infections and minor wounds. Dilute all essential oils before using on skin, as they can be extremely irritating in pure form. Always check with your physician before using essential oils.
Lavender
Lavender essential oil comes from the flowers of Lavandula. Herbalists use the oil to treat skin conditions such as eczema, acne and fungal infections, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. A study performed in 2005 by the Department of Public Health at the University La Sapienza in Rome found preliminary evidence that suggests lavender has antifungal properties that are effective against Candida albicans, a type of yeast infection.
Rose
In "Aromatherapy: A Holistic Guide," aromatherapist and esthetician Ann Berwick explains that it takes approximately 10 pounds of roses to extract 1 pound of rose oil. The oil is one of the more expensive essential oils, but it is very beneficial as a general skin tonic. Rose oil is also good for sensitive and aging skin. It has astringent properties that may help mend broken capillaries and improve overall skin condition, according to Berwick.
Lemon
Lemon oil is extracted from the peels of the green fruit, which contain more essential oils than the ripe peels, says Berwick. Lemon's bleaching action is used to lighten dark patches and help tighten aging skin. It is potentially beneficial to acne and skin infections. Berwick suggests using it in face lotions and massage oils. Lemon oil may increase sun sensitivity, so avoid direct sunlight or apply a strong sunscreen when using this oil.
Tea Tree
Tea tree oil comes from the leaves of the Melaleuca alternifolia, found primarily in Australia. Skin benefits include the potential treatment of acne and fungal infections such as athlete's foot, suggests the Mayo Clinic. A study performed by the Department of Dermatology at the Isfahan University of Medical Sciences in Iran found tea tree oil to be three to five times more effective at treating acne than a placebo. The results were published in the January 2007 issue of the Indian Journal of Dermatology, Venereology and Leprology. Use externally only; tea tree oil is potentially toxic when taken internally.
German Chamomile
German chamomile comes from Matricaria chamomilla, a plant found throughout Eastern Europe and France. It is very useful for treating dry, irritated, flaking skin conditions, such as eczema and psoriasis, according to Esoteric Oils. German chamomile may also speed wound healing time. Roman Chamomile is in the same family but has different therapeutic properties.
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