Essential Oils for Dry Skin

Essential Oils for Dry Skin
Photo Credit Oil and flowers image by Mykola Velychko from Fotolia.com

Essential oils are extracts taken from plants for their healing properties. Many essential oils give moisture to the skin. Try putting three to five drops of your chosen essential oil or a blend of oils into a tablespoon of a base oil to apply to your dry skin. For the base oil, almond, cocoa butter and olive oils can be especially beneficial to dry skin, says the "Essential Natural Health Bible." Check with your physician before deciding to use essential oils as a treatment for your skin. It is also advisable to check with a certified aromatherapist on the proper methods to use essential oils.

Lavender

The essential oil of lavender is widely used, as it has many benefits. One of these benefits is soothing dry skin. Lavender is a moisturizing oil that is healing to any type of skin, according to "The Aromatherapy Kit." Lavender has antibacterial qualities, which can be beneficial to many skin problems associated with dry skin. Whereas other oils need to be diluted in water or oil, lavender can be applied straight on the skin. However, it is a good idea to test your skin for allergic reaction first. Consult your physician before using lavender as a treatment method.

Bergamot

While bergamot is not the best choice for sensitive skin and increases your skin's sensitivity to the sun, it can be used effectively for dry skin. Bergamot is helpful to dry skin because of its anti-inflammatory, antiseptic and moisturizing properties. Bergamot should not be used as a treatment for any conditions before consulting your doctor.

German chamomile

Although German chamomile oil is expensive, it is claimed to be the best oil for the skin. Not to be confused with Roman chamomile, German chamomile can be identified by its blue hue. It is more effective at healing the skin than Roman chamomile, and can be used on the skin to calm inflammation and allergic reactions, advises "The Aromatherapy Kit." German chamomile should not replace conventional medicines before consulting a physician.

Sandalwood

Sandalwood has historically been used in skin care products because of its benefits to the skin. This is an especially moisturizing oil and is suggested for use on dry skin. Sandalwood also has been known to prevent inflammation. Sandalwood should not be used as a treatment for any conditions without consulting your doctor first.

Palmarosa

Palmarosa is effective in relieving many skin problems, including dry skin. This essential oil is particularly useful for dry skin because it helps to balance the water content of your skin and is moisturizing. It is also said to encourage growth of new skin cells and control the oil of the skin. Furthermore, palmarosa has antibacterial properties similar to lavender and bergamot. Check with your doctor before using palmarosa as a treatment method.

References

  • "The A-Z Guide to Healing with Essential Oils: Aromatherapy"; Shelagh Masline and Barbara Close; 1997
  • "The Essential Natural Health Bible"; Nerys Purchon; 2006
  • "The Aromatherapy Kit"; Charla Devereux; 1993

Article reviewed by GlennK Last updated on: Jul 11, 2010

Must see: Photo Galleries

Member Comments