How Do I Reduce the Dark Skin From My Face Where I Shave?

How Do I Reduce the Dark Skin From My Face Where I Shave?
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Dark marks and patches of skin on the face on the face are fairly common, particularly for men who have heavy facial hair growth and shave on a frequent basis. While these embarrassing marks and patches can be unsightly, they are fairly easy to treat with natural treatment using essential oils and jojoba oil according to Julia Lawless, author of "The Encyclopedia of Essential Oils: The Complete Guide to the Use of Aromatic Oils in Aromatherapy, Herbalism, Health and Well-Being." The application of essential oils has not been clinically tested for safety or efficacy, so consult your physician if you have concerns about their use.

Step 1

Combine ½ tsp. lemon balm essential oil, ½ tsp.atlas cedar wood essential oil, ½ tsp. geranium essential oil, ½ tsp. grapefruit essential oil, ½ tsp. lime essential oil, ½ tsp. tea tree essential oil, ¼ tsp. rosewood essential oil, ¼ tsp. true lavender essential oil and 1 cup jojoba oil in a small amber-colored bottle with a tight-fitting lid.

Step 2

Cover the bottle and shake it for 10 seconds to combine the essential oils and jojoba oil before the first use.

Step 3

Pour a small amount of the mixture onto your clean hands. Gently massage the essential oil mixture onto the area of dark skin being treated. Allow the oil to stay on your skin for 10 to 15 minutes.

Step 4

Rinse your skin with lukewarm water. Wash with a gentle facial cleanser and pat your skin dry with a clean towel or disposable paper towel. Apply a light oil-free moisturizer to the area.

Step 5

Use this treatment once per day in the evening. Stop using the essential oil mixture if you notice redness, irritation or dry skin.

Step 6

Store unused portions of the essential oil mixture in a cool, dark and dry place for 60 days. Throw the mixture away after 60 days has passed.

Tips and Warnings

  • Therapeutic-grade essential oils are best for skin care purposes according to Susan Worwood, author of "Essential Aromatherapy: A Pocket Guide to Essential Oils and Aromatherapy." Therapeutic-grade essential oils can be purchased from most health food stores or online retailers that sell regular essential oils at a slightly higher price.
  • This treatment has not been approved by the FDA. If you are concerned about your safety , consult a qualified dermatologist or doctor before starting treatment.

Things You'll Need

  • ½ tsp. lemon balm essential oil
  • ½ tsp. atlas cedar wood essential oil
  • ½ tsp. geranium essential oil
  • ½ tsp. grapefruit essential oil
  • ½ tsp. lime essential oil
  • ½ tsp. tea tree essential oil
  • ¼ tsp. Rosewood essential oil
  • ¼ tsp. true lavender essential oil
  • 1 cup jojoba oil
  • Small amber bottle with a tight-fitting lid
  • Gentle facial cleanser
  • Clean towel or disposable paper towel
  • Light oil-free moisturizer

References

  • "The Encyclopedia of Essential Oils: The Complete Guide to the Use of Aromatic Oils in Aromatherapy, Herbalism, Health and Well-Being"; Julia Lawless; 1992
  • "Essential Aromatherapy: A Pocket Guide to Essential Oils and Aromatherapy"; Susan Worwood; 1995

Article reviewed by Lisa Dittrich Last updated on: Sep 14, 2010

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