About Essential Oil Benefits For Skin

By Alta Alexander


Today's consumers are becoming more savvy about the dangers ofsynthetic chemicals used in mainstream cosmetics and body care. As they shy away from harsh ingredients, they learn about essential oil benefits for skin and total well-being. These essential elements of herbs and flowers are the poster children for the mind and body wellness movement.

The epidermis - the scientific name for our skins - is the largest organ we have. It is our first line of defense, keeping vital fluids inside and environmental toxins and pathogens outside. Since there are germs on every surface we touch, toxins in our air and water, and chemicals involved in almost every daily activity, this shielding action is very important. Our outer layer also helps our bodies excrete toxins and waste products of metabolism through perspiration.

The epidermis stops many substances from being absorbed, but others get through. They can be both beneficial, like pure oils, or harmful, like chemicals in mainstream cosmetics and lotions. Some things, like products containing mineral oil, can interfere with the skin's natural functions, clogging pores and retarding perspiration or depleting important nutrients. Some dry the same skin they purport to moisturize.

Essential oils come from plants. Processing separates the oils from the rest of the botanical, using either steam processing, cold pressing, or chemical extraction (these are the only methods suitable for mass production). Most all-natural companies use one of the first two processes and avoid chemical extraction. The goal is to get pure, undamaged elixirs that concentrate the beneficial effects of the whole plant.

The list of healing, cleansing, toning, and purifying plants is a long one. Familiar ones include lavender, chamomile, and rose. Others are bergamot, frankincense, and helichyrsum. Manufacturers select the perfect combination to fight wrinkles, balance both dry and oily complexions, control acne, and soothe redness or uneven tones.

Aromatherapy is the science of using fragrances for their inherent healing properties. Although many know lavender and rose for their exquisite scent, fewer realize their emotional and physical health benefits. Over eons, people have studied and used fragrance for relaxation, stimulation, spiritual uplift, physical healing, and pure pleasure.

Aroma does more than smell good. It is almost unparalleled in stress reduction. Stress is a factor of modern life that contributes more than we know to the breakdown of mental and physical health. Relieving the constant burden of anxiety and tension is one of the best things we can do for ourselves. Relax in a warm, scented bath or sleep on a fragrant pillow and see the benefits on your face in the morning. Smooth on a cream or lotion that smells wonderful while doing good things for your skin - a win win every time.

Aromatherapists take the effects of fragrance many steps further, targeting particular emotional, mental, and physical problems and addressing them with specific oils. Lavender is both antiseptic and relaxing, eucalyptus purifying and invigorating, and rose good for the soul as well as for dry skin. Oils heal while evoking fond memories, keeping us in touch with nature, and helping make each day better. As they work on emotional centers in the brain and on the cells of our face, the magic of plants fills us with joy, peace, and optimism. Try essential oils for yourself and see how much they add to life.




About the Author:



No comments:

Post a Comment