The health benefits associated with essential oils are well known, but these oils also have properties that make them a great addition to any beauty routine. Here are some ways to incorporate them so that you can get all their natural benefits.
Tea tree
Tea-tree oil is so good at clearing up acne that many products have it as a main ingredient. It has antibacterial and drying properties that make it good for drying out blemishes and also preventing the spread of pimples. Use a cotton bud to apply tea-tree oil directly to a pimple and leave overnight. By morning the pimple should be smaller and the redness should have subsided.
Jasmine
As we get older, most of us long for the plump, supple skin of our youth. One way to improve skin’s elasticity without investing in expensive, chemical-laden products is to massage a little jasmine oil mixed with a carrier oil such as sweet almond oil, in a 50-50 ratio, into your skin after your evening wash. This oil has also been shown to help stretchmarks fade, so it can be applied in any affected areas as well. Bonus: it smells great!
Patchouli
This essential oil has astringent properties that not only encourage skin-cell turnover but also help to tighten skin that has started to sag. Patchouli also helps to combat oiliness and can provide relief from the symptoms of skin conditions such as psoriasis, eczema and dermatitis. It can also be applied by combining it with a carrier oil and massaging it into the skin.
Jojoba
Jojoba is definitely an all-rounder with plenty of uses. It’s rich in antioxidants, has antifungal and anti-inflammatory properties, and contains skin-beneficial fatty acids. It can be dabbed onto a cotton pad and used to remove makeup – it not only does so effectively but also treats skin at the same time.
Clove
There are plenty of products available on the shelves for people who want fuller lips but aren’t willing to go under the needle. A natural alternative to shop-bought formulas is clove oil. Mix it with a little honey, apply to the lips and leave for a minute or two, then rinse off. The results are immediate and it’s safe to use. Pucker up!
Lavender
Probably one of the most well-known and loved essential oils, lavender is known to help with stress and relaxation. When it comes to your skin, it helps to regenerate cells and reduce the appearance of sunspots and scars. It is suitable for all skin types and is best used as a toner, which can be made my mixing 20 drops of the oil with 100ml distilled water.
Peppermint
We all want minty-fresh breath and, rather than forking out money on mouthwash, you can make your own using peppermint oil. Combine two cups of distilled water, two teaspoons of bicarbonate of soda and five drops of peppermint oil. This will help to keep your teeth white and help to keep cavities at bay.
Photo: iStock/gorbachlena
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