Essential oils for Anti-Aging
Aging is a natural process and though we should embrace it, premature aging isnt easy to accept. Aging skin loses its elasticity and suppleness and starts forming wrinkles and fine lines.
Apart from sun damage, other factors which contribute to aging include toxic beauty products, stress, and excessive alcohol consumption. They may not seem to be a big deal but in the long run they can take toll on the skin and leave it looking dull and mature.
When our skin starts to age, we swear by tons of face creams and lotions to get flawless skin. However we overlook the fact that many of our skincare products may actually be the source of those damaging toxins.
How about turning to nature for a solution and switching over to all-natural and organic skincare? Its time to bid adieu to those face cream and lotions which have been occupying space in your beauty cabinet and make natural essential oils part of your beauty regime. These botanical wonders are just what you need to combat your skin problems and nourish your skin.
WHAT CAUSES PREMATURE SKIN AGING
Age is not the only reason for aging skin. Sometimes even at young age, signs of skin aging become apparent and this happens due to several factors:
- Bad habits like smoking, alcohol consumption and unhealthy diet speeds up aging process
- Sun Exposure result in exposure to UV light and free radicals accelerate the formation of age spots
- Environmental factors like dry weather lead to dry skin resulting in fine lines
- Toxic beauty products dries out skin
- Hormonal changes may also signal increased dryness and skin problems
- Stressful lifestyle can trigger inflammation which can age body faster
WHY ESSENTIAL OILS
Essential oils are concentrated essences of plants derived through steam distillation and contains both the aroma and health benefits of the plants they are extracted from. They are extracted from, plant parts like bark, flowers, leaves, rinds, roots and seeds of fruits and plants.
As we age, our skin loses moisture and elasticity, which in turn causes dryness, wrinkles and fine lines. Essential oils not only help in hydrating the skin, but they are also rich in antioxidants and fight free radical damage thereby preventing further aging. Some oils are known to seal moisture in the skin, thereby imparting glowing, plumped and refreshing look.
BEST ANTI-AGING ESSENTIAL OILS
Frankincense oil contains powerful antioxidants which can help prevent premature aging. It is also known to improve the appearance of pores, wrinkles and even scars. The astringent properties of this oil makes it ideal for healing and anti-aging. Frankincense oil also promotes growth of new skin cells, evens skin tone and protects them from damage. It is best suited for oily or mature skin.
Sandawood oil has been used for aging skin since ancient times. It is known for its deeply soothing properties, along with antiseptic and disinfectant properties which helps to reduce any imperfections on the skin. It contains high amount of sesquiterpene, a hormone which boosts skin cell regeneration and repair. Sandalwood oil can also help soothe damaged or irritated skin, and fade scars, lines and wrinkles. Best suited for dry or mature skin.
One of the best oils for mature skin is this gorgeous and precious Rose Essential oil. It is wonderful for promoting and retaining natural moisture and is therefore very effective in delivering moisture to mature skin. It is an ideal skin rejuvenator which promotes production of new skin cells and helps in reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Best suited for dry or mature skin.
Geranium oil was used by ancient Egyptians for promoting beautiful and glowing skin. It is suitable for all skin types and can help minimize the appearance of wrinkles by tightening skin and slowing down the effects of aging. The anti-inflammatory properties help moisturize skin and promotes skin renewal.
Carrot seed oil is best known for its sun protection ability. Combining skin mending Vitamin A with collagen boosting Vitamin C and moisturising Vitamin E, Carrot Seed Oil helps to smoothen lines and repairs sun damage. It is excellent in balancing oil production and is an effective anti-aging skin acre ingredient.
Other essential oils which are helpful in reducing signs of aging are Lavender Essential Oil, Rosemary Essential oil, Myrrh Essential Oil and Lemon Essential Oil.
BEST CARRIER OILS FOR AGING
Rosehip oil is one of the best oils for delicate and sensitive skin and helps reduce wrinkles and age spots. It is light in texture and is easily absorbed by skin. It is a rich source of essential fatty acids which help fight dryness and helps in reducing appearance of fine lines. Rosehip oil is one of the richest plant sources of Vitamin C which aids in collagen production, giving healthy and supple skin.
Pomegranate seed oil contains Punicic acid, an omega-5 fatty acid which helps delay aging caused by ultraviolet rays. The anti-aging properties of this oil helps to maintain skin elasticity and promotes cell regeneration. Pomegranate oil is excellent at protecting against sun damage and demonstrates natural SPF of eight making it great natural sunscreen ingredient.
Argan oil can reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines by improving skin elasticity and reduce drying effects on skin. Argan oil comprises of 80% fatty acids which are essential for hydrating skin, restoring skin elasticity and improving line and wrinkles. It also contains Vitamin E which makes skin healthier and plumper.
Avocado oil is an excellent oil as it is easily absorbed and penetrates deep in the skin. It has shown significant increase in the production of collagen which provides skin its natural structure. It contains high amount of sterolins which are known to reduce sun/age spots and help to heal scar tissue. The anti-aging properties of avocado oil provide protection against free radicals and harmful UV rays. It is a wonderful source of Vitamin A and E and helps to moisturize skin.
Jojoba is one of the most hydrating carrier oils. Jojoba oil is closest in construction to the natural sebum produced by our skin and therefore moisturize our skin when it stops producing it. It also keeps levels of oil balanced in skin by removing sticky build-up or excess oil. It stimulates production of collagen which gives strength to our skin. It is a perfect moisturizer and can slow down the appearance of aging and help fade fine lines and wrinkles. It gives skin the boost it needs to remain plump and firm as time goes by.
Other carrier oils good for anti-aging include Evening Primrose oil, Borage oil and Grape seed oil.
RISK & SIDE EFFECTS
- Essential oils are only for external use and should never be ingested
- Store essential oils out of reach of children and store them apart from other products. Some essential oils can be fatal to pets and therefore always research before using them
- Essential oils must ALWAYS be diluted before applying on skin as they are highly concentrated as can cause irritation. You can dilute them in carrier oil of your choice and the max concentration of essential oils should be 3-4%
- Always do a patch test before applying on larger areas of skin
- Do not apply Lemon Oil during the day if you are going out in the skin as it can cause skin sensitivity and irritation.
- It is unclear what effects essential oils have on pregnant and breastfeeding women. While some consider them safe, many doctors advice pregnant women to avoid use of essential oils
- Always buy pure essential oils and stay away from fake counterparts as they wont contain same therapeutic benefits
Takeaway
Essential oils are a wonderful addition to your beauty regime. They can slow down the skin aging process by promoting skin repair. Factors like pollution, UV damage, dryness, and loss of the skin’s natural barrier often speed up the aging process of your skin. It is important to stay hydrated, regularly use sunscreen, avoid excessive sun exposure and minimize exposure to environmental stresses. Follow a healthy balanced diet which can encourage graceful aging.
Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is for informational and educational purposes. I am not a medical professional and highly recommend consulting a doctor before using essential oils as part of any medical treatment.
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Rosehip oil is such a wonderful oil. Lovely article on anti aging.