5 Natural Skin Oils for a Fabulous Face that Glows
We all know that beauty is skin deep, and what you eat is just as important as what goes onto your face. However, this shouldn’t prevent you from seeking purity in your topical treatments. You may have already bought into the buzz of coconut oil and argan oil, and for good reason, but don’t let them cast a shadow over the lesser-known crowd of natural skin oils. There are many other oils out there that do as much, if not more, for your complexion. The following five natural skin oils are exactly what over-the-counter products can’t possibly live up to.
1. Tea Tree Oil
Those suffering from acne have probably already seen tea tree oil hanging out in over-the-counter anti-acne treatments. Studies show that topical use of 5-percent tea tree oil is effective in treating mild to moderate acne. Tea tree oil possesses anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial and anti-fungal attributes, keeping the surface of your facial skin clear of bacteria and free of acne.
2. Grapeseed Oil
Grapeseed oil can be a valuable part of the human diet. The oil is also excellent for oily skin, because it helps to regulate natural oil production. Packed with monounsaturated fatty acids and polyunsaturated fatty acids, including linoleic acid, oleic acid, and paretic acid, grapeseed oil is also full of antioxidants. In fact, grape seeds are known for the antioxidant proanthocyanidin, which is 20 times stronger than vitamin E and 50 times stronger than vitamin C. Grapeseed oil also protects against UV damage. Look at grapeseed oil as a topical treatment that moisturizes while still keeping skin oils in check, so you have a clear complexion without the greasy glow.
3. Chamomile Oil
Just like chamomile tea relaxes your mood and sets you up for a good night’s sleep, chamomile oil relaxes your skin. It is especially useful for sensitive skin. The oil is packed with active ingredients, including flavanoids apigenin, luteolin, and quercetin as well as volatile oils alpha-bisabolol and matricin. These compounds work together to reduce inflammation, ease facial skin muscles, and infuse the skin with anti-aging antioxidants. Because it is delicate, chamomile oil is fit for topical application on babies. [Editor’s note: chamomile is not suited for people who suffer from ragweed allergies as it can trigger the same reactions.]
4. Rose Hip Oil
If you experience discoloration, reach for rose hip oil. Rose hip oil is derived from a native rose plant that grows in Siberian Russia. It is particularly high in vitamin E, linoleic acid, essential fatty acids, vitamin C, and vitamin A. Rose hip oil treats dry skin, eczema, wrinkles, age spots, hyper pigmentation, scars, and skin burns. Especially in the summer months, rosehip oil helps to counter the effects of sun damage.
5. Olive Oil
If you have very dry skin, olive oil is perfect for you. It is thicker than the other oils on the list and leaves behind a greasy-looking skin surface, so it may be best to apply at night. Olive oil has a great balance of fatty acids and is high in nutritional value. It has been shown to effectively reduce UVB-induced skin tumors due to its antioxidant effects. Reach for olive oil labeled as “extra-virgin” and “cold pressed.”
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