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sales@rangeproducts.com.au The molecules of essential oils are very small and, once added to a carrier oil and applied to the skin, pass easily into the body through the fatty tissue. Alternatively they can be inhaled through evaporation and enter the body via cells lining the nasal passages. The essential oil molecules then send messages directly to the brain and can assist both the physical and psychological wellbeing. Each essential oil has it’s own unique chemical composition and it’s own collection of beneficial properties.
Month: November 2016
Phototoxic or Photosensitising oils are essential oils which can react with the UV rays in sunlight and cause a reaction on the skin. They make the skin more susceptible to UV radiation and can cause redness, irritation, skin cell damage and can also increase the risk of skin cancer. It is therefore important that these essential oils are avoided when making sun screen, insect repellent, or a body lotion that is going to be applied to the skin before being exposed to the sunlight.
Here is a list of essential oils that are considered photosensitising:
Angelica
Cumin
Bergamot (unless you use FCF Bergamot which is free from Bergaptene)
Cold pressed Lemon
Cold pressed Bitter Orange
Cold pressed Grapefruit
Cold pressed Lime
Verbena
Tagetes
Essential oils are very concentrated and some can be very harsh when put directly on the skin without a carrier oil. They can take varnish off furniture or be used for cleaning. There are only a couple that are mild enough to be used directly on the skin and most of them can either be very drying or can cause irritation or redness. We always recommend that you put a couple of drops into a spoon of carrier oil such as Almond oil before applying it to the skin to prevent a reaction. If you do spill pure essential oil onto your skin it is important that you don’t attempt to wash it off straight away as water will often increase the discomfort. First, apply any vegetable carrier oil. Then after a couple of minutes you can apply soap to act as a detergent before finally rinsing with water.
For centuries face packs or masks have been used to balance the skin, stimulate blood circulation, cleanse and moisturise. They are most effective when the skin is moist and warm before application.
Clays are a popular ingredient in face masks as they draw out impurities and encourage inflamed tissues to heal. Green Clay is the most common one used and is an especially good option for oily or acneous skin.
Live, natural, full fat yoghurt is also an effective ingredient in face masks as the lactic acid it contains, due to its fermentation, is similar to the skin’s own acid and can help to balance the skin. It is especially beneficial to either very dry or very oily skin.
Add 1teaspoon of green clay to 1/4 cup of yoghurt. Leave on for about 10mins, rinse off with warm water. Then a little cool water. Allow the skin to settle for at least 30mins before applying any moisturiser or oil.
A skin tonic is an excellent way to balance, refresh and invigorate. To make 100ml start with a teaspoon of Apple Cider Vinegar which helps to restore the skin’s acid mantle, a fine, acidic layer on the surface of the skin which acts as a barrier and protects us from bacteria and viruses. When it is disrupted it can cause dryness and irritation.Then add a few drops of a gentle essential oil (between 3 – 6 drops) such as Chamomile or Lavender, and top up with either distilled water or floral water such as Rose or Neroli (Orange Blossom). Allow to infuse for 24 hours, shake well and apply after washing or shaving. Store in a brown glass bottle in a cool dry place. For acne or oily skin you could replace some of the water with Witch-hazel to make it more astringent. If the idea of shaking your tonic before every use you can filter it through coffee filter paper and funnel it back into the bottle.
