Essential oils have been used for centuries to enhance beauty, health and wellbeing. Derived from the essence of flowers, leaves, stems and roots of plants, these potent plant extracts offer a natural way to care for your skin's needs.

When chosen and used safely and correctly, essential oils can help address many common skincare concerns. Keep reading to discover how these natural oils can be incorporated into your regimen for clear, glowing skin.

essential oils for the skin

What Is Sebum & Why Is It Important?

Sebum is the natural oil produced by the sebaceous glands in our skin. It helps moisturise, protect and waterproof the skin and hair. Those with oily or acne-prone skin tend to overproduce sebum, especially during puberty. As we age, sebum production declines leading to dry, dehydrated skin. Hormones, medications, diet and skincare can impact sebum levels. Understanding your sebum levels is key for choosing the right essential oils.

Matching Oils to Your Skin Type

Normal or Combination Skin

  • Geranium balances sebum
  • Neroli controls oil while preventing dryness
  • Lavender calms inflammation and helps heal breakouts

Dry Skin

  • Rose and sandalwood deeply hydrate
  • Frankincense prevents moisture loss
  • Rosehip seed oil reduces scarring and signs of ageing

Oily or Acne-Prone Skin

  • Tea tree and lemon disinfect, clear pores
  • Clary sage regulates excess sebum
  • Juniper berry tones and tightens

Sensitive Skin

  • Chamomile calms redness and irritation
  • Helichrysum speeds healing and reduces inflammation
  • Rose otto helps strengthen delicate capillaries

Essential Oils for Common Skin Concerns

From acne to wrinkles, here are some of the best essential oils to address common skin concerns:

Acne-Prone and Oily Skin

Suggested oils:

  • Tea tree - antibacterial, reduces inflammation
  • Lavender - controls oil, kills bacteria
  • Lemon - astringent, unclogs pores
  • Clary sage - balances sebum production
  • Juniper berry - tones, tightens pores
  • Rosemary - controls oil, antibacterial

Dilute 2-3 drops in a carrier oil or unscented lotion and apply to problem areas. Can also make DIY toner. Use caution as oils may increase sun sensitivity.

Dry, Dehydrated Skin

Suggested oils:

  • Rose - deeply hydrating, repairs skin
  • Sandalwood - retains moisture, soothes
  • Roman chamomile - anti-inflammatory, calming
  • Frankincense - regenerates cells, boosts collagen
  • Patchouli - healing, anti-aging
  • Carrot seed - antioxidant, stimulates tissue growth

Mix 2-4 drops per teaspoon of carrier oil and massage into skin. Oils seal in moisture and provide relief from itching, cracking.

essential oils for the skin application

Sensitive or Irritated Skin

Suggested oils:

  • Lavender - calming, healing
  • Bergamot - anti-inflammatory, reduces redness
  • German chamomile - soothing, calms irritation
  • Myrrh - anti-inflammatory, repairs skin
  • Rose geranium - minimises sensitivity
  • Helichrysum - repairs damaged skin cells

Use no more than 2% concentration of soothing, gentle oils diluted in carrier oils. Do patch test before use.

Mature or Wrinkled Skin

Suggested oils:

  • Rose - regenerates skin cells, boosts collagen
  • Frankincense - reduces lines, repairs sun damage
  • Myrrh - stimulates cell turnover, antioxidant
  • Pomegranate seed - powerful antioxidant, anti-aging
  • Carrot seed - tone, elasticity
  • Neroli - improves elasticity, scar healing

Use light, upward strokes to apply diluted oils to face, neck, décolletage 1-2 times daily. Results improve over time.

Scarring and Uneven Skin Tone

Suggested oils:

  • Neroli - regenerates cells, improves elasticity
  • Lavender - speeds healing, evens tone
  • Rosehip seed - anti-inflammatory, fades scars
  • Frankincense - stimulates new cell growth
  • Helichrysum - repairs damaged tissue
  • Carrot seed - antioxidants prevent damage

Massage 2-3 diluted drops into scarred areas twice daily. Consistency is key for seeing results. Avoid sun exposure.

essential oils for the skin preparation

Conclusion

When used properly, essential oils can be a safe, natural way to achieve healthy, radiant skin. Be sure to dilute oils, do patch tests, and monitor for any reactions. Consult your dermatologist to create a customised skincare regimen with essential oils.

FAQs

How do I know which oils suit my skin type?

Do a patch test first. If no reaction after 24-48 hours, the oil should suit your skin. Start with low concentrations.

What carrier oils work best with essential oils?

Jojoba, coconut, olive, almond and avocado work well. Match carrier to your skin type.

How often can I use essential oils on my skin?

Use oils sparingly, 1-2 times daily max. Take regular breaks. Some increase sun sensitivity.

Are essential oils safe for children?

Consult a paediatrician first. Oils like wintergreen, eucalyptus, rosemary and peppermint can be toxic for kids. Use gentle oils like lavender in very low amounts.

Should I apply oils before or after moisturizer?

Apply oils after water-based products but before moisturizer. This seals in hydration while preventing evaporation.

Share this post!

Visit Us

In-Store

Our store is well stocked with a selection of quality essential oils, base products, carrier oils and raw ingredients. Plus, it smells amazing!

Visit us in-store to stock up on materials for your next creation.

location-svg

6/138 Radium St Welshpool Western Australia 6106Australia

open
monday-friday

Showroom
9am – 3:30pm

Order pickups available
8am – 4:30pm