The oil for skin rejuvenation was first used several centuries before our era. Ancient Roman emperors, ancient Greek priestesses and ancient Egyptian pharaohs anointed the skin with oils. Back then, they were almost the only cosmetics, literally worth their weight in gold, and only available to nobles.
With the development of the chemical industry, more effective synthetic creams appeared and for some time the oils were undeservedly forgotten.
But today, when, after careful study, scientists have discovered new anti-aging properties of vegetable oils, they are experiencing a rebirth.
Nowadays, there is a real boom around the world in the use of natural cosmetics based on natural oils and plant extracts.
Why oils are useful
All vegetable oils can be divided into two major groups - natural and essential. They can be used individually or in combination by buying ready-made compositions or composing them yourself. These products are obtained by cold pressing of quality natural raw materials. They can be obtained from nuts, seeds, grains and stone fruits. These oils are primarily a valuable food source, as most of them contain:
- the strongest natural antioxidants - vitamins C and E;
- vitamin A, which increases skin elasticity;
- B vitamins that improve the condition of the skin, hair, nails;
- valuable trace elements - selenium, iodine, manganese, iron, copper and others. ;
- vital minerals - potassium, calcium, magnesium, fluorine, etc.
The secret of such a powerful effect of natural oils on human skin is that they have a chemical composition similar in its formula to sebum. Allergies are extremely rare, do not cause irritation and have a pronounced emollient and soothing effect.
Most often, natural vegetable oils are the main components of creams and masks, in which essential oils with truly unique properties are easily dissolved.
Interestingly, in many ways, essential oils still remain a mystery to humans. By their origin, these are volatile aromatic substances that can be found in various parts of plants. To get a small amount of pure essential oil, sometimes you have to process tons of raw materials, so the price can be very high.
The most remarkable property of essential oils is their ability to penetrate into the deep layers of the skin due to their low molecular weight structure. In addition, absolutely all of them have pronounced antiseptic and bactericidal properties and in one way or another are able to affect a person's mental state.
Their healing properties are now being studied. But even what we already know about them allows them to be used effectively both at home and in professional cosmetology.
Natural oils
Natural vegetable oils are used not only for the face but also for the whole body. Massage with them quickly and effectively improves the condition of the skin, moisturizes it and even smoothes fine wrinkles.
But not all of them are constantly in a liquid state. Some of them (cocoa, shea, coconut, etc. ) harden at room temperature and resemble oily paraffin in structure. Before use, they should be warmed in a water bath until the solids dissolve. Due to this property, such oils often become the main components for the preparation of homemade creams.
Different types of oils have different properties, so they must be chosen individually, depending on the condition of the skin and the problem to be solved by using them.
The best product for you is one that is completely absorbed by the skin and does not leave a greasy film on it. The most pronounced anti-aging properties of these oils:
- Argan. Perfectly moisturizes the skin and thanks to its chemical composition restores its Ph and water-salt balance. It is able to smooth out wrinkles and even shallow scars.
- Shea butter. Actively stimulates tissue regeneration, has powerful anti-inflammatory properties, improves skin elasticity and gives it a healthy glow.
- avocado. It saturates the epidermis with valuable nutrients, penetrating its deep layers. Creates a protective barrier that retains moisture, absorbs quickly, gradually removes pigmentation.
- cocoa. It contains unsaturated fatty acids, which quickly restore the protective properties of the skin, and is also a natural sunscreen.
- Grape seeds. Actively neutralizes free radicals, slows down the aging process, smoothes fine wrinkles and improves skin tone. Good removes bruises and bags under the eyes.
- Almonds. Successfully fights cellulite, quickly tightens the skin, perfectly moisturizes it, making it softer and more elastic.
- Sea buckthorn. It has the strongest healing properties and anti-inflammatory properties, is a powerful natural antioxidant, successfully fights wrinkles.
You should be aware that when working with natural oils you should avoid contact with metal objects. They can be stored for up to six months in a tightly closed glass container, away from exposure to ultraviolet rays, preferably in a dark and cool place.
Homemade creams, prepared on a natural basis, are stored in the refrigerator for no more than a month.
Essential oils
Essential oils have pronounced healing properties, and their variety is very large. Today, more than 3, 000 essential oils are known. However, there are just over 200 of those undergoing industrial processing. Only about 50 types of essential oils are used in cosmetology.
The following types of essential oils are most often used for facial rejuvenation:
- anise - refreshes the skin, increases its elasticity;
- orange - accelerates cell regeneration, copes well with cellulite;
- basil - perfectly removes puffiness and bags under the eyes;
- valerian - soothes, relieves irritation, smoothes wrinkles;
- coniferous - improves complexion, activates blood circulation, strengthens capillaries;
- ylang-ylang - one of the most powerful stimulants of skin tone, gives a lifting effect;
- coriander - quickly tightens the skin, makes it smooth and supple;
- lavender - gently and effectively affects sensitive skin;
- lemon - whitens and rejuvenates, stimulates cell regeneration;
- juniper - with regular use significantly reduces stretch marks;
- mint - an excellent natural stimulant of intracellular processes;
- neroli - increases firmness and elasticity, removes vascular networks, evens out color;
- patchouli - refreshes, moisturizes, removes sagging and earthy color;
- rosemary - makes the skin fresh and supple, quickly rejuvenates;
- pink is the most popular and universal anti-aging remedy;
- sage - significantly improves the structure and appearance of the skin, visibly shrinking pores;
- tea tree - a powerful antioxidant and antiseptic, restores the skin after acne and dermatitis.
Do not mix more than 2-3 types of essential oils at a time, as this can lead to a weakening of their healing properties. Applying 100% essential oils on the skin in its pure form is strongly discouraged - this can lead to irritation, allergic reactions and even burns. Topical applications of them are sometimes used to treat acne.
Examinations and contraindications
Reviews and results after using natural oils are the most positive.
In their effect, they are often not inferior to the most expensive creams and have virtually no contraindications. The only restriction is not to apply on areas affected by skin diseases and pustular eruptions.
Individual intolerance is extremely rare.
Almost all essential oils should not be used during pregnancy, lactation and fever. There are also additional restrictions and contraindications for each of them, which must be carefully studied before use.
Unlike natural oils, if used improperly, they can cause high blood pressure, irritation and even bronchospasm. Due to their powerful effect on the body, you should treat them with caution.