Most essential oils have been the friend of the skin for centuries but have been left to get eaten up by cobwebs in the hall of fame of skincare oils. Today we pull out a few known ones and briefly look at how they can help achieve smooth, pimple-free face and skin.

The centuries-old tradition of using essential oils is one with lasting impact—for good reason. With hundreds of oils to choose from, essential oils can treat everything from acne scars to wrinkles, with aromatherapy benefits that create a sense of calm. Mix a few drops in your moisturizer or dilute it in a carrier oil and let your usual everyday application of skin pomade or cream treat your skin to the best of you.

PURE ARGAN OIL

Antioxidant and vitamin-rich, argan oil is extremely hydrating and nourishing, making it the perfect oil to work into your routine if you suffer from dry skin and wrinkles. The combination of vitamin E and fatty acids is easily absorbed, meaning that you’ll see the effects of argan oil almost instantly.

GRAPEFRUIT ESSENTIAL OIL

Mix the fresh scent of pink grapefruit with any of your body creams and you’ll notice the refreshing citrus smell will even lighten your mood. As a part of your beauty routine, grapefruit oil reportedly works well for people with oily skin or hair, and can also help heal acne.

PEPPERMINT OIL

Refreshing peppermint oil can help relieve muscle or joint pain. A study from 2016 also revealed that the oil can reduce the severity of pruritus, a chronic itchy skin condition, and help calm irritation. Even better? Breathing in peppermint oil can help reduce stress and fatigue.

ORGANIC ORANGE ESSENTIAL OIL

Sweet orange oil is known for its antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties, but the oil can also give your skin a much-needed vitamin C boost. Try adding a few drops to your moisturizer or to body scrub to help your skin glow and brighten.

LAVENDER ESSENTIAL OIL

Lavender is an all-around great pick for an essential oil to use on your skin. Lavender is great for the skin because it is so calming, gentle, and nourishing. This oil can reduce the appearance of blemishes and give your skin a youthful glow. The oil can also help if you’re prone to skin irritation or sunburn.

FRANKINCENSE ESSENTIAL OIL

Frankincense essential oil is an anti-aging powerhouse. The oil can reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines while leaving you with a radiant, youthful glow. Frankincense has been used since Ancient Egypt to help keep the skin looking youthful and supple. Make it a must-have addition to your skincare routine.

TEA TREE ORGANIC ESSENTIAL OIL

Consider this another royally-approved beauty hack. Tea tree oil is a “little cure-all”. This essential oil can be used to remedy a mosquito bite or small breakout. Tea tree oil is a natural antimicrobial, so it fights any bacteria that could cause acne, fungus, or even dandruff.

LEMONGRASS OIL

Lemongrass is a natural astringent, with added antibacterial, and anti-fungal properties as well, making it a multi-purpose powerhouse for your skin. But the oil can also work as an anti-aging treatment: a 2015 study revealed that lemongrass oil can treat signs of skin aging as a natural antioxidant too.

ROSEMARY ESSENTIAL OIL

Essential oils don’t only work wonders on your skin: Rosemary oil is known for helping promote a healthier scalp too. “Rosemary essential oil helps to support blood flow to the scalp which can help to stimulate hair growth.

Enter into the ancient list of skincare oils, make a choice of one to start applying, and let it help glow and smoothen your skin to the best of your skin type.

By: Ernest Edem

Medical Herbalist Intern