Essential oils are often used for steaming or diluted and directly applied to the skin. However, when it comes to applying essential oils to the face, many people are hesitant due to the delicate nature of facial skin and its impact on personal beauty. So, can essential oils be directly applied to the face?
Can essential oils be directly applied to the face?
In theory, essential oils extracted from plants such as flowers, leaves, roots, and fruits can be applied to the face after extracting the volatile aromatic substances in a certain way. However, because most single essential oils have a high concentration and can cause greater damage to the skin, they should not be directly applied to the skin.
Which essential oils can be directly applied to the face?
Essential oils that can be directly applied to the face are mostly blended oils that have been diluted to a certain proportion. Some single essential oils can also be applied directly to the face in small doses and on a small area, but precautions should be taken. For example, lavender essential oil, tea tree essential oil, etc.
Which essential oils cannot be directly applied to the face?
Most single essential oils should not be directly applied to the face. Common examples include bergamot essential oil, rose essential oil, lemon essential oil, orange blossom essential oil, rosemary essential oil, thyme essential oil, cinnamon essential oil, etc. These oils must be diluted before being applied to the face. The dilution ratio should be 1:10 with a carrier oil, and the concentration should not exceed 5% per use. Frequent use should also be avoided.
Different skincare methods for different skin types
Oily skin requires oil control
For oily skin, it is recommended to choose natural oils or serums with a refreshing quality, such as grapeseed oil or nut oil. Oily skin tends to produce excessive sebum due to a damaged sebum film, resulting in poor skin hydration. It is important to focus on balancing the skin's oil and moisture levels and reduce excessive oil production.
Usage: Soak a cotton pad in toner and add 1-2 drops of essential oil. Hold the cotton pad with your fingers and massage the entire face in circular motions from bottom to top, from the inside to the outside.
Dry skin requires moisturization and anti-aging
For dry skin, you can choose thicker or lighter oil types based on your preference. It is recommended to choose essential oils with almond ingredients. Dry skin often lacks moisture, resulting in dullness and a series of aging signs. Almond-based essential oils have excellent moisturizing and nourishing effects.
Usage: Start by using a warm towel to apply heat to the skin and open the pores. Then, mix 1-2 drops of essential oil into your regular moisturizer and massage the mixture evenly onto the face using your fingertips.
Sensitive skin requires soothing and anti-allergy effects
For sensitive skin, using essential oils regularly can enhance the skin's barrier function. It is best to choose conventional skincare products that contain soothing and repairing ingredients, such as Australian nut oil-based serums.
Usage: Use the essential oil alone or add it to a moisturizing serum, then apply it to the face with appropriate massage techniques.