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Inhaling the fragrant aromas of essential oils is just one way to enjoy aromatherapy. Another is applying essential oils to the skin in the form of properly diluted preparations -- massage oils, mineral baths and sprays.
The molecular structure of essential oils makes them readily dissolve in the protective oily sebum of the skin, where they are quickly absorbed. You know this is true if you've ever chopped fresh garlic -- you'll soon have the aroma of garlic on your breath even before you eat it.
Aromatherapy skincare is a safe, effective way for the body to tune in to the beneficial properties of essential oils.
The skin produces a protective emollient substance known as sebum. People whose bodies don't produce enough sebum often have dry, itchy and flaking skin. Certain essential oils can help. The tenacious, low volatility of base note oils like patchouli and sandalwood, as well as heavily scented floral oils like rose and ylang ylang are especially well suited for dry skin preparations.
:
* 4 fl. oz. almond oil
* 3 fl. oz. rosewater
* 1/2 oz. beeswax
* 10 drops rose
* 5 drops lavender
* 4 drops bergamot
* 8 drops patchouli
* 8 drops sandalwood
Melt the wax and the almond oil in a double boiler. Decrease the heat and add the rosewater gradually in a thin stream while vigorously beating the mixture. As soon as the water is incorporated remove from heat. When the mixture cools and turns creamy, add the essential oils.
Overactive sebaceous glands result in oily skin. People with oily skin need a regular cleansing regimen to remove excess oil and prevent clogged pores. This recipe for a facial mask uses the natural astringency of essential oils to help dissolve excess oil. Corn meal is slightly abrasive and tonifying; it will gently slough off dead skin. Almond meal is nourishing and will help replace beneficial oil as it tempers the astringent effects of the essential oils.
Mix 3 tablespoons of white corn meal and almond meal (freshly ground raw almonds work best), add the following essential oils:
* 10 drops lavender
* 5 drops bergamot
* 3 drops of clary sage
Add just enough rosewater or orange flower water to make a wet paste. Using circular motions gently massage the mixture onto your face, avoiding the soft tissues under the eyes. Leave the mixture on for 5 to 15 minutes, then rinse off with warm water. Finish the treatment by splashing cold water on the your face to close your pores.
Normal, healthy skin can benefit from a tonifying/balancing facial mist.
Add the following essential oils to 2 fluid ounces of distilled water:
* 6 drops lavender
* 1 drop clary sage
* 1 drop chamomile
* 4 drops lemon
Pour into a spray mister bottle. Essential oils and water will separate, so shake the bottle vigorously before spritzing this refreshing blend onto clean skin.
Painfully sunburned skin will benefit from a soothing, fragrant mist of distilled water and lavender oil. Adding a few drops of peppermint and spearmint oil contribute a cooling effect.
Add the following oils to 2 fluid ounces of distilled water.
* 9 drops of lavender
* 2 drops of peppermint
* 1 drop of spearmint
Mist lightly over sunburned skin.
Aromatherapy skincare is a great way to experience the benefits of essential oils. Not only does it benefit the body's surface, but it works its way deeply into the skin, affecting the entire organism. The aromas associated with this pampering work their fragrant magic on the spirit and mind as well.
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