The Topical Benefits Of Essential Oils

Essential oils have been used for centuries to provide one with glowing and healthy skin. What many don’t know is that essential oils offer a wide range of benefits beyond just their beautiful scent. The benefits depend on the oil type but include: improving acne, eliminating the appearance of scars, and even reducing the signs of aging. One can reap the benefits of these magical oils simply by applying the oil of choice directly to the skin. While there are many essential oils to choose from, the ones provided below provide the most effective means of benefitting from topical application.

Frankincense is one of the most commonly known essential oils. Among all the oils, it has even been dubbed as “the king” (1). When applied topically to one’s skin, frankincense is easily absorbed but should be diluted with something like olive oil first. This oil can then moisturize and heal the skin from damage from dryness and free radicals. Additionally, frankincense can be used topically for antibacterial purposes (2). This gives it an astringent-like quality that makes it a good facial toner. It has also been found to reduce wrinkles in mature skin and improve skin elasticity.

Geranium is another essential oil that is known for its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. It can not only help keep an infection from forming but may also speed up the healing process of cuts and wounds (3). Furthermore, geranium works to prevent body odor and therefore makes an effective and great-smelling natural deodorant. Lastly, the topical application of geranium oil also works to eliminate scars and skin spots by encouraging greater blood circulation below the skin.

While lavender oil is most widely used to aid in sleep and relaxation, it also does wonders for the skin. Lavender oil is proven to be antibacterial, so when applied directly to the skin, it can kill acne-causing bacteria and assist in clearing skin. Since it is non-comedogenic, it will not clog the skin’s pores either (4). Lavender oil has also been found to be antimicrobial and antifungal, healing the skin from conditions like eczema. Lavender can also help with skin discoloration, scarring, healing wounds, and reducing the signs of wrinkles.

Similarly, cedarwood oil also exhibits antifungal, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and analgesic properties. These properties make it effective in treating acne and can even help alleviate pain from arthritis (5).

Lastly, tea tree oil is another oil with profound healing effects. It is antiviral, antibacterial, and antifungal. This oil makes a great natural hand sanitizer as it kills many germs responsible for illnesses like the cold and flu (6). It can also be used as an insect repellent and natural deodorant, just like geranium. Tea tree oil is unique because it can also kill nail fungus as well as treat acne and scars.