The use of essential oils for beauty and wellness has grown in popularity over the past few years. By definition an essential oil is “A natural oil typically obtained by distillation and having the characteristic fragrance of the plant or other source from which it is extracted”. Aside from offering consumers a more natural and holistic tool for wellness, these oils can also be customized according to needs or preferences. You can easily concoct essential oil recipes for your personal and home care needs if you wish. But first here are some basics to consider.
Know your oils. Each essential oil has its own properties and uses. For instance lavender and chamomile oils have pleasant odours that are effective for aromatheraphy. Tea tree oil is known for its antibacterial properties while coconut oil is known for its versatility in use i.e. culinary, health, beauty, and wellness. Also remember that there is a proper way to use natural oils. Some oils can be dangerous if swallowed and topically applied oils can also cause skin irritation. Thus knowing your oil is the first step in ensuring the safety and effectiveness of your DIY essential oil concoction.
Test before you use. Natural oils may be eco-friendly but this doesn’t automatically mean that they aren’t harmful to your skin. They can still cause allergic reactions or skin irritations if not formulated or diluted properly. Essential oils that are formulated for skin and body may not also be safe for the eyes, mouth, and sensitive parts of the body. It is always best to test essential oils on a small patch of skin before applying it to the body.
Explore recipes but exercise caution. Formulating your own essential oil recipe can be fun and rewarding but remember to put safety first in your experiments. Read and follow safety labels in the products that you use. Also pay attention to where you store your ingredients and tools especially if you have kids around the house. Potent oils can be dangerous when swallowed or come in contact with their eyes. For beginners, you can practice with essential oil recipes online before trying out your own formula. Here are some recipes you can try for your hair and skin care needs.
Night-time Face Serum for Normal to Oily Skin from recipeswithessentialoils.com. Mix 2 tablespoons of rosehip seed oil, 1 tablespoon argan oil, 2 teaspoons vitamin E oil, 30 drops Frankincense essential oil, and 5 drops Ylang Ylang essential oil in a 2 ounce dropper bottle using a swirling motion. Apply on clean and dry face and neck before bedtime.
Essential Oil Hair Mask Recipe from lovingessentialoils.com. In a bowl, mix 2 tablespoons of Virgin Coconut oil, 3 drops of Rosemary essential oil, and 3 drops Lavender essential oil. Apply mixture evenly on damp hair and leave it for 30 minutes. Rinse hair then wash with shampoo and conditioner.
Rosehip Oil for Nails from lovingessentialoils.com. Combine 4 drops of Lavender essential oil, 2 drops frankincense essential oil, 2 drops Rose absolute, and 2 teaspoons Roseship Oil in a 10ml glass roller bottle. Fill the empty space with roseship oil then place roller top and cover the bottle. Shake well for proper blending of oils.
