For the first time, skin rejuvenation oil was used several centuries before our era. Ancient Roman emperors, ancient Greek priestesses, and ancient Egyptian pharaohs anointed the skin with oils. So they were almost the only cosmetics, they were literally worth their weight in gold and were only available to the nobility.
With the development of the chemical industry, more effective synthetic creams appeared, and for some time the oils were undeservedly forgotten.
But today, when, after careful study, scientists have discovered new anti-aging properties of vegetable oils, they are experiencing a renaissance.
Nowadays, all over the world there is a real boom in the use of natural cosmetics based on natural oils and plant extracts.
Why oils are useful
All vegetable oils can be divided into two large groups: natural and essential. They can be used both individually and in combination, buying ready-made compositions or composing them yourself. These products are obtained from the cold pressing of quality natural raw materials. They can be made from nuts, seeds, grains and fruit pits. These oils are primarily a valuable source of nutrition, as most of them contain:
- the most powerful natural antioxidants - vitamins C and E;
- vitamin A which increases skin elasticity;
- B vitamins that improve the condition of the skin, hair, nails;
- valuable trace elements - selenium, iodine, manganese, iron, copper, etc. ;
- vital minerals - potassium, calcium, magnesium, fluorine, etc.
The secret of such powerful effect of natural oils on human skin is that they have a similar chemical composition in their formula to sebum. Allergies are extremely rare on them, they do not cause irritation and have a pronounced softening and soothing effect.
Most often, natural vegetable oils are the basic components of creams and masks, in which essential oils with truly unique properties dissolve easily.
Interestingly, in many ways essential oils still remain a mystery to humans. By their origin, they are volatile aromatic substances that can be found in different parts of plants. To obtain a small amount of pure essential oil, sometimes tons of raw materials have to be processed, so the cost can be very high.
The most notable property of essential oils is their ability to penetrate into the deep layers of the skin due to their low molecular weight structure. In addition, absolutely all of them have pronounced antiseptic and bactericidal properties, and in one way or another they are able to affect the mental state of a person.
Their medicinal properties are now being studied. But also what we already know about them allows them to be used effectively both at home and in professional cosmetology.
Natural oils
Natural vegetable oils are used not only for the face, but also for the whole body. Massaging with them quickly and effectively improves the condition of the skin, moisturizes it and smoothes even fine wrinkles.
But not all of them are constantly liquid. Some of them (cocoa, shea, coconut, etc. ) harden at room temperature and resemble oily paraffin in structure. Before use, they must be heated in a water bath until the solids dissolve. Due to this property, such oils often become the basic components for the manufacture of homemade creams.
Different types of oils have different properties, so they should be selected individually, depending on the condition of the skin and the problem that needs to be solved by using them.
The best product for you is the one that is completely absorbed into the skin and does not leave an oily film on it. The most pronounced anti-aging properties of these oils:
- Arganovoye. It perfectly hydrates the skin and, thanks to its chemical composition, restores its pH and salt balance. It is capable of smoothing wrinkles and even superficial scars.
- Shea Butter. It actively stimulates tissue regeneration, has powerful anti-inflammatory properties, improves skin elasticity and gives it a healthy glow.
- Avocado. Saturates the epidermis with valuable nutrients, penetrating its deep layers. Creates a protective barrier that retains moisture, absorbs quickly, gradually removes pigmentation.
- Cocoa. Contains unsaturated fatty acids, which quickly restore the skin's protective properties, and is also a natural sunscreen.
- Grape seeds. It actively neutralizes free radicals, slowing the aging process, smoothes fine wrinkles and improves skin tone. Well removes bruises and bags under the eyes.
- Almond. Successfully fights cellulite, quickly tightens the skin, perfectly moisturizes it, making it softer and more elastic.
- Sea buckthorn. It possesses the strongest healing and anti-inflammatory properties, is a powerful natural antioxidant, successfully fights wrinkles.
You must be aware that when working with natural oils, you must avoid their contact with metal objects. They can be stored for up to six months, in a tightly closed glass container, away from exposure to ultraviolet rays, preferably in a dark and cool place.
Homemade creams prepared on a natural basis can be stored in the refrigerator for no more than a month.
Essential oils
Essential oils have pronounced healing properties, and their variety is very large. Today, more than 3000 essential oil plants are known. However, there are just over 200 of those that undergo industrial processing. In cosmetology, only about 50 types of essential oils are used.
Most often, the following types of essential oils are used for facial rejuvenation:
- anise - refreshes the skin, increases its elasticity;
- orange: accelerates cell regeneration, copes well with cellulite;
- basil - perfectly removes puffiness and bags under the eyes;
- valerian - soothes, relieves irritation, smoothes wrinkles;
- conifers - improves complexion, activates blood circulation, strengthens capillaries;
- ylang-ylang - one of the most powerful stimulants of the skin tone, gives a lifting effect;
- coriander - quickly tightens the skin, makes it smooth and elastic;
- lavender: acts delicately and effectively on sensitive skin;
- lemon - whitens and rejuvenates, stimulates cell regeneration;
- juniper - with regular use, significantly reduces stretch marks;
- peppermint - an excellent natural stimulant of intracellular processes;
- neroli - increases firmness and elasticity, eliminates vascular networks, evens out color;
- patchouli: refreshes, moisturizes, removes flaccidity and earthy color;
- rosemary - makes the skin fresh and supple, quickly rejuvenates;
- pink is the most popular and versatile anti-aging agent;
- sage - significantly improves the texture and appearance of the skin, visibly narrowing the pores;
- tea tree - a powerful antioxidant and antiseptic, restores the skin after acne and dermatitis.
Do not mix more than 2-3 types of essential oils at the same time, as this can lead to a weakening of their healing properties. We strongly advise against applying 100% essential oils to the skin in their pure form - this can lead to irritation, allergic reactions and even burns. Spot applications of these are sometimes used to treat acne.
Reviews and contraindications
Reviews and results after using natural oils are the most positive.
In terms of effect, they are often not inferior to more expensive creams and practically have no contraindications. The only limitation is not to apply them to areas affected by skin diseases and pustular rashes.
Individual intolerance is extremely rare.
Almost all essential oils should not be used during pregnancy, breastfeeding and fever. In addition, for each of them, there are additional restrictions and contraindications that must be carefully studied before use.
Unlike natural oils, if used improperly, they can cause high blood pressure, irritation and even bronchial spasms. Due to their powerful effects on the body, it is necessary to treat them with caution.