Essential oils can be beneficial for the skin due to their anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, healing and antioxidant properties. However, it is important to remember that they should never be applied directly to the skin without diluting in a carrier oil (such as jojoba, sweet almond, fractionated coconut or argan oil), as they can be too strong and cause irritation. Below, I share with you some of the most used essential oils in skin care, along with their specific benefits and recommendations for use.

Popular Essential Oils for Skin Care

1. Lavender Essential Oil

   • Benefits: It is known for its calming, regenerative and anti-inflammatory properties. It helps soothe irritated skin, reduce redness and promote cell regeneration, making it ideal for sensitive skin and treating acne.
   • Use: Dilute 2-3 drops of lavender oil in a teaspoon of carrier oil and apply to affected areas or as a night serum for sensitive skin.

2. Tea Tree Essential Oil

   • Benefits: It is one of the most effective essential oils to combat acne, due to its powerful antibacterial and antifungal properties. It helps reduce the size of pimples and control excess oil on the skin.
   • Use: Mix 1-2 drops of tea tree in a teaspoon of carrier oil and apply punctually to the pimples. It is not recommended for the entire face, especially if you have sensitive skin.

3. Roman Chamomile Essential Oil

   • Benefits: It has soothing and anti-inflammatory properties, which makes it ideal for sensitive skin or skin prone to irritation and redness. It is also useful in reducing inflammation and itching.
   • Use: Dilute 2-3 drops in a teaspoon of carrier oil and use on irritated areas or as a soothing treatment.

4. Frankincense Essential Oil

   • Benefits: It is known for its regenerating and anti-aging properties. It helps improve skin elasticity, reduces the appearance of fine lines and blemishes, and promotes firmer, more radiant-looking skin.
   • Use: Add 2-3 drops to your oil or moisturizer and apply to your face to help reduce fine lines and improve skin texture.

5. Geranium Essential Oil

   • Benefits: Regulates sebum and is ideal for combination or oily skin. Additionally, it helps balance the skin, reducing the appearance of enlarged pores and providing an even tone.
   • Use: Dilute 2-3 drops in a carrier oil and apply to areas with excess oil or as a facial serum to balance tone.

6. Rosehip Essential Oil

   • Benefits: Rich in antioxidants and fatty acids, it is ideal for treating scars, spots and wrinkles. It promotes skin regeneration and improves its elasticity, making it a popular option to treat signs of aging.
   • Use: Dilute 2-3 drops in a carrier oil, such as jojoba oil, and apply to areas with blemishes or expression lines.

7. Ylang Ylang Essential Oil

   • Benefits: Balances sebum production, making it ideal for combination or oily skin. It also has a floral and relaxing aroma, which can improve mood and reduce stress.
   • Use: Add 2-3 drops to a teaspoon of carrier oil and use it as a facial moisturizer, especially on combination skin.

8. Lemon Essential Oil (for night use only)

   • Benefits: It has lightening properties and helps reduce acne spots and scars. It is also ideal for oily skin, as it regulates sebum and leaves a feeling of freshness.
   • Caution: It is photosensitive, so it should not be used before exposure to the sun.
   • Use: Dilute 1-2 drops in a carrier oil and apply to blemished areas only at night.

Precautions When Using Essential Oils on the Skin

• Proper dilution: Always dilute essential oils in a carrier oil. The recommended concentration is generally 1-2% for facial use (approximately 1-2 drops of essential oil per teaspoon of carrier oil).
• Allergy Test: Before applying any mixture to your face, perform an allergy test on your forearm and wait 24 hours to make sure there are no adverse reactions.
• Moderate use: Essential oils are very powerful, so it is important not to exceed the amount. Using a few drops is enough.
• Photosensitive oils: Oils such as lemon, orange, and bergamot can cause photosensitivity, meaning they can make the skin more susceptible to sunburn if applied before sun exposure. Use them only in your nighttime routine and make sure to wash your skin well in the morning.

Basic Facial Serum Blend with Essential Oils

To make a balancing facial serum:

• Ingredients:
  • 1 tablespoon jojoba or sweet almond oil (as a base).
  • 1-2 drops of frankincense essential oil (anti-aging).
  • 1-2 drops of lavender essential oil (soothing).
  • 1 drop of geranium essential oil (balancing).
• Instructions: Mix all the ingredients in a dark glass jar. Apply a few drops to your face after cleansing and toning, massaging gently.

Essential oils can be a great addition to your skincare routine when used correctly. The key is to select the right oil for your skin type and apply it safely.