4 Sources of Natural Skin Care Oils

Natural skin care oils can replenish the skin's moisture content, protect against damage from wind and the elements, soften, soothe and refresh. But, the terms used by cosmetic companies can be confusing. Hopefully, this article will clear up things up.

Many of the lotions and creams on the market contain essential oil. That term was created hundreds of years ago. It was used to describe distilled and concentrated plant fragrances that were said to convey the "essence" of the plant.

They are not oil-based. They are water-based. Lavender oil is one of the common examples. It smells nice, at first. But, when it is heavily concentrated, it causes drowsiness and moodiness. It irritates the throat and nasal membranes. It can cause allergic reactions when applied directly to the skin. Its best use is in aromatherapy, incense, candles or similar items. As a skincare ingredient, it is not the best choice.

Essential fatty acids are entirely different. They are one of the components of human sebum, the skin's own oils secreted by the sebaceous glands. Many natural skin care oils contain essential fatty acids. Some that are most similar to human sebum, on a molecular level, are listed below, along with the benefits provided by each.

Shea butter, pressed from the nut of the Shea tree, beneficial for acne, eczema and psoriasis, has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activity

Avocado oil, pressed from the fleshy pulp surrounding the pit of the avocado, contains numerous nutrients including vitamin A and E, which are known to be beneficial to the skin's health, shown in clinical trials to increase the amount of collagen in the skin's layers

Grape seed oil, rich in vitamin E and other antioxidants, particularly beneficial for healing the area beneath the eyes

Babassu palm oil, helps to balance sebum production, preventing excessive oiliness or dryness

Any of those natural skin care oils can be used by everyone, regardless of their complexion type. It is only mineral oil and other petroleum-based products that cause greasiness and cannot be used by people with acne or a tendency to have pimples.

Petroleum-based oil is not similar to the sebum. It is not absorbed, clogs the pores and causes numerous problems with the skin's health. If you have an oiler complexion, you'll be safe if you avoid mineral oil, petrolatum and paraffin. Those are the most common culprits.

As you may have noticed, most natural skin care oils have antioxidant activity. That is important for anyone that wants to delay or reverse the signs of aging.

Free radical damage is one of the leading causes of wrinkles, sagging, age spots and similar problems. Antioxidants neutralize free radicals before they can damage the cellular membranes and fibers. Some antioxidants have been proven to reverse damage that has already occurred.

Coenzyme Q10, for example, is a unique antioxidant that is quickly depleted when the skin is exposed to UV rays from the sun. Natural skin care oils don't contain coenzyme Q10, but it can be added to them. If you want the most benefits, you'll look for it on the label of ingredients.