Essential oils are the secret of Shraddha Kapoor’s beauty. Are you using them correctly?
Shraddha Kapoor swears by essential oils, and if used correctly these little ‘magic potions’ can work wonders for your skin too.
in short
- Essential oils are natural compounds obtained from plants
- They provide a variety of skin benefits
- However, it is necessary to use them correctly to avoid skin problems
Skin care enthusiasts have two main obsessions: experimenting with every beauty hack to achieve that coveted glow, and quietly admiring (Read: To be jealous) Their favorite stars are fascinated by their flawless, glowing skin. And let’s be honest – who doesn’t love uncovering celebrities’ skin care secrets and trying them out for yourself?
In a recent interview with EliShraddha Kapoor reveals her skin care weapon: essential oils. She shared that she not only loves using these but also enjoys mixing her own personal oils from time to time.
Over the past decade or two, essential oils have become a staple in the beauty world. But here’s the problem: they’re incredibly powerful and need to be used correctly to work their magic without damaging the skin.
What exactly are essential oils?
“Essential oils are compounds extracted from plants. The oils capture the smell and flavor, or essence, of the plant. Unique aromatic compounds give each essential oil its distinctive essence,” says Dr. Rishi Parashar explains. India Today,
He explains that essential oils are obtained through distillation (through steam and/or water) or mechanical methods, such as cold pressing. Once the aromatic chemicals are extracted, they are mixed with a carrier oil to create a product that is ready for use.
Dr Shireen Furtado, senior consultant, medical and cosmetic dermatology, Aster CMI Hospital, Bengaluru, says essential oils are often used in aromatherapy, skin care and holistic health practices due to their potential therapeutic effects.
“When it comes to skin care, essential oils offer a variety of benefits, including moisturizing properties, anti-inflammatory effects, and the ability to combat certain skin conditions,” she says.
be cautious
Dr. Furtado emphasizes the importance of using essential oils correctly, as some can cause irritation or allergic reactions if applied directly to the skin without proper dilution or guidance.
Dr. Parashar also says that just because something is natural doesn’t mean it’s safe. Plants and herbal products contain many bioactive compounds that can harm your health, and essential oils are no different. However, most essential oils are considered safe when inhaled or mixed with base oils for topical use.
Experts also warn that it is important to be aware of potential side effects. These can range from mild to severe, depending on a person’s sensitivity, the type of oil used, and the method of application. Common side effects include skin irritation, rashes, headaches, allergic reactions, and respiratory problems, especially when the oil is applied directly to the skin or inhaled in concentrated form.
“The oils most associated with adverse reactions are lavender, peppermint, tea tree, and ylang-ylang,” says Dr. Parashar. He adds, “Oils high in phenols, such as cinnamon, can cause skin irritation and should not be used unless recommended.” When mixed with base oils, citrus-based oils can make your skin more sensitive to sunlight, which can cause irritation.”
Choosing the Right Essential Oil
When choosing essential oils for your skin (whether dry, oily or mixed), it is important to choose oils that have properties suited to your skin’s needs.
- For dry skin, oils such as lavender and geranium are often recommended due to their hydrating and soothing effects, which help restore moisture and balance.
- For oily skin, tea tree and rosemary essential oils are often recommended, as they have natural astringent and antibacterial properties that can help regulate sebum production and prevent breakouts.
- For combination skin, it’s important to find oils that balance hydration and oil control, helping to nourish dry areas while preventing excess oil production in the T-zone. Lavender, geranium, tea tree, frankincense, and chamomile are good choices.
- For sensitive skin, chamomile and frankincense are excellent choices due to their calming and anti-inflammatory properties, making them ideal for reducing irritation and promoting skin health.
How to use essential oils
Dr. Furtado explains that there are several ways to use essential oils, depending on what results you want to achieve.
You can diffuse them, which means diffusing the oils into the air to create a pleasant smell. Another method is topical application, where you mix the essential oil with a carrier oil (like coconut or jojoba oil) and apply it to your skin for its benefits.
Once you have diluted the essential oil, do a patch test on a small area of skin first to check for sensitivity. Gently massage the diluted oil onto clean skin, avoiding sensitive areas like the eyes. Always use sparingly and avoid overuse.
Take care to apply essential oils to the targeted areas where you want to see results. For example:
- Tea tree oil for acne-prone areas (like the T-zone or breakouts).
- Lavender or chamomile oil to soothe irritated or dry skin.
- Frankincense oil for aging skin or to promote skin regeneration.
Before incorporating one into your daily routine
If you’re planning on adding an essential oil to your skin care routine, it’s important to first identify the skin issue you want to address. It is important to understand the unique properties of each essential oil, as each oil has different effects on mood, health, and well-being.
Before making a purchase, consider the oil extraction method, purity, and quality, as these factors significantly impact its effectiveness. Consulting a professional can also help you make an informed choice, ensuring that the oil not only meets your needs but also adheres to safety standards for use.
