Some believe that all essential oils are safe for every skin type. However, we're debunking that myth right now because, although these are natural oils, their potency does not always make them the best fit for skin absorption.
Its benefits are plenty -- anxiety relief, mood enhancement, relaxation, sleep improvement, puffiness/inflammation reduction and immune system enhancement. The flipside? Adverse reactions include allergies and skin inflammation. Some people's essential oil skincare routine includes moisturizing and even bathing in them! Crazy or not?
When celebrities like "Dancing with the Stars" alum-judge Julianne Hough reveals a skincare routine that includes essential oils, we want to cop that, too.The "America's Got Talent" judge has a knack for choosing essential oils that are suitable for sensitive skin. What makes her choices different?
To reap the benefits of essential oils for the skin sans skin irritation, we took the lead of Hough and started being very picky about essential oils.
Take Precautions When Using These Oils
Cinnamon Oil
Cinnamon reminds us of mom's kitchen. We diffuse cinnamon oil for its relaxing scent, with some even adding it to massage oils. However, those with sensitive skin may be at risk of a burning sensation and skin rashes.
As it is highly potent, it's a must to dilute Cinnamon oil with carrier oils like jojoba, almond, olive, coconut, or avocado oil before applying on the skin. Still, err on the side of caution and use this oil sparingly.
Lavender Oil
Stress-soothing and anti-itch properties in lavender oil make it so popular beyond aromatherapy. Nonetheless, those who are susceptible to allergens may battle with hives and rashes when using this oil even in its super-diluted form.
If you are keen on using this oil without prior experience, it's always best to do a patch test first on a small area of your skin.
Tea Tree Oil
Surprised? The ingredient present in anti-acne products can be a major skin irritant for those with sensitive skin.
If you want to use tea tree oil for its antibacterial and anti-inflammation properties, make your own concoction. Less is more with tea tree oil, so a drop diluted in water goes a long way.
Mint oils
Peppermint, balm mint, and wintergreen oils are as potent as they are fragrant. Apparently, it can trigger allergic contact dermatitis after the second or third use.
Take precautions when choosing a cooling or invigorating mask or shampoo with mint oil to prevent skin sensitivity issues. And when bathing, pass up on mint oils.
Citrus oils
Many favor orange, lemon, and grapefruit oil for bright skin and lightening dark marks, but their acidity reacts with prolonged sun exposure. With skin prone to hyper-pigmentation, citrus oils may amplify darkness and scarring.
Essential Oils for Bathing
These essential oils may cause irritation on the eyes, sensitive regions, and the skin: mint oils, black pepper, cinnamon oil, clove, oregano, camphor, hyssop, and thyme.
Instead, opt for the following essential oil when bathing: myrrh, rosemary, lemongrass, chamomile, rose, or jasmine.
Julianne Hough's Picks
For the "Footloose" actress, she makes sure to choose 100 percent natural essential oils, such as those by GuruNada. Lucky for us, this is an affordable brand we can buy straight off the racks of Walmart.
Their bestseller is GuruNada Top 6 Blends Essential Oils Set. It comes with a recipe book for making your own bathing salts and other beauty routine recipes.
Every bottle is a mixture of essential oils and labeled for its effect.
Cedarwood and patchouli oils make up the Tranquility bottle. Anti-congestion oils like mint oils mixed with rosemary, tea tree, and basil are in the Breathe Easy bottle for diffusing.
The Thrive bottle has a cleansing and energizing effect with cinnamon leaf, lemon, and immune-boosting clove bud. The Harmony bottle is excellent as a home fragrance with lemongrass, citrus, and vanilla.
The Relaxation bottle has the notes of burning incense at a yoga session. Finally, retire at night with a few drops from the Calming Sleep bottle with a blend of frankincense, Lavandin, and cedarwood.
What's your beauty tip for supple skin while calming the mind?