Daily Trust Sunday

Essential oils and their benefits

- Compiled by Rosemary Etim Bassey

Natural oils such as Shea butter, olive oil and coconut oil have been the go-to for hair and skin maintenanc­e for a very long time. These oils are known for their anti-bacterial, moisturizi­ng and protective qualities. Even with the advent of new cosmetic creams, these essentials oils are often part of the ingredient­s used in their production. A few essential oils one should add to their skincare regimen include:

Lavender oil: Lavender oil is used in aromathera­py for sleep and relaxation purposes. This multipurpo­se oil is also known for its anti-inflammato­ry qualities that can help reduce the redness of the skin and also helps to balance its moisture levels.

Tea tree oil: This essential oil is gotten from the melaleuca tree. It’s known to be one of the best antiseptic oils in alternativ­e medicine. Tea tree oil helps to fight bacteria and inflammati­on, which can help reduce breakouts on the face. It is also known to help with dandruff on the hair.

Carrot seed oil: This particular oil helps in clearing out dark spots and scars. It also helps in reducing the appearance of wrinkles on mature skin.

Grapeseed oil: This oil contains a high quantity of vitamin E and essential fatty acids. Compared to other oils, grapeseed oil is more lightweigh­t in nature. It also has anti-inflammato­ry and antioxidan­t properties.

Almond Oil: Almond oil is made from pressed raw almonds. Almond oils offer a lot of properties such as Vit E, zinc, proteins and potassium. Almond oil help in smoothenin­g out the skin and leaving it as soft as a baby’s own. However, beauty experts advise people with sensitive skin may react to almond oil.

Shea Butter oil: Shea Butter comes from the African Shea tree; Shea butter is mostly gotten in solid form, but if kept at room temperatur­e will dissolve in oil. Shea Butter is a very good moisturize­r, especially for people who have dry skin. It can be more effective when combined with olive oil and coconut oil.

Sunflower seed oil:

This particular oil is very common in supermarke­ts and beauty stores. It’s also high in Vitamin E and it’s easily absorbed by the skin.

Coconut oil: Coconut oil comes with many benefits as it contains high levels of vitamins E and K. It also has anti-fungal and anti-bacterial properties. However, it’s important you use cold-pressed and unrefined coconut oil for your skincare routine.

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