For centuries, people have been using essential oils to maintain health and treat various ailments and conditions. These botanical extracts can be used in a variety of ways, but because they’re so concentrated and powerful, they’ll always need to be diluted in a carrier oil or a butter like shea or cocoa butter.
The Best Essential Oils for Your Skin Type
Keep in mind that the topical application of anything has the potential to cause an allergic reaction. Essential oils should always be used with a carrier oil or in a blend to avoid a skin reaction. You should do a patch test with any oil before applying to a larger area of skin. And, while it is rare, if you develop any adverse reaction, such as a rash, itching, or burning at the site of application, discontinue the oil and bring this to the attention of your doctor.
Essential oils for all skin types or sensitive skin
Essential oils: Geranium, helichrysum, lavender, neroli, Roman chamomile, rose
Carrier oil: Jojoba oil, sunflower seed
- Geranium
Geranium is a versatile oil that balances oil production, conditions skin, and is great for all skin types. Geranium can be added to moisturizers to help with over and under production of oil. - Geranium
Geranium is a versatile oil that balances oil production, conditions skin, and is great for all skin types. Geranium can be added to moisturizers to help with over and under production of oil. - Helichrysum
A tiny bottle of helichrysum is an investment. The nicknames for this healing oil with a honey-like scent are ‘everlasting’ and ‘immortelle.’ Which is perfect because helichrysum is a go-to oil for restoring the skin. - Lavender
This essential oil helps heal skin irritations and because it is so versatile, it can be used for all skin types. It can cleanse cuts, scrapes, burns, and irritations and can also calm down stressed skin. - Neroli
Neroli is a wonderful essential oil used to treat devitalized, mature, aging, and sensitive skin types. Due to its regenerative properties, you can also use neroli as a skin toner to tighten aging skin. It has antibacterial properties and is considered useful for acne, scarring, and stretch marks. As you can see, it would be a fantastic addition to your natural skincare routine. - Roman chamomile
Chamomile can treat a variety of skin conditions which include cracked skin, burns, acne, eczema, inflammation, sensitive skin and rosacea—just to name a few. It’s naturally anti-inflammatory and calming, making it a great choice for sensitive and allergic skin. - Rose
Intensely hydrating and naturally anti-inflammatory, rose oil plumps and moisturizes your skin without any potential chemical side effects. Rose oil can be used as a natural substitute for hyaluronic acid, a common ingredient in anti-aging beauty products.
Essential Oils for Oily or Acne-Prone Skin
Essential oils: Basil, cedarwood, clary sage, cypress, geranium, grapefruit, juniper, lemon, tea tree
Carrier oil: Tamanu oil, apricot kernel, grapeseed - Basil
Basil contains anti-inflammatory properties that make it a great option for many inflammatory issues. It is wonderful for soothing insect bites and irritation and is ideal for sensitive skin when properly diluted. It’s also great for overworked muscles and even headaches and migraines. Please note that basil should be avoided if pregnant. - Cedarwood
Cedarwood has the highest level of the anti-inflammatory substance, known as sesquiterpenes, of any essential oil, according to Essential Oils. That’s why it works so well on inflamed and acne-prone skin. Cedarwood is an effective toner on oily skin and hair. - Citrus
Citrus oils like lemon and grapefruit are natural astringents that work to cleanse oil-prone skin while toning and tightening. Their antiseptic properties also help protect against acne-causing bacteria. Grapefruit oil is especially helpful in breaking down cellulite. - Cypress
Cypress oil can not only help repair capillary vein damage often found around the nose area, but it also shrinks swollen blood vessels. It’s considered beneficial for varicose veins, according to the Complete Book of Essential Oils and Aromatherapy. This essential oil is also a good choice to use as an astringent on the skin or to tackle cellulite. - Juniper
Juniper is a cleansing oil and when diluted and applied to wounds it can speed healing time and help prevent infections. It’s a great choice for many different skin issues including oily skin and acne. The Art of Aromatherapy considers it beneficial for toning the skin and for use with skin disorders associated with irritation. - Tea Tree (Melaleuca)
The uses for tea tree oil are countless. A few of them include its antifungal and antibacterial properties. This means it’s a first choice for acne and oily skin. Tea tree oil can also treat minor cuts, scrapes, and just about any other skin condition you may experience.
