Why should you try natural oils?
They are promoted as alternatives for hair conditioning, skin hydration, acne treatment, and nail strengthening. Take a stroll down the beauty aisle of your pharmacy, and you will find them in many products. Do they work? You may need to experiment. Everyone’s skin is different, and it comes down to trial and error.
Marula
Made from the fruit of the marula tree, native to South Africa, this oil is rich and hydrating. It is full of fatty acids, which dermatologists say are very beneficial for dry skin. It absorbs quickly and won’t leave a shiny or greasy appearance.
Tea Tree
Red, inflamed breakouts occur when bacteria get trapped inside the pores. Research shows that tea tree oil helps eliminate bacteria. In one study, it outperformed a placebo gel (which has no active ingredients) in treating acne and calming inflammation. Another study found it to be as effective as benzoyl peroxide, a common ingredient in prescription acne remedies.
Argan
Sometimes called liquid gold, argan oil is rich in antioxidants known as polyphenols, which can combat the effects of aging. Dermatologists also say that omega-3 fatty acids stimulate collagen production and refresh the skin. It doesn’t matter if you have dry, oily, or normal skin.
It also conditions hair without weighing it down or making it feel greasy.
Chamomile and Mint
You might think of chamomile as a relaxing tea, but the oil from this daisy-like plant can soothe your skin. Skin specialists call it anti-inflammatory and antiseptic, which reduces redness, irritation, and the chances of infection. Mint oil has similar soothing properties.
Coconut
Dry, cracked skin is more likely to become infected, irritated, and have allergic reactions. Coconut oil protects, hydrates, and calms scaly and rough patches that can accompany common conditions like eczema.
Rosehip and Carrot
You will find vitamin A in many skincare products. It is a retinoid, a chemical compound that helps replace old skin cells with new ones and produces collagen, which can lighten discoloration from scars and stretch marks. Two oils rich in vitamin A are rosehip and carrot seed oil. Some dermatologists say they are also good as anti-aging treatments.
Olive and Avocado
Do you have thin or brittle nails? For a simple and natural solution, dab a little olive or avocado oil before bed. Your nails will soften overnight and be nourished with healthy fatty acids. You can use other types of oil for this as well.
Sesame
Could you replace mouthwash with oil? It’s trendy, but oil pulling or swishing oil in your mouth is an ancient remedy for healthy teeth and gums. Research shows it might help. Recent international studies have found that sesame oil (and coconut and sunflower oil) can reduce plaque and gingivitis. It may also rinse away microorganisms that cause bad breath.
