The uses of aromatherapy are many. We use it to reduce stress, unwind our minds, invigorate our bodies, and general reduce the impact of physical and mental exertion on our bodies. Aromatherapy is mostly used to induce a feeling of well-being. Applied to our skin, aromatherapy has several ways that it can benefit us.
Facial aromatherapy is probably the first type of skin care that comes to mind for most people, simply because that's where most skin treatments are focused. This type of skin care consists of essential oils, lotions, and creams that cleanse and hydrate the skin, and open up pores.
Facial aromatherapy skin care has this in common with all other types of skin care regimes; you have to know what type of skin you have and select the products you use accordingly. There are four main types of skin; normal to combination, dry, oily and sensitive.
All types of aromatherapy consist of different types of essential oils that work harmoniously with your body's system to give you the desired results.
For example, using sage and orange peel extracts in a shower gel will not only help with refreshing your skin, it will also invigorate your senses as the hot shower releases the beautiful aromas in the oils.
Bergamot is helpful for skin conditions such as cold sores and chicken pox, particularly when united with eucalyptus oil. Black pepper fuels circulation, which makes it ideal when applied to skin bruises. Lavender oil is also useful for soothing minor cuts and burns in the skin.
When using aromatherapy oils, it is very important never to apply undiluted oils to your skin. Undiluted oils are generally very strong and can burn your skin or produce a severe rash, and that is the last thing you need to do to your skin. Always read the label carefully and follow the instructions for the best results.
Most department stores carry aromatherapy skin care products, usually in the cosmetic section. You can also find these products in niche stores that focus specifically on aromatic and/or natural products, such as the Body Shop, Sephora and Bath and Body Works.
Author: Stacey Landry
