Aromatherapy Skin Care Product

The Benefits of Aromatherapy

A long soak in the tub is the perfect ending to a long day. On a chilly winter morning, there's nothing better than a cup of sweet tea. And nothing beats a visit to the spa for a long-awaited massage. These little moments in life all make us feel pretty darn good. They relax the senses, stimulate the mood and lift the spirit in a way that few other things really can. Aromatherapy is a major component of these benefits.

In addition to relaxing the mind and body, aromatherapy also:

• Relieves physical discomfort
• Stimulates the immune system
• Eases muscular aches and pains
• Combat insomnia
• Reduce stress levels
• Aid in dealing with strong emotions

The Role of Essential Oils

The shelves aren't exactly overflowing with aromatherapy-based skin care products, but these items are quickly becoming more widely available online and at select specialty boutiques. The benefits of aromatherapy are simply too great to ignore, and manufacturers are taking advantage of this fact by infusing their products with essential oils.

These therapeutic oils not only smell great, they're also essential elements of a skin care regimen designed to treat specific ailments. Even if you don't necessarily suffer from any particular issue, you can still enjoy the aromatic, soothing properties of these oils. When they are properly diluted and prepared for use on the skin, oil-based products (such as lotions, mineral baths, massage oils and body washes) are readily dissolved into and absorbed by the skin's protective sebum.

Aromatherapy for Different Skin Types

What's your skin type? Just like every skin type is different, so too are essential oils. Each offers a different benefit, and some are more appropriate for some skin types than others.

Normal

If you're blessed with that seemingly elusive "normal" skin type, you're in luck. Almost any skin-safe essential oil will work for you. Lavender is the most versatile and universal of oils, and its properties are beneficial to all skin types.

Dry and Sensitive

Keep dry skin lubricated and nourished with an impressive combination of essential oils. German and Roman chamomile, geranium, patchouli, lavender, rose absolute, neroli, jasmine, sandalwood and carrot seed are all recommended. If your skin is sensitive, avoid using high percentage oils as they may cause adverse reactions. Avoid spicy scents, such as cinnamon, at all costs.

Oily and Combination

Oily and combination skin types require aromatherapy products that reduce the production of excess sebum and create a harmonious balance. Antiseptic essential oils are especially effective. Recommended oils include pink grapefruit, geranium, lavender, juniper berry, ylang ylang, myrtle, cypress and peppermint.

Mature and Aging

Though aging skin can't be avoided completely, the right essential oils can help slow down the process, hydrate the skin and restore skin tone. Frankincense, carrot seed, patchouli, myrrh, rose absolute and sandalwood are highly recommended.

Where to Purchase an Aromatherapy Skin Care Product

Though you may spot the odd aromatherapy skin care product at your local drugstore or beauty salon, you'll find a much more diverse selection on the Internet. That's because there are a handful of specialty Web sites devoted to organic products based in the tradition of aromatherapy and its healing properties.

• L'Occitane is one of the world's most renowned beauty brands. The company specializes in natural products that follow the principles of aromatherapy.
• Jakare offers organic products for the face and body. They tout their Simple Daily Ritual (cleanse, hydrate, protect and moisturize) and the foundation for healthy skin.
• Decleor specializes in elegant skin care products formulated for various types. Each contains a potent concentration of essential oils.
• Saffron Rouge offers everything an aromatherapy fanatic could possibly want – all in one spot. Select from a wide variety of brands and products.