Summer is synonymous with sun, warmth, and days spent outdoors. However, these summer pleasures can put a strain on your skin. UV rays, dry wind, and intense heat can cause significant damage, ranging from sunburn to premature skin aging. Fortunately, essential oils offer a natural and effective solution to protect your skin from these summer aggressors.
Essential oils, thanks to their anti-inflammatory, soothing, and regenerative properties, are true allies for preserving your skin during the summer. Whether you're new to aromatherapy or an essential oil enthusiast, this article will guide you through choosing and using the right essential oils for your skin. Discover how to incorporate these precious plant extracts into your summer routine to fully enjoy the sun while maintaining healthy and radiant skin.
Risks of the sun for the skin
- Sunburn and its consequences
Sunburn is an acute skin reaction to UV rays. Excessive unprotected sun exposure can lead to painful skin burns, increasing long-term skin risks. UVB rays are primarily responsible for sunburn, while UVA rays penetrate deeper, causing long-term damage.
- Premature aging
The sun is one of the main factors in premature skin aging. UV rays accelerate the breakdown of collagen and elastin, leading to the appearance of wrinkles, dark spots, and a loss of firmness. This phenomenon, called photoaging, is irreversible and can be reduced by regularly using essential oils with regenerative properties.
The impact of wind and heat
- Skin dehydration
Wind and heat contribute to skin dehydration. Excessive water evaporation due to high temperatures and windy conditions leaves skin dry, irritated, and more susceptible to external aggressors. Applying certain essential oils can help restore and maintain skin hydration.
- Increased sebum production
Heat stimulates the sebaceous glands, increasing sebum production. Oily skin can lead to blemishes and breakouts, especially if it's not properly cleansed and cared for. Certain essential oils, thanks to their balancing properties, can help regulate sebum production and maintain healthy skin.
By understanding these summer stressors, you can better protect your skin and reap the benefits of the right essential oils. These precious natural allies can not only prevent damage but also repair and revitalize your skin after a day in the sun.
4 essential oils to protect and enhance the skin
True lavender, the regenerator
True lavender essential oil is known for its soothing, healing, and regenerative properties. It is ideal for relieving sunburn and minor skin irritations caused by prolonged sun exposure.
- Practical advice : Add a few drops of true lavender essential oil to a carrier oil (such as apricot oil) and apply to sunburn or minor skin irritations for a soothing and regenerating effect.
- Precautions : Not suitable for pregnant women under 3 months, or infants under 3 months.
Roman chamomile, the calming one
Roman chamomile essential oil has anti-inflammatory and calming properties. It is particularly effective at soothing skin redness and irritation. This oil is perfect for sensitive skin that suffers from summer aggressions.
- Helpful Tip : Mix 2 drops of Roman Chamomile essential oil with a teaspoon of carrier oil and apply to red or irritated areas of skin to soothe inflammation.
- Precautions : Not suitable for pregnant women under 3 months - Nor for infants under 3 months.
Rose geranium, the balancing one
Rose geranium essential oil is renowned for its astringent and balancing properties. It is ideal for dehydrated and sensitive skin, especially after prolonged exposure to sun and wind. It tightens skin tissue, helps regulate sebum production, and promotes skin cell regeneration. This essential oil is also appreciated for its pleasant floral scent, which adds a touch of luxury to your skincare routine.
- Helpful Hint : Mix 2 drops of Rose Geranium essential oil with 1/2 teaspoon of Jojoba carrier oil and apply to the face to moisturize and balance the skin.
- Precautions : Not suitable for pregnant women under 3 months - Nor for children under 3 years old - Do not apply pure.
Neroli, the revitalizing one
Neroli essential oil is excellent for revitalizing dull, tired skin. Its regenerative properties help restore radiance to the skin. Neroli is also effective in reducing the signs of skin aging and soothing irritated skin.
- Practical advice : Add 1 to 2 drops of Neroli essential oil to your night cream to benefit from its regenerative and revitalizing properties.
- Precautions : Not suitable for pregnant women under 3 months - Nor for children under 3 years old - Do not apply pure.
Simple and effective synergies for the skin
Soothing after-sun formula
Ingredients
- 30 ml of apricot vegetable oil
- 10 drops of true lavender essential oil
- 5 drops of Roman Chamomile essential oil
Preparation
- In a 30 ml amber glass bottle, add the drops of True Lavender essential oil and Roman Chamomile essential oil, then add the vegetable oil.
- Close the bottle and shake gently to mix the essential oils well with the vegetable oil.
Using synergy
After sun exposure, apply a few drops to irritated or sunburned areas. Massage gently until completely absorbed. This formula will soothe skin and reduce redness thanks to the calming and regenerative properties of True Lavender and Roman Chamomile.
It is a gentle and effective solution to help your skin recover after prolonged sun exposure.
Refreshing facial spray
Ingredients
- 100 ml of distilled water or rose floral water
- 10 drops of rose geranium essential oil
- 5 drops of Neroli essential oil
- 1 teaspoon of vegetable glycerin (optional, useful for better hydration)
Preparation
- In a 100 ml spray bottle, add the drops of Rose Geranium and Neroli essential oils, then add the distilled water or rose floral water. If using vegetable glycerin, add it.
- Close the bottle and shake gently to mix the ingredients.
Using synergy
Spray the spray on your face, avoiding the eye area, to refresh and hydrate your skin. Use it on hot days or after sun exposure.
This recipe is not only refreshing but also enriching for the skin, thanks to the hydrating and regenerative properties of Rose Geranium and Neroli. You can store the spray in the refrigerator for an even more intense feeling of freshness.
General precautions
- Dilution : Always dilute the synergy before skin application to avoid any irritation.
- Tolerance test : Before use, carry out a skin tolerance test by applying a small amount of the diluted synergy to the inside of the elbow and wait 24 hours to check for an allergic reaction.
- Medical consultation : In case of pregnancy, breastfeeding, or specific medical conditions, consult a health professional before using the synergy.
Other essential actions to protect your skin
- Internal hydration
Maintaining proper hydration is crucial for healthy, glowing skin during the summer. Drink enough water throughout the day to help your skin stay hydrated from the inside out. Fresh fruit juices and herbal infusions are also beneficial for boosting hydration.
- Protective clothing
Wear lightweight, supportive clothing and a wide-brimmed hat to protect your face and body from harmful UV rays. Choose natural fabrics, such as cotton, which allow your skin to breathe while providing protection from the sun.
- Foods rich in antioxidants
Include antioxidant-rich foods, such as colorful fruits and vegetables, berries, nuts, and seeds, in your diet. These foods help fight free radicals produced by sun exposure, helping to keep your skin looking youthful and healthy.
By incorporating the right essential oils into your summer routine, you can naturally and effectively maintain the health and beauty of your skin. Dive into these synergies, apply these practical tips, and fully enjoy summer while preserving the youthfulness and health of your skin.
Beautiful, resplendent, protected and sublime summer!
Sources of information (bibliography):
Julien Kaibeck, Adopt slow cosmetics, Éditions Leduc, June 11, 2018, 256 p. ISBN: 9791028503130
Video: “Rose Geranium - the essential oil for the skin” with Dr. Françoise Couic-Marinier
Maison Jacynthe disclaims all liability. All information contained on this page is not intended to replace justified allopathic treatment or to disregard the expertise of the medical profession. It is up to each individual to take charge of their own health, to inform themselves, and to make the necessary changes to improve their condition. Therapeutic supervision by a qualified healthcare professional is obviously recommended.
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