Features of body oils
Unlike lotions that contain large amounts of water, natural oils are less readily absorbed. Preservatives are added to most body products so that bacteria do not multiply in them, and there is nothing superfluous in the oils. They do not penetrate the skin with water, but create a layer on its surface. Lotions are more suitable for oily skin, as they provide light hydration, and oils can cope even with severe dryness, including on the elbows and knees. For maximum effect, apply to damp skin.
In recent years, the cosmetics market has been actively developing, experts are increasingly turning to organic products that do not contain harmful impurities. Rajani Katta, M. D., assistant professor and certified dermatologist at Baylor College of Medicine, believes natural oils are popular because they rarely cause allergic reactions and are very effective.
Coconut oil
Copra oil is known for its nutritional properties. He has many uses: in cooking, cosmetology and for cleaning the house. Coconut oil has antibacterial properties, so it can be used as an alternative to topical antibiotics, promotes wound healing and works as an antioxidant. It moisturizes well and removes flaking. The scent of coconut oil is associated with a holiday in paradise islands. Sanil Chulukuri, M. D. and founder of Refresh Dermatology, claims that coconut oil is high in essential fatty acids and antioxidants, but it clogs pores, so people with oily skin are better off ditching it for other options.
Almond oil
A popular cosmetic ingredient with mild soothing properties. It helps prevent moisture loss, making it suitable for hair, body and face. Almond oil contains vitamin E, which protects against ultraviolet radiation and premature aging. It does this by reducing, firstly, DNA damage, and secondly, the amount of chemical structural changes in the skin caused by sunlight. A study of 160 women confirmed that almond oil helps prevent stretch marks on the skin, relieve itching and redness. In addition, it can be used for massage and makeup removal.
Evening primrose oil
This oil also has a more prosaic name - donkey, because the petals of the flower from which it is obtained resemble donkey ears. The peculiarity of this plant is that its flowering period lasts less than a day. Evening primrose oil helps with long-term systematic use. It contains high concentration of omega-6 polyunsaturated fatty acids and has good anti-inflammatory properties. Primrose oil fights acne, strengthens the skin's lipid barrier, retains moisture, regulates oil production, and prevents infections. It is suitable for external and internal use and is also sold as a non-medicinal food supplement.
Olive oil
This oil usually does not cause allergies, but virgin varieties should be preferred. Olives contain vitamins A, E, D and K. Research published in the journal Nanomaterials and Nanotechnology confirms its high moisturizing qualities. Creams, lotions and soaps are created on the basis of olive oil for gentle cleansing of the skin. It neutralizes the action of free radicals, preventing early skin aging and wrinkles, as well as protects against sunburn, softens, fights bacteria and has exfoliating properties. Try making a natural olive oil scrub by mixing it with salt or sugar. In addition, olive oil is beneficial to apply after sunburn: scientists have conducted experiments, which have concluded that olive oil is especially beneficial for the skin after sun exposure.
Grape seed oil
Grape seed oil is less fatty than most popular oils used in cosmetology. It is easily absorbed, yet high in fatty acids and contains vitamin E. According to an article in Nutrition and Metabolic Insights, grape seed oil has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. It is used less frequently for the skin than, for example, jojoba and olive oil, but it is also high in antioxidants. The product provides cleansing and fights bacteria that cause irritation and acne. Grape seed oil is used to soften and increase skin elasticity. Research has shown that this is an excellent deep hydration product that does not cause allergies.
Cacao butter
This butter is made from cocoa beans and is used to make desserts. But it can also be a great beauty product. Cocoa butter has been used medicinally since the Mayan and Aztec times, and modern scientists confirm that it helps maintain healthy skin and prevent stretch marks. Cocoa butter contains fatty acids and moisturizes well. It is a suitable product for increasing elasticity and creating a protective barrier on the skin. The photochemical compounds in cocoa butter increase blood flow, thereby slowing down blood aging. The use of the product helps to smooth out fine wrinkles and protects against the harmful effects of ultraviolet radiation. A separate bonus is a subtle sweet aroma that uplifts the mood.
Jojoba oil
This oil is made from the seeds of a shrub plant. Jojoba has good moisturizing properties. It helps protect the skin from germs and fungi. Laboratory tests confirm that jojoba oil kills certain types of bacteria that cause salmonella and candidiasis. In addition, it is non-comedogenic and contains a lot of vitamin E, which works as an antioxidant. Jojoba oil helps fight oxidative stress caused by the harmful effects of toxins. It is hypoallergenic and regulates the production of sebum, as it does not activate the sweat glands when applied. Studies have shown that applying antioxidants to the skin promotes the production of collagen, a protein found in all body tissues.
Sunflower oil
It is not only exotic extracts that can help make the skin beautiful. Common sunflower oil also has many health benefits. For example, it contains many vitamins A and E, which, like other oils, protect the skin and promote wound healing. These substances act as antioxidants and help get rid of acne and inflammation caused by bacteria. Sunflower oil is light and non-greasy, so it is quickly absorbed and does not clog pores. It is ideal for sensitive skin as a natural moisturizer. The only drawback of unrefined sunflower oil is a rich culinary smell, which many do not like, unlike, for example, the subtle coconut aroma. However, sunflower oil is great for home treatments. A small study on 19 volunteers showedthat sunflower oil moisturizes the skin better than olive oil and maintains the integrity of the top layer.
#instructions: how to restore the skin after self-isolation.