How do beauty oils work for you

How do beauty oils work for you

Oils used in massage and aroma techniques are natural and come with a host of benefits. Read on to know which oil would suit you best...

Tired after a long week? Opt for an oil massage. This doesn't just induce relaxation, but also boosts your immune system. The smooth, circular and gliding motions of a massage disperses the oil evenly and dissolves toxins and stress build-up. It keeps the joints flexible and boosts circulation. Indian massage oils like Bhringraj and Brahmi oil are popular.

Kinds of massage oils and benefits
Almond oil: Great for dry skin
Coconut oil: Adds moisture to the skin, softens rough areas
Olive oil: Has vitamin E, smoothens skin
Apricot kernel oil: Reduces stress
Jojoba oil: Has anti-bacterial properties and is apt for those with back acne

What are essential oils?
The age-old practice of aromatherapy is another holistic treatment. It uses essential oils which are concentrated extracts of herbs, bark, flowers and leaves to bring about a calming and stimulating effect to the skin. Aroma oils are said to help ageing skin, breakouts as well as give relief to tired muscles. Lavender oil, one of the most popular essential oils, is said to aid sleep. Another, tea tree oil, acts as a very good antiseptic. Using essential oils also calms the mind and brings about a sense of well-being. Different fragrance oils have different effects on people.

Which one suits you?
Eucalyptus: For stress relief
Black pepper (Piper nigrum) or ginger essential oils: Reduces arthritis pain and improves flexibility of joints.
Lavender oil: Calms the nervous system and thus aids relaxation.
Rose oil: Improves skin and the hormone balance.
Clove oil: Apart from being a choice in treatment of dental troubles, clove oil can also help treat cuts and scrapes.
Lemon oil: Is the flu doing the rounds in your workplace? Diffuse lemon essential oil around the office.

How they work
One has to use a diffuser in which the essential oil is heated. This allows the molecules to be released into the atmosphere. When a certain molecule enters the nose, it triggers off the olfactory nerve, which travels to the part of the brain that has the charge of emotions and memory. Thus, inhaling different oils can alter one's mood and stimulate the senses. If you've had a tiring journey or a packed work schedule, treat yourself to an aromatherapy bath! Choose oils like chamomile, rose, sage or bergamot which can be added to the bath. They relax the body, open pores and detoxify the skin.

Word of caution:
1. Always use essential oils sparingly as they are strong. Never take them internally.
2. A few individuals could be allergic to nuts or a few flower extracts. Look for 'hypoallergenic' oils
.