The best essential oils to improve your complexion

It's time to get clued up, then oiled up.

It's not our heads that are hurting today

by Jade Moscrop |
Updated on

While we're ecstatic that the world of skincare products has expanded exponentially in recent years, we can't deny that we're a little lost in terms of what we should be putting where.

We've all heard the benefits of essential oils*, but with so many to choose from, where do you start?

Luckily for us, Beauty Flash co-founder and beauty therapist, Lisa de-la-Plain, has shared her top tips on the best essential oils for your skin.

*Always ensure you use a carrier oil with pure essential oils if using on your skin.

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Organic Rosemary Oil

Not just a delicious addition to your roast potatoes, rosemary can also be used in skincare.

Lisa explains, "A powerful antioxidant, organic rosemary oil can be used to combat premature ageing. By increasing the skin’s elasticity, it reduces sagging and age spots.

"Found as a key ingredient in Medik8’s Gentle Cleanse, it removes impurities without stripping the skin’s natural, essential moisture; leaving even the most sensitive skin refreshed and glowing."

Tea Tree Oil

Ah, tea tree oil - our old faithful. Known best for its effects on oily and acne-prone skin, many of us swore by this in our high school days.

Lisa says, "Along with its anti-inflammatory properties, tea tree oil can help eliminate breakout-causing bacteria and congestion.

"Look for a cleanser that includes tea tree oil like Dermalogica’s Medibac Clearing Skin Wash. This non-irritating, naturally foaming cleanser is the perfect start to around-the-clock control of breakout and excess surface oils."

Tea tree oil in pipette
©Photo: Getty Images

Rosehip Oil

Rosehip oil has become a bit of a buzzword recently, and for good reason. It's perfect for keeping your skin hydrated, especially in the colder months.

"Rosehip oil is a great alternative to moisturiser due to its non-greasy properties making it suitable for all skin types. It has nourishing fatty acids, anti-ageing properties and key vitamins to give the skin a natural boost," explains Lisa.

"Try massaging an even layer of Balance Me Super Moisturising Body Oil for a smoother and softer body. The bespoke blend of neroli, starflower and rosehip oils will firm, nourish and deeply hydrate the skin all over."

Lavender Oil

Got blemish-prone skin? You're not alone. If it's stressing you out, look to lavender oil to calm and repair.

"It also has soothing benefits, making it great for dry or oily skin sufferers too. As the temperature continues to drop, you can introduce lavender oil into your routine with the likes of Decleor Lavender Fine Rich Day Cream.

"An anti-ageing, luxurious day cream uses active ingredients like lavender oil to help, moisturise, repair and regenerate skin throughout the day, leaving you with perfectly smooth and supple complexion."

Lavender oil and flowers
©Photo: Getty Images

Sweet Orange Essential Oil

If your skin is lacking the bounce it once had, sweet orange could be ideal for you.

Lisa says, "One for those who look to slow down the ageing process, sweet orange essential oil is known to boost circulation and collagen levels, while fighting dark spots and blemishes.

"Used in Decléor’s Hydra Floral White Petal Skin Perfecting Hydrating Sleeping Mask, this light gel mask reduces pigmentation and refines skin texture overnight. Wake up to transformed skin that feels fresh, plumped and glowing."

Neroli Essential Oil

One of the lesser-known oils out there, neroli oil is a pretty spectacular addition to your skincare routine.

According to Lisa, "This bitter orange oil will provide your skin with a protective barrier to ensure your complexion remains radiant and dewy all day long.

"Look to see if neroli essential oil is included in primers, like Balance Me’s Hyaluronic Plumping Primer as it works to keep skin calm, eliminating redness and creating a flawless base for makeup."

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