llywood star Shraddha Kapoor recently revealed her secret for achieving radiant skin: essential oils.
In a candid interview with Elle magazine, Kapoor admitted to using these potent plant extracts both on their own and in personalized blends. This sparked renewed interest in the centuries-old practice of harnessing the power of essential oils for beauty.
And while essential oils have become increasingly popular in skincare routines, experts emphasize the importance of understanding their potent nature.
"Essential oils are brimming with the essence of plants—their scent, flavor, and unique beneficial properties captured in concentrated form," explains Dr. Rishi Parashar, chairperson of dermatology at Sir Ganga Ram Hospital in New Delhi.
Dr. Parashar further clarifies that these oils are extracted through distillation methods, using steam or water, or mechanical processes like cold pressing.
"Once the fragrant compounds are isolated, they are meticulously combined with a carrier oil to create a product suitable for topical use," he adds.
Dr. Shireen Furtado, senior consultant in medical and cosmetic dermatology at Aster CMI Hospital in Bengaluru, notes that essential oils have long been valued in aromatherapy, skincare, and holistic health practices due to their therapeutic potential.
"When it comes to skincare, essential oils boast a range of benefits, from moisturizing and reducing inflammation to combating specific skin conditions," she shares.
Proceed With Caution
Despite their natural origins, both Dr. Furtado and Dr. Parashar caution against assuming safety solely based on a plant-based origin.
"Just because something is natural doesn’t automatically make it safe," Dr. Parashar warns. "Plants and herbal products contain a complex blend of bioactive compounds. Some of these compounds can indeed be harmful to health, and essential oils are no exception."
He assures that when inhaled or properly diluted with a base oil for topical application, most essential oils are considered safe.
However, both experts stress the importance of being mindful of potential side effects, which can range from mild skin irritation and rashes to more severe allergic reactions and respiratory issues, especially when oils are applied directly or inhaled in concentrated form.
Essential Oil Safety Tips:
Dr. Parashar highlights oils like lavender, peppermint, tea tree, and ylang-ylang as common culprits behind adverse reactions. Additionally, he cautions that oils high in phenols, such as cinnamon, can irritate skin and should always be mixed with a base oil. Citrus-based oils, he warns, can increase skin sensitivity to sunlight, leading to sunburn.
Choosing Your Essential Oil:
Selecting the right essential oil depends on your individual skin type and concerns:
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Dry Skin: Lavender and geranium oils are often recommended for their hydrating and soothing properties, which can help restore moisture balance.
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Oily Skin: Tea tree and rosemary are natural astringents and antibacterial agents, making them suitable for regulating sebum production and preventing breakouts.
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Combination Skin: Find oils that balance hydration and oil control. Lavender, geranium, tea tree, frankincense, and chamomile are good options.
- Sensitive Skin: Chamomile and frankincense are calming and anti-inflammatory, making them ideal for soothing irritation and promoting skin health.
How to Use Essential Oils Safely:
According to Dr. Furtado, essential oils can be enjoyed through diffusion, dispersing their fragrance into the air for an aromatherapy experience, or through topical application. "When applying topically, always dilute the essential oil with a carrier oil like coconut or jojoba oil and gently massage onto clean skin, avoiding sensitive areas like the eyes."
A patch test on a small area of skin is always recommended before widespread application.
Remember, less is more! Always use essential oils sparingly and avoid over-application. Target specific areas where you desire results: tea tree oil for acne, lavender for calming irritated skin, or frankincense for promoting skin regeneration.
Essential Oils: More Than Just a Beauty Trend:
Incorporating essential oils into your skincare routine can be beneficial, but it’s essential to do so wisely. Always research the properties of each oil, choose high-quality products, and consult with a healthcare professional, especially if you have sensitive skin or underlying medical conditions.
## Essential Oils for Glowing Skin: A deep Dive with Expert Dermatologists
**WorldTodayNews.com Exclusive Interview**
Bollywood star Shraddha Kapoor recently revealed her secret to radiant skin: essential oils. This sparked renewed interest in using these potent plant extracts for skincare. But are essential oils a miracle cure, or should we proceed with caution?
We spoke to two leading dermatologists, dr. Rishi Parashar, Chairperson of Dermatology at Sir Ganga Ram Hospital in New Delhi, and Dr. Shireen Furtado, Senior Consultant in Medical and Cosmetic Dermatology at Aster CMI Hospital in Bengaluru, to understand the benefits and risks of incorporating essential oils into our skincare routines.
**WorldTodayNews:** Dr. Parashar,can you explain what essential oils are and how they are extracted?
**Dr. Parashar:** Essential oils are like the concentrated essence of plants. They capture the unique scent, flavor, and beneficial properties of the plant in a highly concentrated form. for example, the oil of lavender captures the soothing and calming properties of the lavender flower.
Extracting these potent compounds involves various methods. Distillation, using steam or water, and mechanical processes like cold pressing are common techniques.Once extracted, essential oils are often diluted with a carrier oil like coconut oil or almond oil, making them safe for topical application.
**WorldTodayNews:** Dr. Furtado, how do essential oils benefit our skin?
**Dr. Furtado:** Essential oils have been valued for centuries in aromatherapy, skincare, and holistic health practices due to their therapeutic potential.
when it comes to skincare, different essential oils offer specific benefits. For instance,
* **Lavender oil:** Known for its calming and anti-inflammatory properties, can soothe irritated skin and promote wound healing.
* **Tea tree oil:** Possesses antibacterial and antifungal properties, making it beneficial for acne-prone skin.
* **Rosehip oil:** rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, can help reduce hyperpigmentation and promote collagen production, leading to more youthful-looking skin.
**WorldTodayNews:** Shraddha Kapoor seems to be promoting the mixing and matching of essential oils. Is this safe?
**Dr. Parashar:** While experimenting can be tempting, it’s crucial to proceed cautiously. Essential oils are highly concentrated and can cause irritation or allergic reactions if not used correctly.
It’s best to start with one essential oil and test it on a small area of skin before incorporating it into your entire routine.If you experience any redness, itching, or discomfort, discontinue use promptly.
**WorldTodayNews:** What are the main risks associated with using essential oils?
**Dr. Furtado:**
The biggest misconception is that as essential oils are natural, they are inherently safe. This is simply not true. Some oils are phototoxic, meaning they can increase the skin’s sensitivity to sunlight. Others can be irritating or allergenic, especially for those with sensitive skin. Ti弾
* **Patch Test:** always perform a patch test before using a new essential oil, even if it’s diluted.
* **Dilution:** Essential oils should never be applied directly to the skin. Always dilute them in a carrier oil before use.
* **Consult a Dermatologist:** if you have any skin conditions or concerns, consult a dermatologist before using essential oils.
**worldtodaynews:** What would your final advice be to someone wanting to incorporate essential oils into their skincare routine?
**Dr. Parashar:** Essential oils can be a valuable addition to a skincare regimen when used responsibly. Choose high-quality oils from reputable sources and always dilute them properly. Listen to your body, and if you experience any adverse reactions, discontinue use and consult a dermatologist.
**Dr. Furtado:** Remember, essential oils are not a magical cure-all.They work best when combined with a balanced diet, regular exercise, and a good skincare routine tailored to your individual needs.
