NATURAL BEAUTY

WISE WOMEN (AND MEN) USE FRANKINCENSE AND MYRRH

By Patricia Danflous

Shailene Woodley is in the headlines these days. Not for her strong environmental stance. Not for her award-winning performance in "Divergent, " "The Fault in Our Stars" or "The Secret Life of the American Teenager." She’s making news with her cosmetic choices.

One of an increasing number of celebrities, and regular people, using essential oils and plant-based products, the young actress is staining her lips with beets. The trendy natural beauty focus is nothing new. Cleopatra, Queen Elizabeth I and Scarlett O’Hara used the oils derived from plants to add color to their faces, restore a youthful glow to the skin and treat a variety of skin problems.

According to natural beauty proponent Macie Walker, a registered nurse in Austin, Texas, "Essential oils can be an ideal holistic, therapeutic and effective alternative for soothing and refreshing the body,” she said. “Oils are known to promote a clear complexion, add shine to hair and address the signs of aging.”

Essential oils go a long way. A drop or two diluted in water or lemon juice, for example, provides an inexpensive foundation for beautiful skin. Use this mini-guide and if you like the results, research and expand your base.

Frankincense

• minimizes the appearance of wrinkles, dark spots and scars • not sun-sensitive • alternative to retinolbased products

Myrrh

• moisturizes and soothes dry skin • anti-aging impact

Lavender

• anti-inflammatory • good for bites and itchy rashes

Rose

• alternative to hyaluronic acid • moisturizes • effective on aging skin

Carrot Seed

• boosts cell regeneration • minimizes scars • reduces wrinkles

Purchase essential oils online, from organic food stores, specialty spas and salons or directly from salespersons representing such companies as Young Living Essential Oils.

Grape Seed

• helps acne-prone skin

Olive

• improves aging skin • soothes dry skin • relieves eczema

Tea Tree

• a go-to for treating acne, dandruff, lice, insect bites and nail fungus

Patchouli

• smooths fine lines and wrinkles • treats eczema, acne, psoriasis and dermatitis • promotes new cell growth

Ylang Ylang

• controls acne • regenerates skin cells • minimizes fine lines and wrinkles