Natural Oils—a Simply Perfect Skin Solution

Natural Oils

A SIMPLY PERFECT SKIN SOLUTION

Lotions aren’t the only option for moisturizing your parched Arizona skin.

Natural oils for skin have much to recommend them as a moisturizer — “natural” means no synthetic ingredients or preservatives, for one thing. Oils are better at moisture retention and repairing the skin’s moisture barrier, deliver easily absorbed nutrients and guard against free radicals and environmental stressors. If you’re considering making the switch to these natural wonders, here are some you might consider:

ARGAN OIL This ancient oil from Morocco is a great all-around performer that moisturizes your skin (on all parts of the body), hair, scalp and nails. Its high antioxidant, fatty acid and vitamin E levels make it perfect for protection against sun damage. Argan oil’s hairrejuvenating abilities are legendary; adding elasticity and shine, taming frizz and neutralizing hair damage.

COCONUT OIL Although its tendency to clog pores can be an issue for those with oily skin, this oil excels at locking in hydration as well as taming itching and redness from eczema, dermatitis and similar conditions. It also reduces inflammation from sun damage and offers some protection from ultraviolet rays, albeit not enough to replace your sunscreen.

GRAPESEED OIL Its dietary profile also is a list of what makes it great for skin: lots of betacarotene, vitamins C, D and E and essential fatty acids. These particular acids — palmitic, linoleic and stearic — excel at reducing wrinkles and shrinking and fading scars. It leads to smooth and supple skin and its antimicrobial qualities have made it a top choice for anti-acne treatment. MARULA OIL Beyond its moisturizing capabilities, marula is an excellent emollient sealing microscopic cracks in your skin without the comedogenic properties of coconut oil. It has plenty of fatty acids that soften and nourish the skin, with a profile that closely resembles our skin’s naturally occurring oils. Its anti-aging work on fine lines and wrinkles is commendable, and its oleic acid content is masterful at regulating oil production.

PUMPKIN SEED OIL Splendid for this season and every other! Omegas 3, 5, 6, 7 and 9 await to promote skin elasticity for a bouncy, vibrant effect. It also jumpstarts skin cell regeneration enough to boost collagen fade stretch marks and other blemishes. It also has high levels of zinc and vitamin E, which accelerate wound healing, fight acne and improve skin tone. It’s also able to speed up hair growth while boosting its shine and overall health.

ROSEHIP OIL One of our most valuable players for any skin type, which makes it especially important for those with sensitive skin. This oil has high essential fatty acid content to aid regeneration and repair. It hydrates, promotes such anti-aging qualities as elasticity, brightens and evens out the skin, builds collagen — basically anything you could ask for from a natural oil you’re putting on your skin.

SANDALWOOD OIL A go-to acne remedy for generations, sandalwood oil’s benefits extend to anti-aging by smoothing wrinkles and tightening skin that’s begun to sag, It’s soothing and restorative for those with eczema and psoriasis and helps to even skin tone after hyperpigmentation. It can also be found in powdered form and is found in many soaps and floral waters.