Face creams, oils and lotion for aromatherapy
For the face, essential oils should be mixed with base oils in much the same way as for massage, the main difference being more nourishing oils such as apricot kernel and avocado should be used in preference to ordinary vegetable oils. (It should be noted that avocado is fairly heavy oil and its use is best reserved for dry skin.) Essential oils can also be added to a non-perfumed cold cream or lotion and used for problem complexions.
Most essential oils have antiseptic properties and can be used to treat infective skin conditions. Certain oils (such as rose and neroli) are anti-inflammatory and have a soothing effect, whereas sandalwood is useful in the treatment of superficial mature skins. For dry cracked skin, the addition of wheatgerm and avocado oil (with their high vitamin E content) to preparations will relieve the condition. In general, aromatherapy can improve the skin by encouraging toxin removal, stimulating cell growth and renewal and improving circulation. A gentle circular massage with the tips of the fingers should be used on the face, and special care must be taken not to stretch or drag the delicate skin around the eye area.