Plant-based Oils for Natural Skin Care

Hello Beauty!

Rose Hip Seeds

Face and body oils are a staple in my natural beauty routine. These plant-based oils provide deep nourishment and hydration for my skin, helping to restore its natural moisture balance. In addition to cleansing and purifying, they effectively remove makeup without harsh chemicals. As an added benefit, some of these oils offer natural, light SPF protection, making them a versatile part of my skincare routine. These oils are also an excellent source of Omega-3s, essential fatty acids that play a crucial role in maintaining healthy, vibrant skin. Since our bodies cannot produce Omega-3s on their own, it's important to obtain them through our diet or topical applications, often referred to as "skin food." By delivering these vital nutrients directly to the skin, these oils help enhance elasticity, reduce inflammation, and promote a radiant complexion.

I consider beauty products to be "skin food" because the epidermis, our largest and most porous organ, absorbs much of what we apply to it. This vital organ not only helps detoxify the body but also plays a significant role in maintaining our skin tone and overall health. That's why I prefer simple, minimal-ingredient beauty products—less is truly more. I'm mindful about what I put on my skin, following the rule that if I don’t feel comfortable ingesting it, it has no place on my skin either.

While I enjoy costume design, face paint, and glitter, on special occasions, simplicity is key for everyday beauty. Face and body oils have become my go-to for skincare, moisturizing, and even makeup removal. With numerous choices available, I've decided to spotlight some of my favorite oils, detailing their benefits, and uses, and recommending some products I love.

Plant oils

Plant oils are natural, nutrient-rich extracts that offer numerous benefits for skin health and beauty. Packed with essential fatty acids, vitamins, and antioxidants, they help nourish, hydrate, and protect the skin. From cleansing and moisturizing to providing light sun protection, plant oils are versatile, gentle, and a great alternative to chemical-laden skincare products.

• Argan oil

  This is the ultimate skin superfood that is rich in vitamin E, proteins, and essential fatty acids. This oil is super moisturizing, helps to diminish the appearance of fine lines, and boosts texture and tone. It is lightweight and easily absorbed which makes it a great choice for hair, skin, and nails! My favorite Argan oil is a blend from Marie Veronique.

• Apricot seed oil

  Apricot seed oil is absorbed into the skin effortlessly, helping to replenish moisture quickly and leaving your skin soft and smooth. Its lightweight texture makes it an excellent choice for daily use without feeling greasy or clogging pores. Rich in vitamins A and E, this oil nourishes and protects the skin, making it ideal for sensitive or dry skin types. Whether added to a relaxing bath or applied directly, apricot seed oil helps improve skin elasticity and promotes a radiant, healthy glow.

• Baobab oil

  This oil is from the Baobab fruit trees that grow in Africa. These trees’ lifespan is on average 500 years old but the oldest found was 5000 years! The oil has a light and nutty scent to it and it is a great moisturizer without clogging pores. It is stock-full of vitamins for the skin, cosmetic use only though. You have to check out Mountain Rose Herbs Baobab Oil, It’s divine!

• Carrot seed oil

  This oil is derived from the seeds of the biennial plant Queen Anne’s Lace. It is great to nourish, soften, and moisturize the skin. It is a lovely green color that can help balance out redness and protect against the harsh effects of environmental toxins. It is high in antioxidants and works great as a make-up remover too! Wild Carrot Herbals makes an amazing Carrot seed oil.

• Coconut oil

  I could talk about the benefits of coconut oil for days! As a face and body oil, it excels at retaining moisture and preventing water loss from the skin, keeping it hydrated and supple. Packed with vitamin E and fatty acids, coconut oil nourishes deeply, promoting skin health and a youthful glow. Its versatility extends beyond skin care—it can be used as an effective facial cleanser or a nourishing hair moisturizer, perfect for creating the infamous "coco bun" while leaving hair soft and shiny. Coconut oil is best suited for dry or normal skin types due to its deeply moisturizing properties, though those with oily or acne-prone skin may want to use it sparingly.

• Jojoba oil

  This plant oil is excellent for balancing oily skin and serves as an effective makeup remover, face cleanser, or body oil. With its antibacterial properties, it can also be used to treat minor skin infections like cuts and scrapes. Additionally, it promotes scalp and hair health, making it a great choice for improving dandruff and enhancing overall hair condition. Its versatility and therapeutic benefits make it a valuable addition to any skincare routine.

• Raspberry seed oil

  Raspberry seed oil is a fantastic option for sensitive, dry, or mature skin, offering gentle nourishment and protection. Rich in vitamins E and A, it helps promote skin repair and enhances its natural barrier. This oil also provides mild sun protection with an SPF of around 28, making it suitable for daily use, though not a replacement for stronger sunscreens in intense sunlight. Its lightweight texture absorbs easily, leaving the skin soft and hydrated without feeling greasy.

• Rosehip oil

  This brightening and balancing oil is extremely high in essential fatty acids is perfect for dry irritated skin and can help correct dark skin spots. It is extremely high in vitamin C, antioxidants, and fatty acids. It is a great healer for scars and stretch marks. I wouldn’t recommend this for acne-prone skin. I love Trilogy Organic Rosehip oil. 

Rosehip fresh picked on the Oregon Coast

DIY Suggestions

• Mix raw Shea butter with Jojoba oil for an ultra moisturizer for your body.

• Make a Lip scrub with raw sugar, peppermint oil, and jojoba. I love this recipe from Hello Glow!

• Create an anti-acne serum with carrot seed oil and tea tree oil. 

• Make a nourishing hair mask with coconut and argan oil.

• Concoct a natural whipped sunscreen with raspberry seed oil, coconut oil, zinc oxide, and shea. (recipe coming soon!)

Resources

• Lin T-K, Zhong L, Santiago JL. Anti-Inflammatory and Skin Barrier Repair Effects of Topical Application of Some Plant Oils. International Journal of Molecular Sciences. 2018; 19(1):70. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms19010070

• https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s40257-017-0301-1?correlationId=776c7a3c-df16-4a73-bea4-d2b38f32f346

• https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0254629921005548

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