OIL: WHAT YOUR SKIN MIGHT BE LACKING

Did you know that there are two types of dry skin?  For some people, only one of the two different types of dryness is a problem while others struggle with both types at the same time, and it can be confusing to say the least! Even though we generally think of "dry" as meaning lacking in water, when it comes to your skin, you can be either WATER dry or OIL dry. 

Our bodies depend on water to survive.  The first signs of dehydration will be shown on the skin.  It will feel tight, lack elasticity and can be flaky.  This type of WATER dry skin can happen from not drinking enough water, from not taking in the proper nutrients in order to achieve cellular & electrolyte balance and from products that strip the natural moisture from the skin.

Oil dry skin simply isn't producing adequate sebum (the skin's natural oil).  There are several reasons for OIL dry skin; weather, hormonal changes and menopause, a poor diet lacking healthy oils and fish and of course...age.  For years, oil has earned an undeserved negative reputation in the beauty industry.  The reality is that plant-based oils are quickly absorbed by the skin and could be just what your skin actually needs! The skin is relatively permeable to fat soluble substances.  Essential oil molecules are so minute that when they are applied to the skin; they are able to pass through the strateum corneum (the outer layer of the epidermis). From here the oil molecule passes through dermis, into the capillaries and into the bloodstream. This means that these types of oils will go INTO the skin instead of sitting on the surface and will know where they are needed.  There are many essential oils that will actually aid in the secretion of oil, stimulate collagen and promote skin turn-over and skin tone for more youthful looking skin.  If your skin is looking dull and dry, it could be that oil is what it wants and needs.

Vicki Cooper

(certified Aroma-therapist)