Skin whitening has been ardently pursued by women all over the world for centuries. Cleopatra soaked for hours in milk and rose petals. In Renaissance Europe, women applied white lead on their skin to attain a ghostly white pallor, ironically slowly poisoning themselves to death. Skin whitening alone is a multi-million industry, generating hundreds of products, both natural and synthetic, by cosmetic companies promising immaculate, porcelain white complexion.
However, did you know that you can brighten dark & dull skin tone just by using essential oils alone? If skin lightening is what you’re after, you might want to consider switching from chemical laden cosmetic products to a more natural approach.
Nº 1 Lemon
Lemon essential oil has antibacterial, antiseptic and astringent properties perfect for normal to oily skin. It detoxifies, refreshes and soothes the skin almost immediately upon contact, thus improving your complexion and skin texture. However, you would want to avoid sun exposure after using lemon essential oil as it is phototoxic which might result in a stinging sensation or sunburn. So, reserve the use of this oil for the evening or at night. Lemon essential oil should never be used undiluted – jojoba and grapeseed oils make the best carrier oils for lemon essential oil.
Nº 2 Carrot seed
One of the best essential oils for sun damaged skin, carrot seed essential oils is a powerful antioxidant (due to its beta-carotene) which lightens dark patches on the skin, curing hyperpigmentation and is even capable of curing melasma. Additionally, it also speeds up cell regeneration, gradually transforming red blotchy skin into a healthy golden glow. Carrot seed essential oil also acts as a natural sunscreen and you can mix a few drops in ¼ cup of coconut oil for a gorgeous tan.
Nº 3 Sandalwood
Sandalwood essential oil has been used for skincare for centuries. The antibacterial, antifungal and antiseptic properties of sandalwood essential oil cure acne, pimples, blackheads, whiteheads and other skin problems. It has anti-aging and astringent properties, rejuvenates dull and dry skin, moisturises dehydrated skin and removes excessive oil from the skin to make it look brighter and softer. Regular use of sandalwood essential oil brightens your skin and makes it very soft.
Nº 4 Lavender
Lavender essential oil has antibacterial, antifungal and antiseptic properties which render it ideal for the treatment of various skin conditions and blemishes such as acne, sunburn, scars, pimples, boils, rashes and eczema. Regularly massaging lavender essential oil to the face will not only improve your skin condition but also brighten skin tone.
Nº 5 Turmeric
Turmeric root has been in use 4000 years ago for Ayurvedic preparations and is highly valued for its powerful antioxidant, antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer properties and its ability to purify the body both internally and externally. Turmeric essential oil also has a powerful bleaching effect on the skin.
How to use essential oils to brighten skin tone?
Simply make a 1-2% dilution with the carrier oil of your choice, jojoba or grapeseed oils are a good way to start, or add the oils to shea butter and massage on your face and leave it on while you sleep. Alternatively, you may add the essential oils to plain, low fat yoghurt or honey and apply on your face. Rinse it off after 30 minutes and finish your facial routine with a moisturiser. Again, the moisturiser can be further enhanced by adding a few drops of the essential oil of your choice. The mode of application is really very versatile and easily customised to your needs.
Other essential oils to try out:
- Cedarwood
- Geranium
- Clary sage
- Sweet fennel
- Cypress
- Neroli
- Jasmine
- Rose
Best seed carrier oils for lightening skin tone
Nº 1 Jojoba
In skincare and cosmetics jojoba seed oil helps to calm the skin. It is deeply penetrating, non-greasy and its anti-inflammatory property heals and smoothens the skin. Experts say that it can improve chapped or sun damaged skin.
Nº 2 Safflower
Commonly used as a cooking oil, safflower oil is an amazing emollient for dry skin. It lubricates and also locks in moisture, resulting in a naturally glowing, younger looking complexion.
Nº 3 Sunflower
Another common cooking oil, sunflower seed oil is rich in antioxidants and vitamin E. The antioxidant property found in sunflower seed oil eliminates toxins and free radicals thus slowing down the processes of ageing while vitamin E helps improve skin elasticity by tightening it.
Nº 4 Raspberry
Raspberry seed extract provides nutritious elements to the skin, thanks to its essential fatty acids: omega-3s and omega-6s. These help to make your skin soft with a stronger texture. In fact, research has shown that these fatty acids can boost collagen production so that skin remains young. They also ensure skin cells are well hydrated.
A final reminder: since you’ll be applying essential oils directly and leaving it on your skin for up to eight hours, perhaps it makes sense to use only the purest grade available which is, of course, organic or wild-crafted ones for the best results. Although they cost slightly more than conventional ones, you really don’t want harmful chemicals to be absorbed by your skin.
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