This step in my natural skin care journey was probably the scariest for me because it involved "oils". As one with blemish-prone, combo/oily skin, I always made sure that products were "oil-free". Yet here I was contemplating putting oil on my face!
However, after tons of research and seeing amazing results on one of my favorite YouTube "gurus", I decided to take the plunge. And now, 8 months later, I would say that I'm an "oil junkie" :-) Instead of the oils making my combo skin more oily, they have conversely helped balance my skin and now I find my skin rarely needs blotting in the middle of the day! I've also noticed a reduction in fine lines and more even skin tone.
In order to make your own moisturizer/serum, you will need one or two "carrier oils" and then 1-3 "essential oils". The great thing about concocting your own moisturizer is you get to choose the ingredients and tailor them to suit your skin's specific needs. I will share with you my favorite oils and various combinations that I love but feel free to experiment on your own. There are a plethora of oils out there so at the end of this post, I have included links with helpful information on natural oils, where to buy, etc.
So without further adieu....
Moisturizer/Serum #1 - Blemish and Redness Fighting Serum
1/2 ounce Rose Hip Seed Oil
1/2 ounce Grapeseed Oil (NOT grapefruit seed oil!)
4 drops Tea Tree Oil
4 drops Lavender Oil
**This moisturizer must be kept in the refrigerator as Rose Hip Seed oil requires refrigeration once opened.
**To use: After cleansing and toning your skin, apply 4-5 drops of serum on your fingers; massage and press into skin
Moisturizer/Serum #2 - Anti-aging and Blemish Control Serum
1/2 ounce Tamanu Oil
1/2 ounce Grapeseed Oil
4 drops German Chamomile in Jojoba Oil
4 drops Tea Tree Oil
**To use: After cleansing and toning your skin, apply 4-5 drops of serum on your fingers; massage and press into skin
I like to mix my serums in 1 ounce amber glass bottles with a dropper.....these are readily available from most health food stores or on Amazon for around $2. When shopping for oils, you want to be sure you are getting quality oils that are certified organic and have no other additives. A few brands that I've found to have a good reputation are:
~Life-Flo
~Aura Cacia
~NOW
Remember, you don't have to spend a lot of money to get a great oil! After all, that is part of the quest....all natural skin care that doesn't break the bank :-)
Helpful Links:
Guide to Carrier Oils
Essential Oil Profiles
Where to Buy:
*Vitacost - they carry a full range of oils at super low prices
(Get $10 off your first order here: Vitacost Referral Discount)
*VitaminShoppe
*Sprouts or your local health food store
Disclaimer: I am not a skin care professional....just a girl sharing her thoughts :-) Remember it is VERY important to follow the safety precautions and directions regarding use of essential oils.....never use them "neat" on the skin (which means full strength). Pregnant women should ask their doctor before using. And, as is always the case for anything you use on your skin, if you notice any skin irritation, discontinue use.
However, after tons of research and seeing amazing results on one of my favorite YouTube "gurus", I decided to take the plunge. And now, 8 months later, I would say that I'm an "oil junkie" :-) Instead of the oils making my combo skin more oily, they have conversely helped balance my skin and now I find my skin rarely needs blotting in the middle of the day! I've also noticed a reduction in fine lines and more even skin tone.
In order to make your own moisturizer/serum, you will need one or two "carrier oils" and then 1-3 "essential oils". The great thing about concocting your own moisturizer is you get to choose the ingredients and tailor them to suit your skin's specific needs. I will share with you my favorite oils and various combinations that I love but feel free to experiment on your own. There are a plethora of oils out there so at the end of this post, I have included links with helpful information on natural oils, where to buy, etc.
So without further adieu....
Moisturizer/Serum #1 - Blemish and Redness Fighting Serum
1/2 ounce Rose Hip Seed Oil
1/2 ounce Grapeseed Oil (NOT grapefruit seed oil!)
4 drops Tea Tree Oil
4 drops Lavender Oil
**This moisturizer must be kept in the refrigerator as Rose Hip Seed oil requires refrigeration once opened.
**To use: After cleansing and toning your skin, apply 4-5 drops of serum on your fingers; massage and press into skin
Moisturizer/Serum #2 - Anti-aging and Blemish Control Serum
1/2 ounce Tamanu Oil
1/2 ounce Grapeseed Oil
4 drops German Chamomile in Jojoba Oil
4 drops Tea Tree Oil
**To use: After cleansing and toning your skin, apply 4-5 drops of serum on your fingers; massage and press into skin
I like to mix my serums in 1 ounce amber glass bottles with a dropper.....these are readily available from most health food stores or on Amazon for around $2. When shopping for oils, you want to be sure you are getting quality oils that are certified organic and have no other additives. A few brands that I've found to have a good reputation are:
~Life-Flo
~Aura Cacia
~NOW
Remember, you don't have to spend a lot of money to get a great oil! After all, that is part of the quest....all natural skin care that doesn't break the bank :-)
Helpful Links:
Guide to Carrier Oils
Essential Oil Profiles
Where to Buy:
*Vitacost - they carry a full range of oils at super low prices
(Get $10 off your first order here: Vitacost Referral Discount)
*VitaminShoppe
*Sprouts or your local health food store
Disclaimer: I am not a skin care professional....just a girl sharing her thoughts :-) Remember it is VERY important to follow the safety precautions and directions regarding use of essential oils.....never use them "neat" on the skin (which means full strength). Pregnant women should ask their doctor before using. And, as is always the case for anything you use on your skin, if you notice any skin irritation, discontinue use.
Coming Up Next ~ Part 4: Makeup Remover and Eye Serum