Ylang-ylang essential oil skin benefits

Ylang-Ylang essential oil is extracted from the flowers of the Cananga odorata tree. This tree is native to the tropical regions of Southeast Asia. This oil has a sweet, floral and slightly spicy aroma. This makes it an ingredient that can be used in perfumes, aromatherapy and skincare products. Ylang-Ylang essential oil has many skin benefits to offer.

It has moisturizing effects and is also effective in dealing with skin aging. But you must dilute it with a carrier oil as the undiluted form can cause skin irritation and sensitivity in some individuals. But before learning about how to use the oil for skin it is better to know about the skin benefits of Ylang-Ylang essential oil.

Benefits of Ylang-Ylang oil for skin

Ylang-Ylang oil is natural moisturizer.  This oil can help to hydrate dry skin. When this oil is applied topically it will form a barrier on the skin that locks in moisture and prevents evaporation. This will help to plump up your skin and diminish the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines.

This essential oil is rich in anti-oxidants, which can protect the skin from the damage caused by free radicals. These can damage the collagen and elastin in your skin, which are proteins that provide the skin with its firmness and elasticity. This will further help in reducing the appearance of wrinkles and saggy skin.  Ylang-Ylang essential oil can make you look younger than your age.

Ylang-ylang oil has anti-inflammatory properties that can soothe irritated and reduce redness. This makes the cream an important ingredient for people with conditions like eczema or psoriasis.

This oil has a balancing effect on the skin. The oil can help to regulate oil production. Hence you can use the oil on both dry as well as oily skin types. It can help to hydrate dry skin while reducing excess oil production in oily skin.

Ylang-Ylang oil has antiseptic and anti-microbial properties. This can help to kill the bacteria that causes acne. When applied in a topical form it can reduce the severity of acne outbreaks. It can also prevent the formation of new pimples.

How to use Ylang-Ylang essential oil for skin benefits?

All essential oils must be diluted before use on the skin. The same is the case with Ylang-Ylang oil. Here are some guidelines to use the oil on your skin.

As far as dilution is concerned it must be done as essential oils are highly concentrated and can cause skin irritation when used in a diluted form. Therefore it is recommended to dilute ylang-ylang oil with a carrier oil like coconut oil, jojoba oil or almond oil. Mix on one or two drops of ylang-ylang oil with one teaspoon of carrier oil.

It is important to test any new skincare product on a small area of the skin before using it on a wider area. Apply a small amount of diluted oil on the inside of your wrist. Wait for 24 hours to see if there is any reaction. If there is some redness or swelling then don’t use it on your face.

Once you know that you are not allergic to the diluted version of the oil then you can apply it to your face or body as desired. You can use the oil as a standalone moisturizer or add a few drops to your existing moisturizer or lotion. You can also use it as a part of a DIY face mask.

When using Ylang-Ylang oil you must be careful not to use it around the eyes or other sensitive areas of your body.

As far as storage is concerned you will have to keep the diluted oil mixture in a cool, dark place for future use.

A precaution that you will need to take while using diluted oil and while you are pregnant is to consult a healthcare professional.

In conclusion

Ylang-Ylang oil is an essential oil that can be used to moisturize the skin, prevent wrinkles and fine lines, fighting acne and regulating the supply of oil to your skin. But you need to dilute it with a carrier oil before using it on the skin.

It can be used it as a standalone moisturizer or add it to a DIY face mask. It is needed to first try the oil on a small area of your skin before using it on a larger area.