The ancient science of aromatherapy, involving the use of essential oils derived from blossoms, trees, herbs and resins, dates back over sixty centuries. These oils contain curative and cleansing qualities and in addition are pleasant smelling and mood-elevating.
The ills of contemporary society - fast food diets, toxic pollutants, stress, hectic schedules and lack of adequate physical activity - all impact our physical and mental states negatively. Today, many people are reverting back to traditional remedies to regain balance in their lives.

The application of essential oils and scents can be used to treat several types of conditions and is often used to treat the skin. While practicing holistic skin care the basic thing to be borne in mind is never to apply essential oils to any part of skin without diluting, even while inhaling. In addition, the holistic skin care techniques that follow will be beneficial for cleaning and renewing the skin’s cells, particularly on the face. If you would like to create formula for a facial skin deep cleanser, combine 3 to 5 drops of essential oil with a teaspoon of either milk or honey and a pint of hot water. Place the hot mixture in a stainless steel mixing bowl, then lean over the bowl, cover your head with a towel, and inhale while taking the steam directly on your face. This process is often called a “Facial Steam.” Along with deep-cleaning the skin on your face, inhaling the steam in this fashion has a soothing effect.

To keep your skin tone healthy, help it stay fresh and hydrated, try ‘Facial Masque’, an aromatherapy skin care treatment. For this recipe, mix honey, mashed avocado or egg white, 2-3 drops of essential oils with moistened clay. Moisten your face before applying this mixture. Once the masque begins to dry and harden (ten to fifteen minutes) then the masque is completely cleaned off with lukewarm water.

For nourishing and healing facial skin, mix approximately 10 drops of essential oil with a base oil. Skin type calls for a difference in oils, whether its Jojoba, Frankincense or German Chamomile. Applying this blend to problematic areas will result in the desired effect. This technique is referred to as “Facial Oil Blend”.

To keep the skin refreshed and stimulate the lymphatic system, is ‘Skin Brushing’,another aspect of aromatherapy skin care. Mix a tablespoon of honey with a drop of essential oil and apply with a natural bristle brush.

Essential oils, when used correctly and carefully, are safe and effective at revitalizing the body and spirit, even when other methods have been unsuccessful. Aromatherapy has even been used successfully for treating traumatic cases. But, one needs to determine the quality since many inexpensive artificial replicas of essential oils are offered for sale as well.