Essential oils are Shraddha Kapoor's beauty secret. Are you using them right?

Shraddha Kapoor swears by essential oils, and these little 'magic potions' can work wonders for your skin too, when used the right way.

In Short

• Essential oils are natural compounds derived from plants
• They offer a variety of skin benefits
• However, it’s essential to use them correctly to avoid skin issues

Skincare enthusiasts have two main obsessions: experimenting with every beauty hack to achieve that coveted glow, and quietly admiring (read: envying) their favourite stars, all while swooning over their flawless, radiant skin. And let's be honest—who doesn't love uncovering the skincare secrets of celebrities and trying them out for themselves?

In a recent interview with Elle, Shraddha Kapoor revealed her go-to skincare weapon: essential oils. She shared that she not only loves using them but also enjoys blending her own personalised oils from time to time.

Over the past decade or two, essential oils have become a staple in the beauty world. But here's the catch: they’re incredibly potent and need to be used correctly to work their magic without risking harm to the skin.

What exactly are essential oils?

"Essential oils are compounds extracted from plants. The oils capture the plant’s scent and flavour, or essence. The unique aromatic compounds give each essential oil its characteristic essence," Dr Rishi Parashar, chairperson, dermatology, Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, Delhi, tells India Today.

He explains that essential oils are obtained through distillation (via steam and/or water) or mechanical methods, such as cold pressing. Once the aromatic chemicals have been extracted, they are combined with a carrier oil to create a product that’s ready for use.

Dr Shireen Furtado, senior consultant, medical and cosmetic dermatology, Aster CMI Hospital, Bengaluru, adds that essential oils are often used in aromatherapy, skincare, and holistic health practices because of their potential therapeutic effects.

"When it comes to skincare, essential oils offer a range of benefits, including moisturising properties, anti-inflammatory effects, and the ability to combat certain skin conditions," she says.

Be cautious

Dr Furtado emphasises the importance of using essential oils properly, as some can cause irritation or allergic reactions if applied directly to the skin without proper dilution or guidance.

Dr Parashar also states that just because something is natural doesn’t mean it’s safe. Plants and herbal products contain many bioactive compounds that may harm your health, and essential oils are no different. However, when inhaled or mixed with a base oil for topical use, most essential oils are considered safe.

Experts also caution that it's important to be aware of potential side effects. These can range from mild to severe, depending on an individual’s sensitivity, the type of oil used, and the method of application. Common side effects include skin irritation, rashes, headaches, allergic reactions, and respiratory issues, especially when oils are applied directly to the skin or inhaled in concentrated form.

"The oils most commonly associated with adverse reactions are lavender, peppermint, tea tree, and ylang-ylang," shares Dr Parashar, adding, "Oils high in phenols, such as cinnamon, can irritate the skin and should not be used without being mixed with a base oil. Additionally, citrus-based oils can make your skin more sensitive to sunlight, leading to burns."

Choosing the right essential oil

When choosing an essential oil for your skin (whether dry, oily, or combination), it’s important to select those with properties suited to your skin’s needs.

• For dry skin, oils such as lavender and geranium are often recommended due to their hydrating and soothing effects, which help restore moisture and balance.
• For oily skin, tea tree and rosemary essential oils are frequently suggested, as they have natural astringent and antibacterial properties that can help regulate sebum production and prevent breakouts.
• For combination skin, it's important to find oils that balance hydration and oil control, helping to nourish drier areas while preventing excess oil production in the t-zone. Lavender, geranium, tea tree, frankincense, and chamomile are good choices.
• For sensitive skin, chamomile and frankincense are excellent options due to their calming and anti-inflammatory qualities, making them ideal for reducing irritation and promoting skin health.

How to use essential oils

Dr Furtado explains that there are several ways to use essential oils, depending on the results you want to achieve.

You can diffuse them, which means spreading the oils into the air to create a pleasant smell. Another method is topical application, where you mix the essential oil with a carrier oil (like coconut or jojoba oil) and apply it to your skin for its benefits.

Once you have diluted the essential oil, do a patch test on a small area of skin first to check for sensitivity. Gently massage the diluted oil onto clean skin, avoiding sensitive areas like the eyes. Always use sparingly and avoid over-application.

Keep in mind to apply essential oils to targeted areas where you want to see results. For example:

• Tea tree oil for acne-prone areas (like the t-zone or breakouts).
• Lavender or chamomile oil for calming and soothing irritated or dry skin.
• Frankincense oil for ageing skin or to promote skin regeneration.

Before adding one to your routine

If you plan to add an essential oil to your skincare routine, it’s important to first identify the skin concern you want to address. Understanding the unique properties of each essential oil is key, as each oil has different effects on mood, health, and well-being.

Before making a purchase, consider the oil's method of extraction, purity, and quality, as these factors significantly impact its effectiveness. Consulting with a professional can also help you make an informed choice, ensuring the oil not only meets your needs but also adheres to safety standards for use.