The adjective cutaneous literally means "of the skin " (from Latin cutis, skin ). As the interface with the surroundings, skin plays the most important role in protecting (the body) against pathogens. Its other main functions are insulation and temperature regulation, sensation, and synthesis of vitamin D and the protection of vitamin B folats. Severely damaged skin will try to heal by forming scar tissue, often giving rise to discoloration and depigmentation of the skin . The use of natural or synthetic cosmetics to treat the appearance of the face and condition of the skin (such as pore control and black head cleansing) is common among many cultures. Oily skin is caused by hormonal fluctuations in the body, which lead to a DHT sensitivity. This sensitivity means that the skin begins to lose moisture and essential fatty acids (linoleic acid in particular), causing thousands of skin cells to die, so the skin compensates for this loss of moisture by producing higher levels of oil. Oily skin can be cleaned quickly with a mild solution of laundry detergent, when pure bath soaps fail. Afterward, body lotions could be used to recondition cleansed skin as would be used to treat dry skin . Oily skin is caused by over-active glands, that produce a substance called sebum, a naturally healthy skin lubricant. When the skin produces excessive sebum, it becomes heavy and thick in texture.
Oily skin is typified by shininess, blemishes and pimples. The oily- skin type is not necessarily bad, since such skin is less prone to wrinkling, or other signs of aging, because the oil helps to keep needed moisture locked into the epidermis (outermost layer of skin ) The negative aspect of the oily- skin type is that oily complexions are especially susceptible to clogged pores, blackheads, and build-up of dead skin cells on the surface of the skin .Oily skin can be sallow and rough in texture and tends to have large, clearly visible pores everywhere, except around the eyes and neck. The goal of treating oily skin is to remove excess surface sebum without complete removal of skin lipids. Severe degreasing treatment can foster an actual worsening of sebum secretion, which defeats the aim of the cleansing. A method of cleansing oily skin is to wash with a solution of a mild synthetic detergent (see: surfactant) containing no oils, waxes or other lipid agents that could aggravate the oily condition of the skin, sometimes combined with a toning lotion. Such a product removes the oily residue and debris from the skin surface. Some cleansing products have lower concentrations of hydroxy acids, which remove dead cells from the upper levels of the stratum corneum. Those products should be used on a regular basis to work adequately. A light moisturizer may be included in a product to counteract any drying effects of the cleanser. Ageing As skin ages, it becomes thinner and more easily damaged. Intensifying this effect is the decreasing ability of skin to heal itself, as a person ages and skin requires a longer time to heal in later life. Skin ageing is caused by the fall in elasticity. Ageing skin also receives less blood flow and lower gland activity. Skin problems can be caused by a multitude of different things which can often include physical and emotional problems as well as Poor Diet Deficiency of oxygen from closed, overheated rooms Environmental pollutants Chemical pollutants Food Intolerances Hormone Imbalances Smoking Drugs Synthetic Cosmetics Working outside for too long in sun, wind and rain Stress and emotional problems Dehydrated Skin often feels tight, cold and wrinkles easily.
Aromatherapy Treatments:
Lack of oil and moisture are both concerned with endocrine imbalance and essential oils which can help to correct such imbalances should be used. Geranium and Lavender essential oils are among the best to use. Gentle oils to soothe the surface of the skin such as Chamomile, Neroli and Rose are helpful. Fluid lotions are better to use than creams and any of these essential oils can be added to the lotion. The skin needs protection at all times to prevent loss of fluids and it is best to apply lotions several times a day. The diet should include plenty of fresh raw fruit and vegetables, fruit juices and natural mineral water.
Fantastic oil for so many purposes including skin care, inflammed tendons and swollen joints, digestive prolems especially where related to stress.
A wonderful oil which has so many valuable properties Chamomile would be a great one to always keep in and can be used in skin care, musuclar aches and pains and digestive problems.
Chamomile is a great oil to use for nervous disorders. It is soothing and calming and can help where a person is irritable or nervous. It can also help with insomnia.
Geranium is lovely floral oil which can help with a wide variety of skin conditions, poor circulation, cellulite and many menopausal problems as well as fluid retention and hormonal in-balance.
Lavender has been used continuously for thousands of years and its popularity has only ever increased. If you could have no other essential oil in your house, then Lavender would be the prime choice: It has a wide range of uses and is a natural antibiotic, anti-depressant, sedative and de-toxifier.
Neroli is antidepressant, antiseptic, antispasmodic and aphrodisiac as well as being a gentle sedative and is valuable for helping with problems of an emotional nature. It is reputed to be an aphrodisiac and helps with skin care. It can help with stomach spasms and diarrhoea.
Rose is often referred to as the Queen of all essential oils not least because of its price. It can help with lack of confidence, depression or grief as it has uplifting qualities and is said to produce feelings of well-being and even happiness. It has strong connections with our sexuality and can aid menstual problems.
Rose Otto is a wonderful oil which can help with skin care especially where the skin is more mature and is soothing for conditions such as asthma and hayfever.