Human skin is considered as the largest body organ. And since not all skin is created equal, people should be wary on what they put on their skin as most of the chemical-laden products may do more harm than good. One product that people commonly use is baby oil. It is used to keep skin moisturized but since baby oil is made from mineral oil, people are now thinking twice when applying this product on their skin. This is because the mineral oil used in making baby oil is a byproduct of refined crude oil which is used to make gasoline and petroleum products.
Good thing there are natural alternatives to baby oil. These natural oils have been used for centuries as medicine and skincare. While these products are mild and tested safe for use by both babies and adults, it is still best to do a spot test on the skin to see if there will be an allergic reaction. Take note that aside from taking these natural alternatives, healthy living, eating right, exercise and having a good sleeping habit contribute to the overall well-being of the skin.
Here are some of the proven effective natural oils that are more beneficial than baby oil without worrying about harmful side effects.
Olive Oil
Though olive oil is commonly seen in the kitchen, it also has a lot of benefits when applied to the skin. The use of olive oil dates back to the Biblical times and often referred to as the “liquid gold” because to its many benefits. It was also used in different religious ceremonies making it a symbol of purity, peace and wisdom, to name a few. Olive oil is packed with vitamins A and E, hypoallergenic and can be safely used by both adult and babies. Not only is it beneficial to the skin, it is also used as alternative to shaving creams, hair treatment as deep conditioner, diaper rash treatment, to name a few.
Coconut Oil
Like olive oil, coconut oil has a lot of benefits not only when applied externally but also when taken internally. Other uses and benefits include make-up remover, energy booster, ease insect bites and superb moisturizer. For babies, it can be used as treatment and protection from diaper rash, massage oil (which is also has a lot of benefits for the baby) and treatment of infantile seborrheic dermatitis or cradle cap. Its active ingredient that comprises coconut oil is called medium-chain fatty acid which is one of the healthiest oil for the skin.
Almond Oil
There are two types of almond oil – bitter almond oil and sweet almond oil. Though bitter almonds have a lot of benefits, it has one active ingredient called glycoside amygdalin which is toxic when ingested. On the other hand, the sweet almond oil does not contain that active ingredient making it safe to use when taken orally or applied on skin. What’s good about sweet almond oil is that it isn’t only suitable for the skin; it is also good for the heart. It is rich in protein, zinc, vitamin E, vitamin A and other vitamins and minerals that is helpful in keeping the skin and heart healthy.
Jojoba Oil
Studies show that jojoba oil is the only oil that closely similar to the body’s sebum. It isn’t actually oil but a liquid wax that is extracted from the seeds of the same name and can be found in the desert parts of the United States and Mexico. Jojoba oil is used as skin moisturizer, oil and acne controller, lessens the sunburn’s effect, and relieves dryness and itchiness caused by eczema and psoriasis. It can also be used for conditioning the hair, clean hair scalp, and prevent hair loss.
Rosehip Oil
This certain type of oil is becoming more and more popular as a skincare product because of its high level of retinol. Aside from that, rosehip oil is also rich in Vitamin E, C, lycopene and essential fatty acids. When applied topically it helps reduce fine lines, lessen the stretchmarks and scars and moisturizes skin, nails, hair and scalp. Other benefits include lowering LDL levels and blood pressure, cure for colds, treatment for stomach disorder, alleviate symptoms of arthritis and helps in prevention of a certain type of skin cancer called melanoma.
Argan Oil
Naturally grown in Morocco, argan oil is widely used on both culinary and cosmetic purposes. Because of the several benefits that can be found in the argan oil, UNESCO invested in the preservation of these trees as it became almost extinct due to overgrazing. Argan oil can be used by all skin types. It hydrates, moisturizes and helps in healing skin problems such as eczema, acne and psoriasis. It can also be used for the hair as a deep conditioner to help counter the dryness by keeping it soft and smooth.
