Here is a list of essential oils that may help with dryness and dehydration of the skin. Use them with your moisturizer or body lotion (preferably unscented) or with carrier oils such as jojoba or sweet almond oil. However, if the skincare or body care products you’re using already contain essential oils, then it’s best to inhale or diffuse the essential oils instead of applying it topically to avoid overusing essential oils. Please make sure to carry out a patch test before putting any of these oils onto your face.

Lavender

Skin that is dry and dehydrated is prone to irritation such as redness, itchiness and blotchiness. This is where the anti-inflammatory properties of lavender essential oil come in handy. Furthermore, the abundance of anti-oxidants present helps to combat free radicals and slow down the aging process.

Patchouli

Its distinctive aroma makes it popular in perfumery and incense, but the benefits of patchouli essential oil actually has a wider range than that. It can help manage dandruff and oily scalps. On the other hand, it is helpful for individuals with dry, flaky and cracked skin, especially on the knees, elbows and heels.

Palmarosa

Palmarosa essential oil is another multi-purpose essential oil to help with more than just dry and dehydrated skin as it helps to not only moisturizes the skin, but it can also help to regulate sebum production, benefiting oilier and blemish prone skin as well. Its antiseptic and anti-microbial properties also make it beneficial for individuals suffering from dermatitis and inflamed skin.

Chamomile

If your skin is getting dry due to the drop in temperature and change in climate, consider incorporating chamomile essential oil into your skin and body care routine. It is soothing, nourishing and contains skin brightening properties to moisturise the skin, calm redness while making your skin appear more radiant.

Copaiba

Copaiba essential oil is gentle oil that packs a punch when it comes to tackling inflammation. Individuals with aching joints and muscles can expect to feel more relieved when using diluted copaiba on the affected areas. Individuals whose dry skin is prone to itchiness and flakiness can also benefit from using properly diluted copaiba.

Cedarwood

Cedarwood essential oil can be used on a wider range of skin types, including dry and dehydrated skin. The calming nature of the oil promotes relaxation to the mind and body. When applied to the skin of the face, body, or scalp, helps provide relief for itchiness, flakiness and manages breakouts caused from skin that is overly dehydrated.

Rose

Rose essential oil is expensive and potent, you’ll want to practice a stronger dilution with these oils compared to the other oils mentioned. Its benefits for skin ranges from hydrating the skin, brightens up dull and sallow complexion and reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles that is easier to get with drier skin.

Make sure to dilute adequately with a suitable carrier with all the essential oils mentioned, even the ones that are safe to use on young children such as chamomile. Do not apply liberally. It is not moisturizer or sunscreen that you can slather on. Remember to use essential oils sparingly as a little bit can go a very long way. You only need a drop or two at most.