Pimples, pores, and MORE… Have YOU discovered the soothing powers of neem oil yet? If not, you are in for a treat! Neem oil contains natural compounds that can support skin health. Learn more about How to Use Neem Oil for Skin in this carrier oil spotlight.
For many years people have been using neem oil as a natural insecticide to control plant insects and diseases but it can also be used for skincare. This powerhouse of an oil is like a magic wand that can help your skin become clean, clear, and glowing.
What Is Neem Oil?
Pressed from the fruits and seeds of the neem, neem oil is a vegetable oil that varies in color from golden yellow to reddish-brown, dark brown, yellowish-brown, greenish-brown, or bright red.
The neem, also known as Indian Lilac, is an evergreen that is indigenous to the Indian subcontinent but also grows in many other tropical areas.
Botanical Name | Azadirachta indica |
Skin Type | Best for dry skin |
Comedogenic Rating | 1 - 2 |
Shelf Life | 2 years. Store in refrigerator. |
Consistency & Absorption | Soft, waxy consistency at room temperature. It does not absorb easily. |
Safety | The ingestion of neem oil is potentially toxic, keep out of children's reach. |
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NOTE: Neem oil had a strong pungent odor similar to boiled peanuts.
Fatty Acid Composition of Neem Oil:
- Linoleic acid
- Oleic acid
- Palmitic acid
- Stearic acid
- Alpha-linolenic acid
- palmitoleic acid
Where to Buy Neem Oil
Be sure to buy only 100 percent pure, cold-pressed, organic neem oil. Here is one from Kate Blanc Cosmetics that we like:
Benefits of Neem Oil
Containing many ingredients that are extremely beneficial to the skin, neem oil is used in a variety of beauty products like lotions, cosmetics, and hair products.
It’s high in fatty acids and other nutrients, such as limonoid, EFA (fatty acids), vitamin E, triglycerides, calcium, and antioxidants.
Its anti-inflammatory properties help replenish moisture to skin and can help tighten large pores to prevent breakouts.
Next, let’s take a look at the variety of uses this powerhouse oil possesses!
Best Neem Oil Uses
Containing a plethora of ingredients that are uber beneficial to your skin, neem oil is used in a variety of beauty products:
- Body lotions
- Skin cream
- Cosmetics
- Hair products
In addition, this potent oil has strong anti-bacterial properties, making it a great oil for acne-prone skin.
Neem oil helps to reduce irritation, inflammation, and redness while also moisturizing and protecting the skin. It has been used to:
- Heal wounds
- Treat acne
- Minimize warts & moles
- Treat dry skin & wrinkles
- Stimulate collagen production
- Reduce scars
Neem oil has also used to treat the symptoms of skin disorders, such as eczema and psoriasis.
How To Use Neem Oil for Skin
First things first, always make sure you are purchasing a 100 percent pure, cold-pressed, organic neem oil. It will appear yellowish and cloudy and have a mustard/sulfur/garlic scent and needs to be stored in a dark, cool place.
Neem oil is safe to use and tolerated well by most, but it is important to do a patch test on your arm before putting neem oil on your face. Wait 24 hours to see if your skin has any type of reaction.
As we mentioned before, pure neem oil is incredibly potent, and depending on its use, may need to be diluted. Use the guidelines when using neem oil:
Undiluted to Spot Treat Affected Areas
- Acne
- Fungal infections
- Warts
- Moles
- Use a cotton ball or swab and lightly dab deem oil onto the area. Let it sit for 15 to 20 minutes and then wash off with warm water.
- Safe to use daily. Dilute neem oil if you have sensitive skin, follow directions below.
Diluted for Use on Larger Areas of Your Face or Body (or for Use on Sensitive Skin)
Mix equal parts of neem oil with a carrier oil:
- Coconut oil
- Jojoba oil
- Grapeseed oil
- The carrier oil helps tame the scent of neem oil, but you can also add a few drops of your favorite essential oil. Aloe vera gel to make it less oily and soothe irritated skin
- Use as a moisturizer on your body and face or add it to a hot bath for a full body treatment!
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Author Bio: Lindsay Sibson |
World Traveler. Writer. Lifestyle Design Enthusiast. Minimalist. Adventurer. |
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