Essential Oils To Stimulate Collagen
While walking down the supermarket, have you noticed tons of cream and serum claiming to stimulate collagen production?
Collagen is the latest buzzword in skincare, and rightly so, as it helps your skin retain its youthful appearance while improving its overall quality. But once we hit twenty-something, its production decreases in our body, resulting in sagging, wrinkles, and loss of elasticity.
Of course, you can opt for collagen supplements to encourage collagen synthesis, but such products cost a bomb, and the results aren’t guaranteed. Moreover, they are full of chemicals that might harm your skin in the long run.
So, if you’re looking for natural solutions that can turn back the clock on the skin, essential oils are an excellent alternative to expensive drug-store products. Considering all the options on the market, we’ve curated this guide to tell you about the best essential oils to stimulate collagen production.
Let’s dive in, then!
What Is Collagen And Its Importance?
Did you know that collagen forms 30% of the protein in our body? While being the most abundant protein, collagen is essentially responsible for maintaining skin elasticity structure and keeping it supple and hydrated.
Not only that, but it is also known to strengthen our bones and is responsible for joint cartilage functioning. Oh, and did we mention that there are 16 different types of collagen in the human body, all found in different areas?
While people have started consuming collagen supplements to increase its growth in the body, it leaves an awful taste in the mouth. And when it comes to skincare, you’ll reap more benefits from the topical application than from oral consumption.
That said, we’ll move on to discuss the best essential oils that are well-known for targeting early signs of aging, like wrinkles, fine lines, and dullness, by stimulating collagen production.
Best Essential Oils To Stimulate Collagen Production
For Reducing Fine Lines
Dark spots, moisture loss, and texture changes are some signs of aging and, one of the earliest is the appearance of fine lines around the eyes, on the forehead, and cheeks. So, here are some essential oils that can prevent these signs:
1. Pomegranate Oil
We all know about the healing powers of the pomegranate fruit, but did you know that it also contains anti-aging plant compounds? Packed with Vitamin C, amino acids, and antioxidants, pomegranates are proven to fight free radicals and rejuvenate the skin.
And that’s why pomegranate essential oil [1] is a worthy addition to your skincare routine. While reducing oxidative stress, it also stimulates collagen production and minimizes the appearance of sunspots.
Additionally, since pomegranates are highly anti-inflammatory, they can reduce inflammation when applied to the acne.
2. Ylang-Ylang Oil
If you’ve never heard of ylang-ylang essential oil [2], then you’re not the only one, as most people don’t know about this miraculous product. Initially, it was common in the fragrance industry because of its pleasant scent, but now, it’s mainly found in many cosmetic products.
Derived from the ylang-ylang flower, this essential oil contains antioxidant properties that can promote collagen cell turnover and reveal youthful skin.
Moreover, it offers anti-aging benefits that can aid skin renewal while reducing free radical damage. Because of its potency, ylang-ylang is one of the most popularly used ingredients in the cosmetic industry.
3. Rose Essential Oil
You likely already know that rose oil [3] offers a plethora of skin benefits, thanks to its anti-acne and anti-aging properties. It has anti-inflammatory properties and locks in moisture while fighting free radicals responsible for signs of aging.
Moreover, this beauty elixir hydrates the skin well and promotes collagen cell growth, so your skin appears healthy.
Besides topical applications, there are plenty of ways to use this potent oil. You can add a few drops to your bath water and relax after a hectic day. Also, you can dilute it with your favorite facial oil and apply it daily before bedtime.
Best Essential Oils For Reducing Wrinkles And Tackling Dry Skin
You’re already 30 and still haven’t added anti-wrinkle products to your night regime? If that’s the case, it’s time to shell out big bucks and add a top-notch anti-wrinkle solution.
By the late twenties, our skin produces less collagen, leading to the appearance of wrinkles. However, using essential oils daily can delay the signs of aging, and you can have youthful, plump, and radiant skin.
Here are some best essential oils that are known to boost collagen, so let’s check them out.
1. Geranium Essential Oil
Arguably one of the best options on the list, geranium essential oil [4] comes from the leaves of Pelargonium graveolens and is known to carry a plethora of health benefits.
One of the reasons why this oil has exploded in popularity in the cosmetic industry is because of its pleasant floral scent. Besides, it has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antiseptic properties, making it an excellent choice for reducing inflammation.
When applied topically, it boosts collagen production and targets dry skin prone to aging. Also, it has antifungal and antibacterial properties, which makes it an excellent alternative to anti-aging treatments.
2. Lemon Essential Oil
Lemon essential oil [5] is a skincare hero and for a good reason as it’s loaded with detoxifying, antiseptic, and anti-fungal properties. While its citrusy scent has made it quite popular in the beauty industry, it offers plenty of benefits to the skin.
Well-known for reducing free radicals, this essential oil prevents premature skin aging and brightens the complexion. Though it makes up for an excellent post-wash toner, make sure not to use it undiluted, or it can cause irritation. Simply mix a few drops of this essential oil with any carrier oil (jojoba or olive oil) and apply it to your face.
3. Carrot Seed Essential Oil
Let’s not forget that slowing collagen breakdown deserves as much attention as boosting collagen. That’s when carrot seed oil [6] enters the picture, which is loaded with Vitamin A and is well-known for fighting skin aging by slowing collagen breakdown.
Thanks to the antioxidants, it stabilizes free radicals and repairs skin cells and tissues. Not only that, but it also improves skin health and prevents skin aging. And the best part? With regular usage, the product can make your skin appear fresher and radiant, making it one of the best essential oils you can get hold of.
4. Calendula Essential Oil
From dryness to inflammation, calendula essential oil [7] can treat almost anything, which is why it is popularly used in ointments and salves. This oil is often lauded for its soothing effects, so it is excellent for treating inflammation. Since inflammation results in collagen degradation, using it will boost skin elasticity.
What’s more, it is packed with flavonoids that act as powerful antioxidants and work to protect the skin against free radical damage. It also improves cell turnover, and as a result, you’ll have a more radiant, youthful, and healthy complexion, making it an excellent anti-wrinkle face oil.
5. Neroli Essential Oil
This essential oil can be your secret weapon in the journey to youthful and healthy skin. Thanks to the cytophylactic properties, it regenerates skin cells and helps rebuild elasticity.
Derived from the flower of the bitter orange tree [8], it has a sweet scent with some spicy notes. Besides, it has anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial, and anti-fungal properties, so it may come in handy for your fight against acne.
Regular application may prevent acne and revitalize dull skin while also improving complexion and tightening the skin. Since it’s packed with Vitamin C, it works to boost collagen production, so it is a great choice for everyone in their late 20s or early 30s.
6. Frankincense Essential Oil
Here’s another essential oil that is brimming with anti-aging properties and will prove useful for combating the early signs of aging. Often known as the “king of essential oils,” frankincense [9] rejuvenates the skin by slowing down and ceasing the damage caused by free radicals.
Much like the previous oil, it has cytophylactic properties, so it may encourage new cell growth while protecting the existing ones from damage.
Besides enhancing collagen production, it tones and tightens sagging skin while improving complexion. This strong anti-aging player reduces discoloration, making it a boon for those with uneven skin tone.
The best way to use this oil is in combination with Myrrh essential oil to boost hydration and reduce wrinkles.
Best Carrier Oils That You Can Pair With These Essential Oils
It’s a well-known fact that essential oils should not be applied directly to the skin or hair as they are highly concentrated and can cause irritation or burning sensations. That’s because they are highly potent and contain powerful ingredients that can trigger allergies.
To simplify things for you, we’ve mentioned some of our favorite carrier oils that can be used with these essential oils:
- Hemp seed oil
- Avocado oil
- Almond oil
- Coconut oil
- Jojoba oil
- Argan oil
- Grapeseed oil
- Vitamin E oil
- Evening primrose
How To Use Essential Oils To Stimulate Collagen
What’s great about using essential oils to combat wrinkles, fine lines, early signs of aging, and stimulating collagen is that you can make your serum, mask, cream, and oil yourself. This means you can tackle anti-aging issues without spending a fortune on expensive products.
On that note, we’ve added some DIY recipes that you can use to kickstart your journey to anti-aging and youthful skin.
1. Wrinkle-Release Cream
One of our favorite DIY blends, a wrinkle release cream, works wonders for tackling the early signs of aging. Instead of spending money on high-end anti-wrinkle products, try this DIY recipe to have youthful skin.
Ingredients
- Half cup apricot kernel oil
- Two drops of rosemary essential oil
- Two drops of lemon essential oil
- Five drops carrot seed essential oil
- Two drops of rose essential oil
- Five drops of sandalwood essential oil
Preparation Method
Kickstarting with one of the most effective DIY recipes – simply add the aforementioned ingredients in a small bowl and mix it well. Next, take a pea-size amount, warm it between your palms and press it all over your face. Since it doesn’t contain lemon essential oil, you can use it twice daily.
2. Anti-Wrinkle Face Oil
For all those who suffer from dry skin and prefer facial oil rather than cream, this anti-wrinkle face oil is an excellent option for preventing wrinkles. Regular usage can decrease the appearance of wrinkles while boosting collagen production.
Ingredients
- One-ounce rosehip oil
- Three drops of frankincense essential oil
- Three drops of geranium essential oil
Preparation Method
Simply take the ingredients on your palms, warm them for a few seconds, and pat the mixture on your face, particularly on those areas that are prone to wrinkles. For best results, make sure you apply it before bedtime.
3. Tightening Balm
If you’re looking for a DIY way to tackle sagging skin, this tightening balm can do wonders. Loaded with all-natural ingredients, it will stimulate collagen production, thereby improving your appearance.
Ingredients
- Two tablespoon coconut oil
- Two drops of lemon essential oil
- Two drops of calendula essential oil
- Two drops of ylang-ylang essential oil
- Two drops of pomegranate essential oil
- Four drops carrot seed essential oil
- Half cup shea butter
Preparation Method
First off, take coconut oil and shea butter in a double boiler, melt it, and after that, add essential oils. When the mixture cools, whip until it’s thick, pour it into a glass jar, and your tightening balm will be ready for application.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Does Lavender Essential Oil Help In Stimulating Collagen?
Yes, lavender essential oil stimulates collagen and promotes cell turnover. However, applying too much can cause dehydration, so make sure you use it in moderate amounts.
2. Can I Use Essential Oils With Other Skincare Products?
Yes, you can do so; however, make sure you dilute it with a carrier oil first and then use it alongside your other skincare products.
Final Words
It can’t be denied that essential oils are invaluable skincare ingredients that you can use to tackle signs of aging and boost collagen production.
However, they aren’t magic elixirs that will show instantaneous results, so be patient while using them. Not to forget, make sure you do a patch test on your inner forearm before use.
With that, we’ll call it a day; hopefully, you enjoyed reading our guide as much as we loved curating it. Until next time!
References:
[2] https://www.healthline.com/health/ylang-ylang
[3] https://www.healthline.com/health/rose-oil
[5] https://www.healthline.com/health/lemon-essential-oil
[6] https://www.healthline.com/health/carrot-seed-oil
[8] https://www.netmeds.com/health-library/post/5-healing-benefits-of-neroli-oil