Benefits of Neem Oil for a Clear, Radiant Complexion

Neem oil is extracted from the seeds of the tropical neem tree, also known as Indian lilac or margosa. Since ancient times, neem oil has been used to treat many conditions and has been used in many Ayurvedic medicines. Although the oil has a harsh odor, it is high in fatty acids and other nutrients. You will find neem oil in a variety of beauty products, particularly skincare products like creams, body lotions, and cosmetics.

Beneficial in beauty regimens and skin care 

Neem oil contains many compounds that are extremely effective for the skin. Some of these ingredients include fatty acids (EFA), limonoids, vitamin E, antioxidants, calcium, and others.

Neem oil has been used in beauty regimens and skin care to treat many types of skin problems including dry skin and wrinkles. Neem oil is beneficial in stimulating collagen production and reducing scars. The oil is also known to heal wounds, treat acne, and minimize warts and moles. Neem oil may also be beneficial in treating the symptoms of psoriasis, eczema, and other disorders of the skin.

How to use neem oil for skin care—do-it-yourself

Pure, organic, cold-pressed neem oil is cloudy and yellowish in color. It has a strong odor that resembles mustard, or garlic. It needs to be stored in a cool, dark place.

Before any kind of skincare, particularly when you are using it on your face, you need to do a patch test on your arm. If you do not develop any rashes or signs of any kind of allergic reaction within 24 hours, then it is safe to use the oil on any part of the body.

Acne, fungal infections, warts, or moles: To treat acne, fungal infections, warts, or moles, you can use undiluted neem oil directly on the spot and affected areas. Neem oil contains aspirin-like substances that help to calm inflammation and redness associated with acne. The aspirin-like substances help to fight the bacteria. 

How to use neem oil?

Take a little neem oil dip a cotton swab or a cotton ball in it and lightly dab it onto the area you want to treat. Place the cotton ball on the affected area and let it soak in for up to 20 minutes. Then wash off the oil with warm water. Repeat this process daily till you achieve the desired results.

When applying on sensitive skin: If you want to use neem oil on a larger area of the face or body, or on any sensitive skin, it is best to mix it with equal parts of carrier oil like coconut oil. This is because of the potency of neem oil. The carrier oil also helps to subdue the pungent odor of neem oil. You can also add a few drops of lavender oil for a better smell. Mix the oils thoroughly and use them the same way you apply moisturizer on your face and body.

To make it less oily: If you have oily skin and want to avoid too much of oil, then instead of the oil combination, you can add Aloe vera gel with a few drops of neem oil. Aloe vera is also a soothing agent and is beneficial for skin care. 

For anti-aging treatment: The essential fatty acids present in neem oil ensure that it is absorbed deep into the epidermal layers and deeply moisturize the skin. The oil also helps cell turnover and increases elasticity. The carotenoid and vitamin E present in the oil have effective antioxidant action, and the moisturizing triglycerides present in the oil help to reduce premature signs of aging skin. When used regularly, it stimulates collagen production. For this, you can use pure neem oil added with a little organic jojoba oil, and a few drops of pure lavender essential oil. Apply it as a moisturizer on your skin every day.

For dry and scaly skin conditions: When due to eczema, psoriasis, or dermatitis the skin becomes dry, rough, and scaly, neem oil comes in handy to treat these conditions. Neem oil is a great emollient, which is beneficial for these conditions. The oil is also loaded with anti-inflammatory properties like the antioxidant quercetin. This ingredient is also a natural antihistamine that works wonders on dry skin. Use pure neem oil directly on the dry skin, but after a patch test. Use it regularly for fast results.