Having a refreshing skincare routine is a must in the summer months. Spearmint oil is one of the most popular and favourite product for many skincare enthusiasts. It’s gaining traction in skincare for its strong blend of cleansing, calming, and antioxidant properties.
Spearmint is believed to be the oldest member of the mint family, with evidence of its use dating back thousands of years. The ancient Egyptians, Greeks, and Romans used spearmint in their cultures and for medicinal purposes. Traditionally, spearmint was used to aid digestion and soothe headaches. Today, science is starting to discover the reasons behind these time-tested practices. Spearmint oil has a refreshing aroma and a surprising number of benefits for your skin.
Benefits of Spearmint Oil for Skincare
Spearmint is a natural source of mentos, the compound that gives mint its characteristic cooling sensation. But menthol isn’t the only player. Spearmint oil also contains other beneficial components like limonene, pinene, and carvone, which contribute to its overall effectiveness.
Here’s how spearmint oil can improve your skincare routine:
- It Gives a Cooling Sensation: Spearmint oil’s refreshing aroma can be a great addition to your morning skincare routine. It can help awaken your senses and leave you feeling refreshed and energised, making it perfect for hot summer days or after a workout.
- It Fights the Fight Against Acne: This oil’s antibacterial and antiseptic properties can help combat acne-causing bacteria. The salicylic acid content further helps unclog pores and reduce inflammation. Together, these abilities promote clearer, smoother skin.
- It Soothes Sunburn Relief: The cooling properties of spearmint oil can provide much-needed relief from sunburn. When used in a diluted form, this oil can help to calm the burning sensation and reduce inflammation.
- It Reduces Oily Skin: Spearmint oil’s astringent properties can help regulate sebum production, making it a great choice for oily skin. It can also help mattify the skin and minimise the appearance of pores.
Uses of Spearmint Oil in Skincare
Spearmint oil can be a great addition to your skincare routine. You can use it in different ways, like:
- Facial Cleansers: Add a drop of spearmint oil to your regular cleanser for an extra cleaning boost. Massage gently into your skin and rinse thoroughly. It will help remove impurities and leave your face feeling refreshed.
- Toners and Mists: Spearmint oil’s cooling and astringent properties make it a perfect addition to toners and mists. A homemade facial mist with spearmint oil can give you a fresh boost throughout your day.
- Moisturisers and Creams: Some people like using a lightweight and cooling moisturiser. If you are one of those people, try looking for products that contain spearmint oil. Its refreshing properties can be soothing during the summer months.
You can also use this oil to spot-treat blemishes. Spearmint oil’s natural antiseptic properties can help fight bacteria that cause breakouts. Dab a small amount of oil directly onto blemishes using a cotton swab.
DIY Skincare Recipes with Spearmint Oil
You can make simple recipes with spearmint oil for your skin at home. These recipes are easy to make and are effective.
- Homemade Facial Mist: Mix 2-3 drops of spearmint oil with a cup of witch hazel extract in a spray bottle. After cleansing your face, spritz this mixture onto your skin to remove any remaining traces of makeup or impurities and to tighten pores.
- DIY Facemask: Mix one tablespoon of honey with one tablespoon of plain yoghurt and add 1-2 drops of spearmint oil. Apply this mask to your face and neck area and leave it on for 12-20 minutes. Rinse thoroughly with warm water. This mask will leave your skin feeling hydrated, refreshed, and energised.
Safety and Precautions
Spearmint oil is generally safe for most people when used topically. However, doing a patch test before using any new product on your skin is always a good idea. To do a patch test, apply a small amount of the oil to the inner forearm and wait 24 hours. If you experience any redness, irritation, or burning, discontinue use.
It’s also important to properly dilute spearmint oil before application. Pregnant women and those taking medication should consult with their doctor before using it. Spearmint oil can react with certain medications, so it is important to be aware of any potential risks.
Conclusion
Spearmint oil has many beneficial effects and can be a versatile addition to your skincare routine. It provides a refreshing cleanse, calms irritation, and promotes a balanced complexion. Instead of harsh chemicals that can harm your skin, use this natural ingredient to get clean, refreshed, and radiant skin.
