It is tough for a person with dry skin to be satisfied with most of the creams/lotions available in the market, and come winter, the skin is only going to get drier and itchier. This might be the right time to perhaps, try your hands at essential oils. These oils are replete with nature’s best and help you not just to fight against the dryness on the skin but also in plummeting stress and helping you to sleep. Here is a list of best essential oils for dry skin:

Chamomile
Chamomile is known to be good for dry cough or sore throat and is usually made as a tea. Chamomile acts as a natural anti-inflammatory and helps the skin to heal when it feels beaten down by the dryness (dead cells) or even by the harsh winter.

Geranium
The astringent qualities of the oil helps in bringing about a balance to your skin. Besides being an anti-inflammatory, it also tones and firms the skin and aids in minimizing redness and irritation.

Ylang Ylang
Hydrating properties of this oil allows the skin to stay nourished. It is also a natural antiseptic; therefore, it keeps you away from any kind of skin-damaging contaminants and protects from premature aging.

Patchouli
As a natural anti-inflammatory, this oil helps with cracked skin and also chapped hands and peeling lips. People with dry skin tend to have rough patches on knees and elbows too. This oil works magic in such areas. It would be a good idea to add jojoba oil to this oil and apply it to any area of the skin that is scarred. Watch the magic in 10 days!

In addition to the above, essential oils like Vanilla, Sandalwood, and Lavender can also be used for dry skin.

How does one go about using essential oil?
Before you get onto using the essential oils right away, ensure that they are diluted as per the instruction given by the manufacturer. Using the oil as is could cause a lot of irritation and also have a drying effect on the skin. These oils have to be mixed with some kind of carrier oil that is plant or vegetable-based. Coconut oil, almond oil, jojoba oil, eucalyptus oil, Ylang Ylang oil, olive oil or rosehip oil are some perfect essential oils. If you prefer using a cream instead of oil on the skin, then shea butter is a good option to mix the oils with.

When to apply and how long to leave it?
Remove your makeup entirely. Apply the diluted essential oil (either in oil form or in cream form) on your face and neck. Let is soak for 30-45 minutes. Wash it with warm water and mild soap. Some people prefer to leave it overnight, which is also a good idea.